Paula Willey

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Cool Backyard Camping: Great Things to Do in the Great Outdoors

Alex KUSKOWSKI | SERIES MADE SIMPLE, Nov 01, 2015

Delightful offerings: readers will be asking for s'more.

Each book provides an inviting introduction to outdoor exploration and recreation. The series offers a range of diversions, focusing on projects associated with the activities, such as glow-stick lanterns (Camping) and a plastic bag compass (Maps). There's not much depth to volumes, but with introductory chapters, materials lists, and step-by-step instructions with photos, these are accessible ways to foster enjoyment of the outdoors. Glos., ind. Review covers these Checkerboard Library: Cool Great Outdoors titles: Cool Birds & Bugs, Cool Maps & Geocaching, Cool Parks & Trails, Cool Backyard Camping, Cool Outdoor Activities, and Cool Outdoor Arts & Crafts.

Cool Cat Projects

Isabel THOMAS | SERIES MADE SIMPLE, Nov 01, 2015

Solid choices for animal lovers, who will enjoy making projects that proclaim their passion.

These books' crafts for dog- and cat-loving kids--some items are treats and toys for pets, others are pet-related items for people--will be lots of fun for those who can follow the steps, which vary in difficulty. Finished products are shown in color photos on unfocused spreads with crafting and pet-care tips in pop-outs. The publisher's website offers additional patterns and templates. Ind. Review covers these Pet Projects titles: Cool Cat Projects and Designer Dog Projects.

Eco Gifts: Upcycled Gifts You Can Make

Mari BOLTE | SERIES MADE SIMPLE, Nov 01, 2015

Possible options for more advanced crafters.

Ideas for creative gift-wrapping opens this volume of homemade projects including edible items, jewelry, home-decorating projects, and more. Lists of supplies, step-by-step instructions, and color photos of some steps in creating final products are included; several projects require unusual ingredients (birthday cakescented fragrance oil) and skills beyond average novice crafters (sewing and using a frosting piping bag). Reading list.

Clay Modeling

Toby REYNOLDS | SERIES MADE SIMPLE, Nov 01, 2015

Skip these titles: there are plenty of other sock puppet fish in the sea.

Composting

Rebecca PETTIFORD | SERIES MADE SIMPLE, Nov 01, 2015

Mouthwatering choices for early readers.

Hair Care Tips & Tricks

Karen Latchana KENNEY | SERIES MADE SIMPLE, Nov 01, 2015

These offerings promote a healthy glow.

These introductions to proper hygiene and grooming also offer recipes for DIY treatments (such as hair masks, skin toner, and foot scrubs) as well as instructions for hairstyles, makeup application, and nail-art manicures. The friendly texts encourage regular maintenance, creativity, and having fun, while the girly, pastel-colored layouts feature illustrations of girls with both light and dark skin. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Style Secrets titles: Nail Care Tips & Tricks, Hair Care Tips and & Tricks, and Skin Care & Makeup Tips & Tricks.

Amazing Recycled Projects You Can Create

Marne VENTURA | SERIES MADE SIMPLE, Nov 01, 2015

Those looking to increase their craft collections should save their budget dollars.

Inexpensive supplies and quirky ideas for projects should attract the attention of middle-grade crafters. Some require skills with a utility knife and hot glue, but they're outlined clearly in stepped directions and adult help is recommended. Attention to detail will result in some awesome items: tin can lanterns and soda tab bracelets, a duct tape wallet and bongo drums, and more. Reading list. Review covers the following Edge Books: Imagine It, Build It titles: Amazing Recycled Projects You Can Create and Incredible Duct Tape Projects You Can Create.