BOOKS, EBOOKS & GAMES
  2009                     SORT A to Z Key: hc=hard cover, pb=paperback, bb=board book,
sp=Spanish editiion available, * =awards
 

I SPY A TO Z
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 2009, hc, sp
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2009

"Easy-to-read riddles by Jean Marzollo are paired with forty-six object filled photographs by Walter Wick to create the most engaging alphabet book ever! Young readers can use the simple picture clues to recognize the letter and letter-sound featured on each page." AMAZON

Why I Wrote This Book

I Spy A to Z Cover
 

In 1776
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Steve Björkman
Scholastic Paperback 2009

"In 1776 deserves a place on most library shelves".
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

"Marzollo has created an introductory book to help young children understand important events that helped shape American history. The American Revolution and the signing of the Declaration of Independence are told with a blend of lively rhyme enhanced by Bjorkman's colorful illustrations”
AMERICAN BOOKSELLER

“Marzollo stresses that the winning of the Revolution was a great victory for the colonists, but the greater deed, at that time in history, was the drafting of the Declaration on Independence. This is how democracy was born That it is an ongoing process is explained in the stirring introduction by Barry O'Connell, professor of English and American Studies at Amherst College in Massachusetts.”

SUNDAY HERALD (Monterey, CA)"In 1776 should fill the gap with a simplified explanation of the American Revolution, the Declaration of Independence, and the education of our first President. Wow! All that in a thin picture book. For its intended audience, the brief rhyming text and two-page illustrations tell just enough to introduce children to the history behind our Fourth of July celebrations."
LIBRARY TALK

Why I Wrote This Book

In 1776 Cover

 

 

Earth Prayer Rap
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Jean Marzollo

Music by Stacy & Art Labriola
Performed by Stacy Labriola & kids


PLAY NOW FOR FREE!
 

I SPY Little Hearts
board book
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 2009 bb

 

Close Your Eyes
Online musical version of
1978 ALA Notable
picture book
Text by Jean Marzollo
Illustrations by Susan Jeffers

"The most interesting and original picture book to be published in some time...brilliant...remarkable...truly charming."
THE NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW 1978


PLAY NOW FOR FREE!
 

I SPY Super/Extreme Challenger
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 2009

Available through
Scholastic Book Fairs

 

 

     
  2008  
 

Ten Little Christmas Presents
Written and Illustrated
by Jean Marzollo
Scholastic Cartwheel 2008 hc

"This nicely designed picture book offers playful opportunities for counting gifts and matching pictures." BOOKLIST

 

Monsters for Sale
An online, interactive math ebook
featuring Teddy Bear
and Greenie the Troll
Story by Jean Marzollo
and Claudio Marzollo
Illustrations by Jean Marzollo

monsters for sale
PLAY NOW FOR FREE!
  Castle Crash!
An online, interactive math ebook
featuring Teddy Bear
and Greenie the Troll
Story by Jean Marzollo
and Claudio Marzollo
Illustrations by Jean Marzollo
Castle Crash
PLAY NOW FOR FREE!
     
  2007  
 

I SPY Phonics Fun
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 2007 box set of 12 pb books,
16 flash cards, and parent letter
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award 2008

 

  I SPY MERRY CHRISTMAS
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
2 Books in One:
I SPY a Candy Cane and
I SPY Santa Claus
Scholastic Reader Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 2007 PB

     
  2006  
  I SPY a Butterfly
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Reader Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 2006 pb
  I SPY a Balloon
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Reader Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 2006 pb
 

Let's Go, Pegasus!
Retold and illustrated by Jean Marzollo
Little, Brown 2006 hc
"Colorful and inviting. Different fonts enable readers to distinguish between narration and dialogue....This introduction to Greek mythology will be a storytime favorite." SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

 

Pandora's Box
Retold and illustrated by Jean Marzollo
Little, Brown 2006 hc
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2007
"A truly modern retelling....themes of curiosity, appreciation, hope, and hardship are successfully broken down for young readers."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

Pandora's Box
  2005  
 

Little Bear, You're a Star!
Retold and illustrated by
Jean Marzollo
Little Brown 2005 hc
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2006
"A welcome addition to most libraries. SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL
"A wonderful book...which retells the ancient Greek myth of the constellations."
SOCIALSTUDIESFORKIDS.COM

 

I SPY a Pumpkin
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Reader Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 2005 pb

  I SPY Santa Claus
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Reader Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 2005 pb
 

Ruth and Naomi
A Bible story retold and illustrated by Jean Marzollo
Little, Brown 2004 hc
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Best Book Award
*Sydney Taylor Honor Book

"Kids will enjoy acting out the various roles and talking about the moral issues, then and now."
BOOKLIST
"Lively, interesting, and easy to understand."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

 

I SPY Lightning in the Sky
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Reader Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 2005

"The I SPY formula continues to draw eager fans, and the closing pages, which group objects by letter, will certainly appeal to the newest readers."
BOOKLIST

  I SPY a Penguin
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Reader Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 2005
     
  2004
  Ten Little Eggs
Written and illustrated
by Jean Marzollo
Harper Festival 2004 hc
*Best Counting Book
BabyZone (BabyZone.com)
 

Shanna's Party Surprise
Shanna's First Reader, Level 1 pb
by Jean Marzollo
Jump at the Sun, Hyperion 2004
Based on art by Shane W. Evans
Illustrated by Maryn Roos

"This book serves as a review of colors, shapes, and numbers...and concludes with a simple game...best suited to sharing aloud."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

  Shanna's Animal Riddles
Shanna's First Reader, Level 1 pb
by Jean Marzollo
Jump at the Sun, Hyperion 2004
Based on art by Shane W. Evans
Illustrated by Maryn Roos
 

Shanna's Hip, Hop, Hooray!
Shanna's First Reader, Level 1 pb
by Jean Marzollo
Jump at the Sun, Hyperion 2004
Based on art by Shane W. Evans
Illustrated by Maryn Roos

"Rhyme, rhythm, phonics, and plenty of fun, all the while teaching young readers important skills."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

 

Shanna's Bear Hunt
Shanna's First Reader, Level 1 pb
by Jean Marzollo
Jump at the Sun, Hyperion 2004
Based on art by Shane W. Evans
Illustrated by Maryn Roos
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2005

"Inviting full-color illustrations with text that's full of dialogue, rhythm, and repetition that will draw in early readers." BOOKLIST

 

Shanna's Pizza Parlor
Shanna's First Reader, Level 1 pb
by Jean Marzollo
Jump at the Sun, Hyperion 2004
Based on art by Shane W. Evans
Illustrated by Maryn Roos

Shanna's Pizza Parlor
 

Shanna's Lost Shoe
Shanna's First Reader, Level 1 pb
by Jean Marzollo
Jump at the Sun, Hyperion 2004
Based on art by Shane W. Evans
Illustrated by Maryn Roos

Shanna's Lost Shoe
  I SPY a Candy Cane
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Reader Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 2004 pb
 

I SPY a Scary Monster
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Reader Level 1 Scholastic Cartwheel 2004 pb

 

David and Goliath
A Bible story retold and illustrated by Jean Marzollo
Little Brown 2004 hc
*Sydney Taylor Notable Book

David and Goliath
  Jonah and the Whale (and the Worm)
A Bible story retold and illustrated by Jean Marzollo
Little, Brown 2004 hc
*Sydney Taylor Notable Book
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2005
   
  2003
 

I SPY Ultimate Challenger!
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 2003 hc

"Turn the page and try sharpening your powers of observation and using your noodle. Good luck!"
CHILDRENS DIGEST

 

 

Daniel in the Lions' Den
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2004
*Sydney Taylor Honor Book
*Koret Jewish Book Award Finalist

A Bible story retold and illustrated by Jean Marzollo
Little Brown 2004 hc

 

Miriam and Her Brother Moses
A Bible story retold and illustrated by Jean Marzollo
Little Brown 2004 hc
*Sydney Taylor Notable Book
"Written and illustrated with great charm while remaining true to the text. Adding humorous dimension to the story is a border of fish, whose questions and comments are similar to those of little children."
ASSOCIATION OF JEWISH LIBRARIES
"Valuable and meaningful."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

 

Now in Paperback!
Shanna's Princess Show
picture book pb
Shanna's Doctor Show
picture book pb
Shanna's Teacher Show
picture book pb
Shanna's Ballerina Show

picture book
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Shane W. Evans
Hyperion Jump at the Sun
2003

Shanna
  I SPY a School Bus
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Reader Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 2003 pb
 

I SPY a Dinosaurs Eye
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Reader Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 2003 pb

  I SPY Funny Teeth
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Reader Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 2003 pb
 

Mama Mama / Papa Papa flip board book
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Laura Regan
Harper Collins 2003 bb
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2004
*Featured on the Today Show"

"Sure to enchant very young readers. The book works in an unusual--and very charming--way. If you read "Mama Mama," you hold the book right side up. To read "Papa Papa," you have to turn it upside down."
TIMES HERALD RECORD

   
  2002
 

Baby's Alphabet
by Jean Marzollo
Photos by Nancy Sheehan
Roaring Brook Press 2002 hc

"The handsize volume features a multicultural cast in crisp, clear snapshots."
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

 

I See a Star: A Christmas Rebus Story
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Suse MacDonald
Scholastic Cartwheel 2002 hc
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2003
"A bit of fun for those who enjoy word games." BOOKLIST

 

Shanna's Teacher Show
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Shane W. Evans
picture book
Hyperion Jump at the Sun 2002 hc, 2003 pb

"The spunky African-American heroine takes on a new role in Shanna's Teacher Show." PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

Shanna's Teacher Show
 

Shanna's Ballerina Show
by Jean Marzollo
I
llustrated by Shane W. Evans
Hyperion Jump at the Sun 2002 hc

"The empowering Shanna Show books, written by early childhood expert Jean Marzollo, are ideal tools for children who are discovering the joys of reading on their own. Preschoolers can easily link Shanna's visual clues witih each occupation she acts out, making learning so much fun!"
HYPERION

   
  2001
 

I SPY Year-Round Challenger!
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 2001 hc
*New York Times Best Sellers List
"These large, highly detailed photos are paired with new rhymes that challenge children to look and find different objects from the orignal offerings that are perhaps more difficult to spot. In an appended section, Marzollo shows children how to create their own riddle rhymes, pointing out ways to recreate the rhythm."
BOOKLIST

 

 

 

Shanna's Princess Show
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Shane W. Evans
Hyperion Jump at the Sun 2001
hc
*An OPRAH Recommended Book
"This dark-skinned tyke...will inspire young children to develop self-esteem, creativity, storytelling and problem-solving skills."
ATLANTA PARENT

Shanna's Princess Show
 

Shanna's Doctor Show
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Shane W. Evans
Hyperion Jump at the Sun 2001
hc
"Storytelling magic."
KIDS' HOME LIBRARY

Shanna's Doctor Show
 

I SPY Little Bunnies
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 2001 bb

"Tiny tots will love the satisfaction of Spying a whole array of toy bunnies and other intriguing items in this cute addition to Jean Marzollo and Walter Wick's popular "I SPY" series."
AMAZON.COM

 

I Am Planet Earth
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Judith Moffatt
Hello Science reader, Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 2001 pb
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2003

I am Planet Earth
   
  2000
 

I SPY Extreme Challenger
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 2000 hc
*New York time Best Sellers list
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2001
"Children will have so much fun "I Spying," they won't even realize they're developing their visual discrimination ability, as well as their reading and vocabulary skills!" AMAZON.COM

 

I SPY Extreme Challenger
 

Papa Papa
by Jean Marzollo
llustrated by Laura Regan
Harper Growing Tree 2000 bb

"I loved writing this books for fathers to read to their babies and toddlers. I'm so glad that Harper selected Laura Regan to illustrate it and so happy that Harper republished it with Mama Mama to make one flip book called Mama Mama/Papa Papa."
JEAN MARZOLLO

 

I SPY Little Letters
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 2000 bb

"Jean Marzollo and Walter Wick team up yet again for another perfect little "I SPY" picture book. Kids...can practice their ABC's with Wick's special photo illustrations and Marzollo's clever alphabetical rhymes."
AMAZON.COM

 

I Love You: A Rebus Book
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Suse MacDonald
Scholastic Cartwheel 2000 hc
*Featured on The Today Show
"A simple, happy poem for the very young...new readers can easily master the simple text while non-readers are given plenty of visual clues to assist them."
KIRKUS REVIEWS
"Marzollo's natural instincts for preschoolers' view of the world is in evidence."
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

 

I Am a Star
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Judith Moffatt
Hello Science Reader, Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 200 pb
Excerpt:
You can see stars
on a clear night.
Long ago, people
saw pictures in the stars....
Some people saw bears.
Some people saw dippers.

Jean Marzollo

I am a Star
   
  1999
 

I SPY Treasure Hunt
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel Fall 1999 hc
*Publishers Weekly Children's Bestsellers List
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2000

"Marzollo's structured rhymes provide the clues while Wick's stunningly detailed miniature village provides the hidden answers for readers to seek out."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

Why I Wrote This Book

 

I SPY Little Christmas
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 1999 bb
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2000

"The award-winning team of wordsmith Jean Marzollo and photographer Walter Wick maintains a perfect balance of simple text and engaging, colorful images."
AMAZON.COM

I SPY Little Christmas
 

Mama Mama
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Laura Regan
Harper Growing Tree 1999 bb
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award 2001
*Featured on the Today Show 2000

"Softly colored double-page spreads feature realistic-looking animal mothers...and their babies, while simple four-line rhymes celebrate the love and care they give them.
LIBRARY JOURNAL

 

Thanksgiving Cats
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Hans Wilhelm
Scholastic Cartwheel 1999 pb

Excerpt:
Farmer cats grow wheat,
potatoes, corn, and peas.
Farmer cats grow pumpkins,
and leafy apple trees.
Farmer cats raise cows
for butter, milk, and cheese.
Farmer kittens chasing
noisy birds and bees!

Jean Marzollo

Thanksgiving Cats
 

I SPY Little Numbers
by Jean Marzollo
Photograph by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 1999 bb
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 2000

"This little book is a fun visual perception game that's also fun for developing language, too."
OPPENHEIM TOY PORTFOLIO REVIEW

I SPY Little Numbers
 

Baseball Brothers
by Jean, Dan, and Dave Marzollo
Illustrated by True Kelley
Hello Reader Level 3
Scholastic Cartwheel Fall 1999 pb

"Full-color cartoon illustrations and vocabularies suitable for children learning to read."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

Baseball Brothers
   
  1998 
 

I SPY Gold Challenger
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel Fall 1998 hc
*Publishers Weekly Children's Bestsellers List
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 1999

"An enjoyable puzzle for determined eyes and brains."
BOOKLIST

 

 

I SPY Little Wheels
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel Fall 1998 bb

*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award 1999

"Even the youngest children can join in the 'I SPY' fun."
CREATIVE TOYMAKER

I SPY Little Wheels
 

I SPY Little Animals
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 1998 bb

"Adapted from the popular series for older children, this version is just right for toddlers."
SCHOLASTIC PARENT & CHILD

I SPY Little Animals
 

Do You Know New?
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Mari Takabayashi
Harper Growing Tree 1998 bb

"The book is fun to read aloud, and the illustrations are welcoming in their rounded simplicity and comforting pastel colors."
KIRKUS REVIEWS

 

I Am a Leaf
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Judith Moffatt
Hello Science Reader, Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel Fall 1998 pb

Excerpt:
Red! Yellow! Orange!
It's party time!
All the leaves in my tree
are turning colors.
People
ooh and aah.
Jean Marzollo

 

I Am Snow
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Judith Moffatt
Hello Science Reader, Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel Fall 1998 pb

Excerpt:
I am snow.
I fall gently, gently, gently.
I am a million,
billion, trillion
snowflakes
all piled up.

Jean Marzollo


I am Snow
 

I Am a Rock
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Judith Moffatt
Hello Science Reader, Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 1998 pb

*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award 2004

"The entertaining idea and the appealing pictures make this entry in the Hello Reader! Series a fine choice for readers who have an interest in science."
BOOKLIST

I am a Rock
 

Basketball Buddies
by Jean Marzollo and Dan Marzollo
Illustrated by True Kelley
Hello Reader Level 3, gr. 1-2
Scholastic Cartwheel Fall 1998 pb

"Everything is right about this easy reader--the simple yet realistic illustrations add color to each page and depict a female referee, an African-American male coach, and ethnically diverse teams of boys and girls. There are no losers, no miracle cures, just good sportsmanship and honest practice."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

 

Hockey Hero
by Jean Marzollo and Dan Marzollo
Illustrated by True Kelley
Hello Reader Level 3, gr. 1-2
Scholastic Cartwheel 1998 pb

Excerpt:
The Penguins were passing the puck back and forth down the ice. The Penguins scored. The score was now Penguins 2, Flyers 0.
"I don't believe this," said Hal to himself. "Our goalie stinks. Joey stinks. And I stink worst of all."
Jean Marzollo and Dan Marzollo

 

Close Your Eyes
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Susan Jeffers
Picture Puffins 1998 pb
*ALA Notable Book 1978
*Junior Literary Guild Selection 1978

"a beautiful and valuable book"
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
"This marvelous book is packed full of imaginative dreamland scenes where only children have the vision to enter. If you're a sleepy toddler, this is the book to make your dreams really come true. It is lovely, warm, and positive."
PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER
(You'll find more reviews with the 1978 hardcover.)

 

How Kids Grow
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Nancy Sheehan
Scholastic Cartwheel Fall 1998 pb

Excerpt:
James is three days old.
Even though he is a baby,
he can do many things.
Once he falls asleep,
he is a very good sleeper.

Jean Marzollo

   
  1997 
 

I SPY Super Challenger
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel Fall 1997 hc
*Publishers Weekly Bestsellers List
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award 1998

"Marzollo's cleverly written new rhyming couplets encourage readers to seek a new batch of items. Just as Marzollo created new riddles for this book, children are invited to create more rhymes and riddles of their own based on the pictures."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

 

I SPY Super Challenger
 

I SPY Little Book
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 1997 bb
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award 1998
"Ideal material for getting a 2- or 3-year-old through a restaurant meal."
AMAZON.COM

 

Home Sweet Home
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Ashley Wolff
HarperCollins Spring 1997 hc, pb
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award 1998
"A lovely, tender poem that extols nature's wonders, calling for blessings upon many things."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL
"Marzollo's beautiful poem celebrates the nature of home and its various incarnations."
MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW
"A lovely choice for story hours or sharing one-on-one."
BOOKLIST

Home Sweet Home
 

Sun Song
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Laura Regan
HarperCollins 1997 hc, pb
*American Bookseller Pick of the Year
"The gentle rhythm and sing-song quality make this verse a good bedtime book for beginning readers."
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

Sun Song
 

Pretend You’re a Cat
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
Dial 1997, pb
*Parenting Magazine Certificate of Excellence 1990
*Publishers Weekly Bestsellers List
*American Bookseller Pick of the Lists, 1990

"An unusually lively rendition with superior illustrations."
KIRKUS REVEWS
"This clever concept book consists of a series of 13 small poems that ask youngsters to pretend they are animals...The rhymed verses are vivid and straightforward, and PInkney's inventive watercolor and pencil drawings are as engaging as the characters and animals he portrays."
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

 

Christmas Cats
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Hans Wilhelm
Scholastic Cartwheel 1997 pb

"The words in this book rhyme, and average about eight words per page, making this a very simple first Christmas reader for your little boy or girl."
PRESCHOOL EDUCATION LIBRARY

 

I'm a Caterpillar
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Judith Moffatt
Hello Science Reader, Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 1997 pb, sp
*Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award 1998

"The upbeat tempo has a mesmerizing effect...combined with a touch of whimsy...The full-page illustrations that accompany the refrain are particularly endearing."
KIRKUS REVIEWS

I'm a Caterpillar
 

I Am an Apple
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Judith Moffatt
Hello Science Reader, Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 1997 pb

"This series entry presents a science concept in a simple, straightforward way. When you use it in story hour, have some apples ready for munching."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

 

Once Upon a Springtime
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Jacqueline Rogers
Hello Reader Level 2
Scholastic Cartwheel 1997 pb

"Simple, straightforward writing and soft-edged watercolor paintings make this an appealing choice for young readers."
BOOKLIST

Once Upon a Springtime
 

Soccer Cousins
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Irene Trivas
Hello Reader Level 4
Scholastic Cartwheel 1997

"The colorful illustrations and a few Spanish words interspersed in the narrative add a most authentic Mexican feeling to this story that all children will enjoy."
BOOK LINKS

 

Football Friends
by Jean, Dan and Dave Marzollo
Illustrated by True Kelley
Hello Reader Level 3
Scholastic Cartwheel 1997

"The story...has an appealing sports backdrop as well as a valuable message that's perfect for the age group."
BOOKLIST
"Football Friends will be particiularly popular where football reins supreme."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

 

   
  1996 
 

I SPY Spooky Night
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel Fall 1996 hc
*Publishers Weekly Bestsellers List
"Another brilliant collaboration by this incredibly innovative due...This book is fun for a wide range of anges, as the picture riddles vary in difficulty and sophistication. A must, in multiple copies, for any Halloween collection."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL
"The book will be ideal for encouraging reluctant readers or children who have reading disabilities."
BOOKLIST

Why I Wrote This Book

I SPY Spooky Night
 

I’m a Seed
by Jean Marzollo
Hello Science Reader, Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 1996 pb

"A simple, yet imaginative discussion between a marigold seed and a pumpkin seed. Judith Moffatt's striking collage illustrations add another layer of clarity to the tale."
BOOKPAGE

Im a seed
  I Am Water
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Judith Moffatt
Hello Science Reader, Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 1996 pb, sp
*Booklist, starred review 9/15/96
"Marzollo celebrates water in all its forms in this very basic reader, a pre-primer with one sentence per double-page spread, large type, and plenty of repetition. Both the text and the illustrations are well above average." BOOKLIST
I am Water
 

I Am Fire
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Judith Moffatt
Hello Science Reader, Level 1
Scholastic Cartwheel 1996 pb

Excerpt:
Fire heats your soup.
Fire warms your rooms.
Fire lights your life.
But watch out!
Fire can be harmful.

Jean Marzollo

 

Valentine Cats
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Hans Wilhelm
Scholastic Cartwheel Fall 1996 pb

Excerpt:
Writer cats get ready,
Writer cats start a card,
Writer cats need a message,
Writer cats think hard.
Writer cats find words,
Writer cats write more,
Little kittens catching
Drafts falling to the floor.

Jean Marzollo

   
  1995
 

I SPY School Days
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 1995 hc
*Publishers Weekly, starred review 7/95
*Publishers Weekly Bestsellers List
*American Bookseller Pick of the Lists 8/95
*New York Public Library Best Books of 1995
"By stressing the value of everyday objects, this ingenious volume will encourage readers to look closely at not just the pictures, but at their own surroundings."
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

Why I Wrote This Book

 

Snow Angel
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Jacqueline Rogers
Scholastic Hardcover 1995 hc
*American Bookseller Pick of the Lists 8/95
"A fanciful story that takes flight into a snow-drifted world...A gentle, reassuring story, perfect for a wintry day."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

 

Sun Song
by Jean Marzollo

Illustrated by Laura Regan
HarperCollins 1995 hc
HarperCollins 1997 pb
*American Booksellers Pick of the year
"The gentle rhythm and sing-song quality make this verse a good bedtime book for beginning readers."
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

   
  1994 
 

I SPY Fantasy
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel Fall 1994 hc
*Publishers Weekly Bestsellers List

"Hours of fablulous fun for children to enjoy with a friend or on their own."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL
"A real imagination stretcher"
BOOKLIST

 

Ten Cats Have Hats
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by David McPhail
Scholastic Cartwheel 1994 hc
*Bank Street College annual
"Children’s Books of the Year"

"Marzollo's rhyming text is vivid yet ingeniously simple" PARENTS
"A simple counting book that has great style and charm." PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER
"With its bright watercolor illustrations to complement the clever story, this title could be used to generate a wealth of discussion and/or writing activities."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

 

My First Book of Biographies
Great Men and Women Every
Child Should Know
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Irene Trivas
Scholastic Cartwheel 1994 hc, pb

"The clearly written summaries focus on accomplishments and historical significance. The entries are accompanied by full-page watercolor paintings that successfully capture the spirit of the people."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

 

In 1776
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Steve Björkman
Scholastic Hardcover 1994 hc
*American Bookseller Pick of the Lists 3/94

"'In 1776" deserves a place on most library shelves."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

Why I Wrote This Book

 

Slam Dunk Saturday
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Blanche Sims
A Stepping Stone Book
Random House 1994, pb

Excerpt:
Billy lived with his father and grandfather in an apartment over the pizza parlor. Nonno used to live there alone. But when Billy's parents divorced, Billy and his dad moved in, too. There wasn't much room--just a kitchen, a living room, and two bedrooms. At first Billy and his dad had shared a bedroom. But Billy's dad snored too much. After a few weeks, Billy had asked if he could sleep in the kitchen. It was a weird idea, but it made sense. Billy, his father, and his grandfather ate all their meals down in the pizza parlor. No one ever used the kitchen upstairs.
Jean Marzollo

   
  1993 
 

I SPY Mystery
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 1993, hc
*Publishers Weekly, starred review 8/23/93
*Publishers Weekly Bestsellers List
*American Bookseller Pick of the Lists 8/93
*Publishers Weekly’s Best Books of 1993
"Filled with props, the diverse and imaginative 'sets'...should inspire kids to invent their own mysteries and rhymes." BOOKLIST

Why I Wrote This Book

 


I’m Tyrannosaurus!
A Book of Dinosaur Rhymes
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Hans Wilhelm
Scholastic Cartwheel 1993, pb
Excerpt:
Tyrannosaurus Rex
Tie-ran-uh SOR-us REX
"Tyrant Lizard"
I'm Tyrannosaurus!
I've got it made;
With my long, sharp teeth,
I'm never afraid.
Jean Marzollo

 

I SPY Fun House
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 1993, hc
*American Bookseller Pick of the Lists 3/93
*Publishers Weekly, starred review 4/19/93
*Publishers Weekly Bestsellers List
*Publishers Weekly’s Best Books of 1993

"13 more artfully contrived photos with rhyming "riddles" about objects that are not so much hidden as concealed by the bright, distracting diversity of their surroundings." KIRKUS REVIEWS
"Wick's dramatic lighting, his diverse of shadows and his varied backgrounds set new standards for children's photography books, while Marzollo's seemingly straightforward rhymes are marked by wit and subtlety.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
"A challenging, topnotch offering that's more fun than a barrel of monkeys."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

Why I Wrote This Book

 

Happy Birthday, Martin Luther King
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by J. Brian Pinkney
Scholastic Hardcover 1993
hc, pb, sp
*Publishers Weekly Bestsellers List, #1-2/93
Family Circle "1994's Best Toys, Books, Videos: Top "Multicultural Choice"
"Accessible language" combines with "stunning, exquisitely shaded illustrations." PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
"A quiet, poignantly telling book." KIRKUS REVIEWS
"Marzollo and Pinkney offer a simple yet effective look at King's life, focusing on his ability to affect change and bring people together." BOOKLIST
“An eloquent and powerful introduction to the life and death of Martin Luther King, Jr.” Pinkney's scratchboard and oil pastel illustrations convey both the strength and gentleness of King's character. Both text and art carry his central message of peace and brotherhood among all people. This is a good choice for reading aloud.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

   
  1992 
 

I SPY Christmas
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Design by Carol Devine Carson
Scholastic Cartwheel 1992, hc, sp
*Publishers Weekly, starred review 9/7/92
*Parents Magazine, Best Books List
*Publishers Weekly Bestsellers List

"13 scenes of Christmas. Short rhymes challenge kids to find a variety of small objects in the purposefully crowded pictures....Crisp and clear, these striking photos will provide hours of holiday fun." BOOKLIST
"Plenty of fun for the whole family." SEATTLE TIMES

Why I Wrote This Book

 

I SPY: A Book of Picture Riddles
by Jean Marzollo
Photographs by Walter Wick
Scholastic Cartwheel 1992, hc, sp
*New York Public Library Books for Reading and Sharing
*California Children’s Media Award, Honorable Mention

"A wealth of opportunities for education and entertainment. The challenge is surprisingly great. Excellent, sharp photographic work combined with ingenuity and imagination make this well-conceived book a winner."
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
"An appealing book for children and adults to share and enjoy."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

Why I Wrote This Book

 

Halloween Cats
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Hans Wilhelm
Scholastic Cartwheel 1992, pb

"Jean Marzollo's poem, Halloween Cats, is reminiscent of T.S. Eliot's Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats - with just the right scary tempo for young readers."
THE HOUSTON CRONICLE

  The Helping Hands Handbook
How Kids Can Help People, Plants and Animals
by Patricia Adams and Jean Marzollo
Random House 1992, hc, pb
*Child Study Children's Committee Book of the Year Award
The broad range of activities and fund-raising ideas includes collected for or baking cookies to donate to a homeless shelter; making a school lunchroom "dolphin-safe"; or celebrating a holiday with an older person.   Marzollo and Adams present upbeat stories from real kids who have succeeded in making significant contributions." 
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
   
  1991
 

In 1492
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Steve Bjorkman
Scholastic Hardcover 1991
hc, pb, sp
"The tale is surprisingly clear and complete, despite the brief and simple text. And it even manages to be "correct," both politically...and historically. Bjorkman's lighthearted illustrations are top-notch."
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
"
The appealing illustrations, combined with the bouncy blend of rhythm, rhyme, simple history, and celebration, make this a picture book that preschool teachers will ask for every Columbus Day for years to come."
BOOKLIST
"Jean Marzollo, in "In 1492", with fetching illustrations by Steve Bjorkman, tells the Columbus story in an engaging, straightforward way for young readers." THE NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW

   
  1990 
  Pretend You’re a Cat *
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
Dial 1990 hc, Dial 1997 pb
*Parenting Magazine Certificate of Excellence 1990
*Publishers Weekly Bestsellers List, #9-9/90
*American Bookseller Pick of the Lists, 1990
"An unusually lively rendition with superior illustrations."
KIRKUS REVEWS
"This clever concept book consists of a series of 13 small poems that ask youngsters to pretend they are animals...The rhymed verses are vivid and straightforward, and PInkney's inventive watercolor and pencil drawings are as engaging as the characters and animals he portrays."
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

 

39 Kids on the Block
by Jean Marzollo
Scholastic (# 3-6)
chapter book gr. 2-3
Roses are Pink and You Stink #3 1990, pb
The Best Friends Club #4 1990, pb
Chicken Pox Strikes Again #5 1990, pb
My Sister the Blabbermouth #6 1990, pb

"Fans of Giff, Delton, and Adler will welcome Marzollo's appealing neighborhood stories."
BOOKLIST

   
  1989 
 

The Teddy Bear Book
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Ann Schweninger
Dial 1989 hc, pb

"Marzollo adapts 21 familiar rhymes and short poems to a teddy bear world...a clever idea."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL
"Young eyes will delight in finding a variety of teddys romping through the pages...perky illustrations."
BOOKLIST

 

Pizza Pie Slugger
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Blanche Sims
A Stepping Stone Book
Random House 1989 pb

" Marzollo deftly uses baseball and pizza to probe the inner workings of families and friends."
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
"A good choice for reinforcing strong family values."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

 

39 Kids on the Block
by Jean Marzollo
Scholastic (# 1-2)
chapter book gr. 2-3
The Green Ghost of Appleville #1 1989, pb
The Best Present Ever #2 1989 pb

"Fans of Giff, Delton, and Adler will welcome Marzollo's appealing neighborhood stories."
BOOKLIST

 

Baby Unicorn and Baby Dragon
by Jean and Claudio Marzollo
Illustrated by
Kimberly Bulken Root
Scholastic 1989 pb

Excerpt:
"Once upon a time in a magic forest there lived a baby unicorn called Star because of a little white star on her forehead. Star's favorite game was hide-and-seek, which she often played with a baby dragon named Moon."
Jean and Claudio Marzollo

   
  1988 
 

Red Ribbon Rosie
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Blanche Sims
A Stepping Stone Book
Random House 1988 pb

"This generous book lets kids know that it's all right to want to win, and features action-filled illustrations by Sims. Together author and artist offer a simple story, but one in which real emotions are dealt with in ways that ring true, and solutions only come from the heart."
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

   
  1987 
 

Soccer Sam
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Blanche Sims
Step into Reading
Random House 1987 pb
*Reading Rainbow Selection 1990
*Bank Street Child Study Children’s Book List 1988
"A welcome addition to easy-to-read section."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL
"An entertaining light read with simple sentences and lots of appeal"
BOOKLIST
"This short, easy-to-read novella is filled with action, plot twists, and interesting characters."
CHILD

Why I Wrote This Book

 

Cannonball Chris
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Blanche Sims
Random House 1987 pb
*Bank Street Child Study Children’s Book List 1988

"Marzollo uses a simple, but not simplistic, text to provide children with a basic approach to conquering fears by naming them. With guidance and understanding from his father, Chris names his fear of jumping into deep water, "The Underwater Pit." The text flows and will hold the interest of readers who will want to know if Chris succeeds in overcoming his fear."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

 

The Silver Bear
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Susan Meddaugh
Dial 1987 hc

"Two small boys let their imaginations go wild in a summer garden."
PARENTS MAGAZINE
"Come to this tale for the ideas of adventurous B.J. and the somewhat more timid Sam."
CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW SERVICE

 

The Baby Unicorn
by Jean Marzollo and Claudio Marzollo
Illustrated by R.J. Blake
Scholastic 1987 pb

Excerpt:
Long ago in the middle of a dark forest, a baby unicorn was born. Her parents named her Star because she had a mark on her forehead that looked just like a star in the sky.
Jean and Claudio Marzollo

 

Jed and the Space Bandits
by Jean and Claudio Marzollo
Illustrated by Peter Sis
Dial easy-to-read 1987 hc, pb

"A fast-paced story that's a worthy acquisition for the beginning reader."
KIRKUS REVIEWS

   
  1986 
 

The Rebus Treasury
compiled by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Carol Devine Carson
Dial 1986 hc, pb

"Favorite nursery rhymes are retold in rebus form, with Carson's pictures and tinted rubber-stamp impressions."
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

   
  1985 
 

Three Little Kittens
Retold by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Shelley Thornton
Scholastic 1985 pb

"A picture book that will capture the hearts of the 3- to 7-year-old audience."
THE KANSAS CITY STAR

 

Cinderella
Retold by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Shelley Thornton
Scholastic 1985 pb

A "Punch-and-Play Storybook"
with punch-out characters, clothes,
scenes, props and a storage pocket

 

Doll House Christmas
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Shelley Thornton
Scholastic 1985 pb

A "Punch-and-Play Storybook"
with punch-out characters, clothes,
scenes, props and a storage pocket

   
  1984
 


Doll House Adventure
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Shelley Thornton
Scholastic 1984 pb

A "Punch-and-Play Storybook"
with punch-out characters, clothes,
scenes, props and a storage pocket

 

Ruthie’s Rude Friends
by Jean Marzollo
Co-authored with Claudio Marzollo
Illustrated by Susan Meddaugh
Dial easy-to-read 1984 hc, pb

"... a science fiction story, one that will grab kids' attention with its outer space elements and keep them satisfied ...".
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL
"Entertaining beginning reading."
BOOKLIST

 

Blue Sun Ben
by Jean and Claudio Marzollo
Illustrated by Susan Meddaugh
Dial easy-to-read 1984 hc, pb

"A science fiction/myth story that stands apart, in tone and complexity, from the general run of beginning-to-reads.   The language is simple, but it works up a story of action, suspense and substance."  
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL
"... [an] exciting, mysterious world where humans change into animals during the time of the Blue Sun and are themselves during the reign of the Red Sun."
PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY

   
  1983 
 

Baxter Bear’s Bad Day
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Shelley Thornton
Scholastic 1983 pb

A "Punch-and-Play Storybook"
with punch-out characters, clothes,
scenes, props and a storage pocket

 

Do You Love Me, Harvey Burns?
by Jean Marzollo
a
young adult novel
Scholastic 1983

"Lisa ...is one of the few in Young Adult fiction who come across as genuinely intelligent and free of banal deep thoughts. Likewise her family's dinner-table tensions and frictions are uncomfortably accurate and unstereotyped."
KIRKUS REVIEWS

 

Red Sun Girl
by Jean and Claudio Marzollo
Illustrated by Susan Meddaugh
Dial easy-to-read 1983 hc, pb

"A refreshing bite for beginners looking for something beyond bland."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

     
  1982   
 

Papa Bear’s Party
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Shelley Thornton
Scholastic 1982 pb

A "Punch-and-Play Storybook"
with punch-out characters, clothes,
scenes, props and a storage pocket

 

Halfway Down Paddy Lane
by Jean Marzollo
A young adult novel
Scholastic 1981 hc, pb
*ALA Best Book for Young Adults 1981

"Readers will experience the 19th-century family life and mill conditions right along with Kate, and will share her involvement with Patrick to the end."
KIRKUS REVIEWS
"... steep[ed] with drama and romance."
BOOKLIST
"An intriguing tale, with a glimpse of history brought to life as no history book can do."
ST. PETERSBURG TIMES

 

 

Jed’s Junior Space Patrol
by Jean and Claudio Marzollo
Illustrated by David S. Rose
Dial easy-to-read 1982 hc, pb
* Booklist starred review
*ALA Children’s Book of International Interest 1984

"It all hangs together and works at the intended level."KIRKUS REVIEWS

 

Robin of Bray
by Jean and Claudio Marzollo
Illustrated by Diane Stanley
Dial easy-to-read 1982 hc, pb

"Robin of Bray ... tells, in language a beginning reader can handle, a variation of the old tale of a prince who is raised as a commoner, believing he is something special and eventually realizing that belief."
WASHINGTON POST

     
  1981  
 

Uproar on Holler Cat Hill
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Steven Kellog
Dial 1980 hc, pb
* American Bookseller's Best Bets for Children's Books
"Brisk, merry, and filled with the action and humor that delight small children."
BULLETIN OF THE CENTER FOR CHILDREN'S BOOKS
"A cheerful book."
READING TEACHER
"Totally hilarious"
BOOKLIST

 

Amy Goes Fishing
by Jean Marzollo
illustrated by Ann Schweninger
Dial easy-to-read1980 hc, pb
*Reading Rainbow Selection 1990
** Bank Street Child Study Children’s Book List 1988

"It's an experience to feel and to share -- as both text and pictures suggest more than they say about the tenor of the day and the relationship between Amy and her father."
KIRKUS REVIEWS

     
  1978   
  Close Your Eyes
by Jean Marzollo
Illustrated by Susan Jeffers
Dial 1978, 1998 pb
*ALA Notable Book 1978
*Junior Literary Guild Selection 1978
A simple rhyming text expanding on the delights of bedtime suggests the drowsy rhythm of a rocking chair. The text is interpreted in magnificent full-color pastel-toned illustra­tions, remarkable for their clarity, meticulous detail, and delicate line ... the book is a charming production in the old-fashioned tradition of a warm and reassuring bedtime story."
THE HORN BOOK MAGAZINE
"Cleverly written within the fanciful and dreamy illustrations of this bedtime poem/lullaby are a father's comic efforts to ready his young child for bed."
WASHINGTON POST
"Ideal bedtime reading"
PARENTS MAGAZINE
" The soothing rhythm of the text is reinforced by the dreamy pictures that show how worlds of reality and imagination blend for a perfect bedtime or naptime book."
TEACHER
" An enchanting bedtime story for the youngest of children, this book, with its magnificent illustrations, will sustain the interest of older children as well."
THE BOSTON PHOENIX

PLAY NOW FOR FREE!
  * Magazine Publishing Awards
From 1970-1990 I was editor of Scholastic's kindergarten magazine, Let's Find Out. For most of this time, I worked with Carol Devine Carson, art director.
In 1980, 1978 and 1977 the magazine won Ed. Press awards for distinguished achievements in educational journalism.


 

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