Rare Bird Finds

Mini Zombie Preschool Fun with Intestines

A funny little comic for those with taste for zombie humor. It's a tale about zombie children who are given a recycling project by their teacher. Sample pages are listed on the site.  I just scored a copy for myself and I can't wait to read every page.  $1.20 at Last Dollar Comics

ThinkGeek :: HTML for Babies Book

Ah, for those advanced babies. This board book, created by a web designer for his child, will have your child dreaming of HTML. It's the first book in a three-book series. Also available is CSS for Babies. $9.99 at Think geek

Where Are They Buried Book

I know Halloween is over but if you have someone who's a celebrity fan this book is probably going to be a good gift. The Where Are They Buried book by Todd Benoit tells you where dead celebrities are buried and how they died.  So you can go on road trips to pay your respect to all of your favorite dead celebrities.  $14.95 at What On Earth

Baseball Scorekeeper Journal

Some people love the statistics, keeping track of every little detail that happens on the field. Me, I love the nachos, but that's a whole different sort of score to keep. For the true baseball fan, this scorekeeping journal will set the records straight. Detailed score sheets and even a pocket for ticket stubs. I think this might be an ideal gift for the parent who loves to take the kids to baseball games. You could keep the records and create a family heirloom at the same time. Think of the memories that these records could generate. And think of the nachos you could eat while watching those games...$16.95 at The Spoon Sisters.

Bride and Groom Bookmarks

This bride and groom couple look more like they've been turned into brain-eating zombies - which is what I totally like about them.  Made into a unique set of bookmarks, this pair will certainly add visually interest to your books.  Check out the shop for other bookmarks sold singularly.  $50 for the set at Honey Case

Crafting with Cat Hair Book

I saw this book at Comic-Con last week, and the whole concept made me laugh.  Crafting with Cat Hair is a book about, well, crafts you can make with your cat's hair.  According to the book, you'll learn how to make "kitty tote bags and finger puppets to fluffy cat toys, picture frames, and more."  Sounds like outrageous fun for both you and your kitty.  Releases Nov. 1, 2011.  $9.67 at Amazon, pre-orders being taken now.

Triangle Notebook

I guess the triangle shape of this unique notebook doesn't really ADD any function to it, except it makes it look super cool. And it opens so you have a full square page to write on. And it probably looks great on a book shelf. It might even be easier to find in your book bag. Your friends might think it's awesome. Other than that, though, it's just a notebook. A COOL ONE! $17.95 at the MOMA store.

Cake Pops Book

Recently a friend sent me yummy red velvet cake pops as a gift.  Since enjoying these delicious and super cute treats, I'm completely fascinated on how to make them myself. Cake Pops: Tips, Tricks, and Recipes for More Than 40 Irresistible Mini Treats looks like a great step-by-step tutorial by Bakerella (be sure to check out her blog). $11.97 at Amazon

How to be an Explorer of the World Journal

I love Keri Smith's books - they always get me thinking creatively. How to Be an Explorer of the World: Portable Life Museum is a great guide to letting you really experience the world by giving you tasks that forces you to observe your surroundings.  Smith's mission for this book is to "To document and observe the world around you. As if you’ve never seen it before. Take notes. Collect things you find on your travels. Document findings. Notice patterns. Copy. Trace. Focus on one thing at a time. Record what you are drawn to.”  $9.58 at Amazon

Cooking for Geeks Cookbook

Do you ever wonder about the science that makes a dish work or flop?  If you're into making food but you also want to understand the how and the why,then you should check out Cooking for Geeks: Real Science, Great Hacks, and Good Food. It will tickle your mind and your tastebuds. $18.74 at Amazon

Two Gentlemen of Lebowski: A Most Excellent Comedie and Tragical Romance

A friend of mine got me into this paperback that came out last year called Two Gentlemen of Lebowski: A Most Excellent Comedie and Tragical Romance .  If you're a Big Lebowski fan, you'll get a kick out of this smashup of the movie meets Shakespeare.  It's hilarous and such fun to read.  $10.39 at Amazon

My Quotable Kid

I can say with the utmost of certainty that littles speak with hilarity and honesty, resulting in some verbal gems you'll probably remember (or really want to) for years to come. For example, my mini was dead serious when she explained that she didn't have school this past November 11th, as it was Vegetarians' Day... something of course I'll probably continue to call the same holiday every year from now on. Why not use this keepsake journal to jot down those quotable notables? Makes a great gift for new parents! $14.95 at Paper Source

The Indie Rock Coloring Book

 

I'll admit it. I now have Xmas on the brain. Stocking stuffers, personalized gifts, and gift-giving traditions are pretty much all I'm focused on-- and do not want to put off until the last minute. This coloring book would be perfect for the indie music lover on your list- both young and old- and includes illustrations by everyone from MGMT to Rilo Kiley. With proceeds going to charity (the reason for the season!), pair it up with some fancy-shmancy drawing pencils (for the friend artiste!) or some fun-scented crayons (for the minis!). $9.99 at ModCloth

Dirty Spanish: Everyday Slang from "What's Up?" to "F*%# Off!"

 
Ah Dirty Spanish: Everyday Slang from "What's Up?" to "F*%# Off!" is for those who want to learn every day Spanish slang,  There is also Dirty French, Dirty Japanese and Dirty Italian to round out your education.  $8 at Amazon

Tales To Take Your Breath Away

I love this idea! Tiny classic books packaged cigarette style. Perfect stocking stuffer, going away gift, or keep-your-hands-busy-while-you-quit-smoking gift. And hey, they are educational and just plain lovely to boot. $68 at The Vitrine.

Daring Young Girl-Blank Moleskine Cahier Journal

This moleskine cahier journal is the perfect gift for the daring girl in your life. Perfect little journal to jot down adventures or do wild sketches.  The cover image of a girl on a trapeze is done in ink and acrylic, and the image even comes with a three-dimensional bisque arm.  Cute!  $20 at Marysgranddaughter

The Book of Totally Irresponsible Science: 64 Daring Experiments for Young Scientists

The Book of Totally Irresponsible Science: 64 Daring Experiments for Young Scientists is the type of book I totally would've loved as a kid.  In fact, I totally want this book now as an adult.  Every experiment is guaranteed to "snap, crackle, pop, ooze, crash, boom, and stink" - awesome!  You can look inside of the book on Amazon.  For ages 9 and up.  $9.32 at Amazon

Sweets: Soul Food Desserts and Memories

Mmm..I love down-home cooking, especially when it comes to desserts.  This book, Sweets: Soul Food Desserts and Memories, celebrates the author's memories of the mouth-watering confections that were made in her large African-American family when she was growing up.  The book includes photos and memories, but mostly, unique recipes such as butter bean pie to classic comforts like coconut cake.  Some of the names of the desserts are also fun - like Make You Slap Yo' Mama  blueberry pie.  Desserts include cakes, cobblers, pies, puddings, cookies, candies and ice cream - yum!  $12.91 at Amazon

Walls Notebook

 

For you graffiti artists, this Walls Notebook lets you doodle your heart away without breaking the law.  Each page features photos of urban walls just waiting to be decorated.  $11.53 at Amazon

One Line a Day: A Five-Year Memory Book

 

I'm really lazy with journaling - ugh, a whole blank page to fill up?! - but I like the idea of keeping memories.  That's why I'm drawn to One Line a Day: A Five-Year Memory Book. It's basically a journal that you keep for five years, but you only need to write one line.  Yep, easy peasy.  $11.53 at Amazon. (Psst...for you artists, you might want to check out One Sketch a Day: A Visual Journal)

Gold Printed Bike Journal

 

Graduation is coming up and here is a great grad gift for anyone. A handmade and eco friendly journal. I am all about inexpensive and impressive one-of-a-kind gifts and this would be perfect! $20 at Disconsolator.

Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter by Seth Grahame-Smith

 

I stumbled across the book Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter last night at the bookstore and it just cracked me up. I haven't read it (yet!) but I love the idea of a novel based around the secret life of Abraham Lincoln - vampire hunter! What's also neat is that inside the book are "historical photos" to support this comic tale. Okay, I'm off to order it.  $13.19 at Amazon

The Guide to "Designing Women"

In honor of the late great Dixie Carter, whom I admired greatly....here is the ultimate Guide to Designing Women.  I used to watch this show religously new and in syndication.  She was quite a lady!  $11.65 at Barnes & Noble. 

Chalkboard Book Blank Sketchbook

 

This cool blank journal has a cover that is made from a chalkboard, so you can doodle on the cover, erase and start again.  $48 at Erinzam

The Strange Case of Oragami Yoda

 
I saw this book the other day at the bookstore, and the book name and artwork caught my eye.  The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger is a kid's book about a 6th grade loser who has a origami Yoda finger-puppet who is very wise.  Reviews sound positive, and it sounds like a fun read!  $9.32 at Amazon

Sticky, Chewy, Messy, Gooey: Desserts for the Serious Sweet Tooth Cookbook

 

Uhm, I have a major sweet tooth and just hearing about desserts that are sticky, chewy, messy and gooey makes my heart go pitter patter.  Sticky, Chewy, Messy, Gooey: Desserts for the Serious Sweet Tooth by Jill O'Connor is a cookbook that will make your mouth water.  Based on reviews, it seems like the recipes are all winners!  $15.61 at Amazon

Jane Bites Back: A Novel

Jane Bites Back: A Novel by Michael Thomas Ford looks like a run read! It's for all you Jane Austen fans who also dig vampires. This novel answers the question, "What if Jane Austen was still alive today as a blood sucking fiend?!" $10.08 at Amazon

Peeps - Recipes and Crafts Book

Peeps Rule! They especially rule this time of year and while they are plentiful, stock up and use this book to make crafts and recipes with your favorite Peeps! Isn't this the best!$12.95 at Spoon Sisters.

The No S Diet Book

Uh oh, not another diet book, right?  But I really like this one.  The No S Diet isn't new but whenever I mention it to people they look at me blankly so I thought I'd share it with you guys.  I've been following it for a couple of days and I like it!  I'm already seeing a difference on the scale and my body fat (my scale measures all that).  It doesn't feel like I'm on a diet and I'm digging it.  So if you're looking for a diet to try, here's one that was created by an engineer who saw a system that worked.  It doesn't require money or equipment.  Doesn't require counting calories.  The premise is simple - no sweets, no snacks, no seconds except on S-days (Saturdays and Sundays and Special Occasions).  Hm, that's it!  Actually, you probably don't even need to buy  The No S Diet: The Strikingly Simple Weight-Loss Strategy That Has Dieters Raving--and Dropping Pounds since the author gives away all the principles of the diet on his website, but hey, the book is only $5.18 and it does go into a little more depth than the website.  If you're looking for an eating plan that will help you shed a few pounds, check the No S Diet out. $5.18 at Amazon

Unlovable by Esther Pearl Watson

Based on a real diary the artist/author found in a Las Vegas gas station bathroom in 1995, Unlovable looks like it would be both a funny and touching read. The story takes you into the inner life of an overweight high school sophomore as she maneuvers through love and life. $16.63 at Amazon

Secret Suppers - Rough Chefs and Underground Restaurants

Rare are the dinners you can only get an invite to by an underground chef for a special dinner prepared for very few guests an an undisclosed location. Learn about these chefs, these dinners, these locations. This book is rare treat for a foodie. Written by Jenn Garbee. $18 at Buy Olympia.

What Should I Read Next? Site

Are you a book fiend like me?  If you're constantly looking for that "next best read," then check out What Should I Read Next?  You enter the name of a book you like, and the site searches the database of real readers' favorite titles to suggest what you should read next.  So cool.  Thank you, Kat, for the tip!

Art Book Clips

These art book clips are pretty and would make a great inexpensive but pretty cool gift.  $12.50 at Heartworks by Lori

Christopher Walken A-Z

There are no words.... Oh except it's great to have this book in your home! I love him. $16.95 at What on Earth Catalog.

Sticky, Chewy, Messy, Gooey: Desserts for the Serious Sweet Tooth

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Zombies: A Book of Zombie Christmas Carols

The Curious World Of Christmas

Lost in Austen: Create Your Own Jane Austen Adventure

Handmade Hellos Book

Because the art of hand-written letters is dying, I fully support people who fight to keep it alive.  This adorable book has 25 different easy, fun ways to make greeting cards that people pay big bucks for in those chi-chi stationary stores. $20.95 at Fred Flare.

WIN THIS! Glamourpuss: The Enchanting World of Kitty Wigs

Julie Jackson, the very cool author of Glamourpuss: The Enchanting World of Kitty Wigs, saw our post on RBF, and she, along with Chronicle Books, have offered to do a giveaway of this super hilarious book to TWO Rare Bird Finds readers - woo hoo!

ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!

To enter, 1) become a fan of the Kitty Wigs! Facebook page and 2) leave a comment in this blog post (on the Rare Bird Finds website) with your name and mailing address (in case you win!).  ALL COMMENTS WILL REMAIN UNPUBLISHED - so no one will see your addy.  Two winners who have done both steps will be randomly picked.  U.S. and Canadian readers only.  Contest ends Friday, Nov. 20, 2009.

Good luck! 

Glamourpuss: The Enchanting World of Kitty Wigs Book

I was at the bookstore yesterday and stumbled upon Glamourpuss: The Enchanting World of Kitty Wigs by Julie Jackson who I know is a Rare Bird Finds reader (hiii, Julie!).  The book is flippin' funny.  I couldn't stop giggling.  The book features 60 stylish cats, each with hilarious sayings that will get you rollin'.  $10.17 at Amazon 

The Curious Garden

One of the favorite books of the summer in my house has definitely been one of Peter Brown's latest . Full of whimsical pictures and a main character that follows his heart by bringing a little bit of happiness to his surroundings, this sweet little book will bring the same to yours. $11.55 at Amazon

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies

Remember having to read Pride and Prejudice in school?  It's one of my favorite books, but now it's even better - with zombies!  Pride and Prejudice and Zombies: The Classic Regency Romance - Now with Ultraviolent Zombie Mayhem! looks like a fun parody. $7.77 at Amazon

Rare Bird Finds News - Please Read

Hello Birdie Friends!

With a heavy heart, I must sadly announce that Sharla will no longer be a regular contributor for Rare Bird Finds.  Sharla and I made our first Rare Bird Finds post in March of 2006, and it's been a fun ride!  I always looked forward to seeing what finds she discovered and cursing her name for helping to empty out my wallet :)  All of us will greatly miss Sharla's eye for the beautiful and the unusual, but more so, her warm spirit and enthusiasm.  However, she is moving on her journey to take care of her two beautiful toddlers and tending to her jewelry shop (which you really must visit, if you haven't!)

But this isn't the end of Rare Bird Finds!

We will be taking a break in July to clear our heads and come up with some fresh ideas.  If you're signed up for our email digest, you will get an email letting you know when our posts have returned - so please sign up, if you haven't already (the subscription box is on the left column).  But if not, be sure to return Monday, August 3, ok?!

To all of you have been faithful readers these past few years, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.  Every day when we post, we post knowing that you're looking forward to our finds.  This blog wouldn't be possible without you.  You keep us motivated, and we love your emails and comments - so keep them coming!

Warmly,

Mei-Lynn

Call for Fresh Ideas!

As a reader of Rare Bird Finds, we welcome any ideas you may offer to help improve our blog.  We're open to suggestions!  Just leave us a comment below or if you prefer, you can email us at rarebirdfinds@yahoo.com.

Call for Writers!

We're looking to add more regular contributors.  If you feel you can spot shopping finds that are a good match for our blog, send us an email along with a sample of 3 - 5 finds with blurbs.  Show us what you got!  Also, send along a bio about yourself (please include if you're a shop owner or if you have your own blog), what category you'd like to post in, and why you think you'd be a good pick! 

Book Talk Bookmark

This neat word bubble bookmark is re-writable and adds a bit of personality to your latest read.  $6 at Gama-Go

Gnome Bookmark

I love to read.  I love gnomes.  This is the perfect bookmark for me!  $9 at Hmodine. This shop has a ton of bookmark styles to choose from - check it out!

brilliance: uncommon women inspirational quote book

It's a new year and it's time for a new you.  I don't know about you, but I definitely need some inspiration!  This book showcases the brilliant insights of women.  $14.50 at Catching Fireflies.

Gifts under $20: The Ultimate Bar Book

The Ultimate Bar Book: The Comprehensive Guide to over 1,000 Cocktails $15.96

Gifts Under $20: Klingon and Vulcan Greetings Bookmark

Klingon and Vulcan Greetings Bookmark $3

One-year Subscription of Stashmedia

There is a whole world of commercials, game cinematics, music videos, short films, promos, and virals that we never get to see here in the states. This one-year subscription to stashmedia is chock full of the latest in 2D animation, 3D animation, claymation, paper cut outs, and more. As an added bonus they also feature the behind-the-scenes movie magic that goes into making these delectable tidbits. $249 at Stashmedia.