Staying Connected in 2009

Books still seem to be a hit in our region during the holidays. I saw evidence of this on a wintry Saturday with my youngest daughter. Earlier this month, she and I hurried into the warmth of Barnes & Noble where the young and old stood in lines with easy smiles that spoke of their satisfaction in beating the night-before-Christmas-rush. I know the feeling and appreciated their purchase. Reading is a privilege here in America.

The children's department wasn't empty. It was an event. There were adults, engaged and connected, sitting down at small tables to turn brightly-colored pages with their little reading buddies. Staying connected and building relationship takes effort. Here are the top 5 children's books for December.

1. The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J.K. Rowling

2. The Last Straw by Jeff Kinney

3. Curious George Paper Dolls by H.A. Rey

4. There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Bell! by Lucille Colandro

5. Wild Flowers by John Green

Darlene and I wish you the best in 2009. Happy New Year.

Jess