Kit Saves the Day is easily the best book in the Kit series. Kit's Aunt Millie is staying at Kit's house and she has put Kit to work planting and caring for a garden. Kit is doing her chores in the garden one day when a young boy named Will walks into her yard. Aunt Millie sees him and immediatly invites him to join them for supper. Will tells Kit and her friend Stirling about the 'hobo jungle'. When Will leaves, Kit notices that she and Stirling didn't give him any food for his journey! Kit knew that Will would need food, so she and Stirling walk to the hobo jungle. There, they see ragged people with holey clothes and shoes. Kit meets Will's friend Lester. Lester persuades Kit and Stirling to hop a frieght train! The train is stopped because hopping trains is against the law. The police take Kit, Stirling, and Will to jail! Can Kit make it out of jail and save the day? Read this exciting book to find out! You won't be able to put it down!

Kit is sad this summer because her brother Charlie went off to college. One day a hobo named Will came to Kit's house. Will came from Texas. Kit's Mother invites Will to eat dinner with them that night. Will shows Kit and Stirling some hobo signs. Will tells them about the hobo stew. Kit wants to try the hobo stew. He also tells about the hobo jungle. That's where the hobos live. So the next day Kit and Stirling take food to the people who live at the hobo jungle . But while they are there, they learn about jumping rails. They do it and get sent to jail. Kit leans a very valuable lesson. I really liked this story. It shows how much we have to be thankful for. Kit won't be looking for adventure for a little while. This is one of my favorite Kit books ever!

Summer arrives and Kit is as bored as ever. She is very ready for an adventure. It seems the chance comes when a hobo named Will that came from Texas comes to their looking for work and a meal. From Will Kit and Stirling learns about the hobo jungle and the fun and hardships to the hobo life. Hobo life seems very interesting to Kit as she learns from Will about jumping rails from town to town, hobo signals, and many more. Kit is even more interested in the so call "hobo stew"! When will leaves without taking any food for the hobo stew Kit and Stirling set out on a adventure to find the hobo jungle. However Kit got way more then she bargained for and has a great adventure that teaches a lesson. I won't tell you what it is. All I can say is that it includes getting arrested and finally leads up to Kit saving the day! A great addition to the American Girls Collection that all ages will enjoy!!!

This is another one of the American Girls Short Stories series about Josefina Montoya, a nine-year-old girl living in the New Mexico of 1824. Josefina always loved watching her aunt Dolores playing the piano, and when she agrees to teach her how to play Josefina is overjoyed. However, very quickly, her piano lessons turn into drudgery, and Josefina begins to get discouraged. But, through the joy she brings to one listener, Josefina learns about trying again.

The final chapter of this book is a look at life on a New Mexican rancho, plus a quick lesson on a Mexican dance, la vaquerita. As with the other books in this wonderful series, Jean-Paul Tibbles' illustrations are excellently done, complimenting the story throughout.

This is another wonderful addition to the Josefina library. My daughter and I both enjoyed the story for itself, and I like the lesson it taught. My daughter and I both highly recommend this book!

"Again, Josefina" is the second book published in the series of Josefina short stories. The setting of the story takes place shortly after the book "Josefina Learns a Lesson". Josefina is fascinated with Tia Dolores's piano and the wonderful music that Tia Dolores can make with it. Tia Dolores is willing to teach Josefina how to play, but Papa wonders if Josefina will be able to manage it with her chores and school lessons. Josefina persuades him to let her learn how to play the piano, but is quickly a disenchanted learner when she realizes that she must start from the beginning and practice more then she has time to do. When Josefina feels that she is not making progress, she asks Papa if she can quit. Instead of allowing her to quit, Josefina is challenged to find a way to practice. She is a clever child, and she finds a way to practice even when she is not sitting at the piano. Then, she finds her joy in playing the piano and acceptance for herself as a learner when her toddler nephew happily "dances" to her imperfect piano playing. This short story is an excellent tale of the frustration of learning something new, and the value of doing something for pleasure instead of perfection.

"Again, Josefina!" is one of the "American Girls Short Stories" series of books for younger readers. Written by Valerie Tripp and illustrated by Jean-Paul Tibbles, this volume tells a tale about Josefina, who lives with her family on a New Mexico rancho in 1824. Josefina decides to learn to play the piano, but discovers that playing a musical instrument is harder than she expected.

An enjoyable story is nicely complemented by the warm, nicely detailed illustrations. The story is accompanied by a number of enjoyable supplemental features. There is a "Meet the Author" page. Also, "A Peek into the Past" takes a historical look at life in New Mexico in Josefina's time; this supplement is illustrated with reproductions of art and artifacts. "An American Girls Pastime" gives instructions on how to dance la Vaquerita, a traditional dance of New Mexico. Finally, there is a glossary of Spanish words used throughout the book: "cuentos," "rancho," etc. The whole book is about 50 pages long, making it perfect for readers who may not be ready to tackle a full-length novel. Overall, a well-done entry in the series.

This is another one in the American Girls series about Josefina Montoya, a ten-year-old girl living in the New Mexico of 1824 (actually January of 1825). In this book, the Christmas season ends with a successful party. However, just as the new year begins with a high note, Josefina feels the world pulled out from under her when her aunt Dolores announces that she is leaving the rancho and returning to Santa Fe. They are happier with Tia Dolores living with them, and they know that their father is. And so, the sisters begin their scheming...

The final chapter of this wonderful book is a highly informative look at the changes New Mexico experienced as it changed over the years. I must also mention that Jean-Paul Tibbles' lovely illustrations are an excellent addition to the story.

This final book in the Josefina story is every bit as wonderful as the first one, and definitely maintains the American Girls' tradition of excellence. The story is exciting and entertaining, and I especially liked how the author wove Josefina's faith into it, making it appear the natural part of her life that it would have been. My daughter and I loved this book, and we both recommend it to you and your daughter.

Changes for Josefina is one of the better books in the American Girls Collection. In the book, Josefina and her sisters have party for their friends and neighbors. After the party, Tia Dolores announces that she wants to move back with her parents. When Josefina and her sisters find out the real reason that Tia Dolores wants to leave, they find a way to get her to stay.

About a girl named Josefina who lives in 1824. She is Mexican and lives on a ranch with her dad and sisters and aunt. Her mom died two years ago. Her aunt who she calls Tia Dolores is going to leave and Josefina wants her to stay. Will her daring plan work?

This is another book in the American Girls series about Josefina Montoya, a ten-year-old girl living in the New Mexico of 1824. In this book, Josefina and her sisters prepare for Christmas, a grand celebration in New Mexico, made all the more special by the towns use of the Christmas altar cloth made by Josefina's late mother. However, when the altar cloth is brought it, they find out that the flood (Josefina Learns a Lesson) damaged the cloth. The girls rally round to fix the cloth...and perhaps fix themselves at the same time.

The final chapter of this wonderful book is a highly informative look at Christmas in New Mexico in 1824. Jean-Paul Tibbles' excellent illustrations complement the story nicely, and add a great deal to the joy of reading this book.

This is a wonderful story, with some excellent lessons. I liked the way the family pulled together, and worked hard towards something beyond themselves. Also, I like how the family's religion is worked into the book in a warm and inspiring way. This is another excellent American Girls book, one that my daughter and I recommend to you.

In this book Josefina gets to be Maria in the Christmas play. She has a happy Christmas.

Josefina Montoya is a nine-year-old girl growing up on her family's rancho near Santa Fe, New Mexico, in 1824. Mama died last year, and since then, life for Josefina, her father, and her older sisters, Ana, Clara, and Francisca. Even though things have been better since Mama's sister, Tia Dolores, came to help out, the Montoyas still grieve. Josefina feels that celebrating the Christmas traditions will make her miss Mama more - but they bring her peace and happiness. And one special night gives Josefina courage and hope for the future, and brings Josefina an unexpected gift. This book was very good and I learned a lot about the traditions of Mexican families living on the Southwest frontier in the 1820s.

This book has changed my life. I have read it 3 times and made my own cliff notes for quick reference. Frankly, I wish there was a longer, more detail group study guide to accompany the book. If you are serious about having peaceful relationships with "everyone" around you, the best way to start is changing yourself. This has been the quickest route I have found and the most profound. The author changed my heart and gave me a positive approach to reducing (soon to stop...yeah!...I feel it coming!) my angry reactions and participation in the angry outbursts of others. I especially wanted to raise my children to the highest standards of life I could find and not "pass on" my dysfunctional upbringing. What can I say, but thank you to this man who has helped me rise up to a new level of understanding. God Bless you!

Paul Tripp's book is unlike any other book on communication... instead of teaching communication skills or techniques, he goes right to the heart! What comes out of our mouths, is only an example of what is in our hearts! Tripp deals with heart issues! I have recommended this book to many people already!

This is a great book for those that really want to get the "heart" of relationship/communication struggles. Having the right words to say at the right time is a struggle for all of us. This book helps to show where our true responsibility lies for the words that come out of our mouth. It is a practical guide on how to understand the words we use, why and how to use our words to be better people to everyone.

I have this book and also the Felicity doll and I really enjoy the American Girl books and found this to be my favorite out of them all. The story shows that back in the 1700's girls had the same problems and adventures that they do today.I reccommend this book to any young girl.

This is the first in the American Girls Short Stories series about Felicity Merriman, a nine-year-old girl living in the America of 1774. In this book, Felicity is bored with her constrained "girl's" world, where her time is spent wearing cumbersome dresses and making small, uniform stitches. Excitement enters, when she meets the knacker's new horse. The knacker, Jiggy Nye, is a cruel man who mistreats the horse. Here Felicity learns that sometime you must work for what you love, and sometimes you must give it up.

The final chapter is a fascinating and highly informative look into life in 1774. This book lives up to the excellence that characterizes most American Girls books. My daughter and I greatly enjoyed it, and we recommend it to you.

Felicity loves horses and hates having to sit still and straight. Then she hears that cruel old Jiggy Nye has a new horse and just about worked her to death. When she sees the horse she instantly falls in love with her and gives her the name of Penny. She decides if she doesn't do anything about Penny being beaten no one will. Will she be able to save Penny in time?

Great listen. If you want to hear juicy things about the most famous presidency, just buy this. It is great. Geoffrey did a great job on the writing, narrative, editing.. everything. Just get it, listen to it, and listen again. The closest thing you will get to the court room

Thanks Geoff!

I just let this run continuously when driving in my car. I bet I've listened to it 25 times already! The details are unbelievable. Linda was a real _itch to do this to a "friend" but it's a good thing she did or that A-hole never would have been caught. Monica talks in intimate detail about her affair with Bill...dates, places, activities, etc. There are 22 hours of tapes in all; this is just the best parts. Makes you want to say to Ms Tripp "get a life!" but it's a great listen!!

I was practically upsest with getting this tape. And the results - awesome! You finally get to hear Tripp and Lewinsky in their own words! I've never been so please. 5 stars all the way!!!

This book is about Kit, a girl growing up in the Great Depression. In this book, it's almost Kit's birthday! And when Aunt Millie, Kit's father's foster mother visits, Kit knows it will be fun. Aunt Millie is called that because they didn't know what to call her and Aunt Millie said,"Call me anything but late for dinner!"
But when Aunt Millie has an idea for a Penny Pinching party, Kit isn't too sure. Especially when her Aunt Millie comes to school to share the news of Kit's birthday party and embarasses Kit in front of her whole class. Now Kit's really mad and yells at Aunt Millie that she shouldn't have done that and that she didn't want a Penny-pinching party. But now Kit has caused her Aunt Millie's feelings to get hurt and also causes Aunt Millie to almost go back to her home.
Kit didn't mean to? In the mean time, Aunt Millie brings two chickens so Kit can deliver eggs and earn money. One day while she and Howard (a kid in the boarding house) go to deliver eggs door to door, they find a Basset Hound with a note on her collar reading: Can't Feed Her Anymore. So Kit brings her home and names her Grace. Will everything be alright for Kit's Birthday Party? Will Kit be able to convince Aunt Millie to stay? And will Kit have a Penny Pinching party and love it? Find out! Read this book!

Kit knows her birthday will not be like other years as the family is short on money and barely getting by. She wishes to have a grand birthday like the one in the newspaper but knows that won't be possible. However a surprise visit from her Aunt Millie brightens her hopes. As everybody in her family knows Aunt Millie is a person who knows what to do out of anything. Kit can't believe how many ideas Aunt Millie comes up with such as turning corn sacks in bloomers, planting gardens, buying cheap things from the grocery store, picking dandelions to make salads, and a bunch of other ideas. The ideas are so plentiful that Kit, Ruthie, and Stirling start an Alamac on all Aunt Millie's money saving ideas. However when Aunt Millie suddenly shows up at her school Kit feels embarrassed at how her aunts idea of a penny pincher birthday. Kit also feels embarrassed as the kids laugh at her Aunt's ideas. However surprises are in store for Kit on her birthday! Read this book to find out!

This was another great addition to the American Girls Collection! I have been reading them since I was 7 and even though I am much older and these books are much too easy for me I still enjoy them as if I were 7! I highly recommend all the books!

This is another in the American Girls Short Stories series about Kit Kittredge, a nine-year-old girl living in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is 1934, and Kit and her family are struggling to make ends meet as the Great Depression deepens. With her birthday approaching, Kit secretly dreams an impossible dream, that she could have a large, wonderful birthday party. Aunt Millie, Kit's father's adoptive mother, makes a surprise visit to the family turning their lives upside-down. With her country, make-do way, Aunt Millie seems to work miracles, but a large, wonderful party is out of the question, right?

As with the other Kit books, this one gives a frank look into life during the Great Depression, while also teaching a lesson. In this book, Kit learns about making do with what you have, and even having a good time while doing so. The final chapter is about life during the depression, and making do. This is another wonderful book, and my daughter and I recommend it to you.

What a dynamic approach toward healing, understanding, and learning! I found Tossed Children to be a wonderful tool for my family. We learned together, as parent and children. This set of books enabled us to connect comfortably in a very uncomfortable and frightening topic. The children's portion was engaging, yet milder than its adult counterpart. And as for that counterpart, WOW! it certainly put the issue of sexual abuse in no vague terms. One immediatly identifies with the subjects of the story. This book is a breakthrough in my opinion. Get ready!

What an exciting departure from "traditional" self-help books. This tool is realistic, purposeful, and engaging. My family members, both adults and children, were comfortable, serious, and silly during our exploration of Tossed Children. I would recommend this set of books to any concerned parent or guardian.

Tossed Children is a creative tool for parents, teachers, and anyone who cares about children enough to teach them about the painful subject of sexual abuse. It addresses the issue in a very constructive way, through two parts meant for adult-child interaction. The story, while not at all explicit, quietly paints a picture of what it feels like to experience sexual abuse. This introduction provides food for thought and enables adults to understand the well of emotions that abused children hold inside. The workbook, meant for children and their crayons, contains simple sentences and large spaces for drawing themselves in different situations. As the workbook progresses, it teaches the differences between good touching and bad touching, how to say NO, and how to honor one's feelings.

I highly recommend Tossed Children. It is valuable not only for anyone wanting to help children understand sexual abuse, but in explaining concepts of healthy boundaries, respecting our feelings, and other topics that are critical to growing up.