Preschool to Grade 4 Cont.

-- School Library Journal, 8/1/2006

Nonfiction Cont.

DRISCOLL, Laura. Do Dolphins Really Smile? illus. by Christina Wald. 48p. (All Aboard Science Reader Series). CIP. Grosset & Dunlap 2006. pap. $3.99. ISBN 0-448-44341-4. LC 2005027808.

Gr 2-4–This easy reader asks a question that will attract children and provides basic facts about dolphins. Several short sentences appear on each page, offering a lot of information. Unfortunately, the book lacks clearly defined chapters that would aid report writers in locating specific details. Colorful pictures clearly illustrate the narrative. However, Kevin J. Holmes’s Dolphins (Bridgestone, 1997) and Wendy Pfeffer’s Dolphin Talk (HarperCollins, 2003) do a better job of introducing these appealing creatures and their habits.–Christine Markley, Washington Elementary School, Barto, PA

Gr 2-4–The main focus of this succinct introduction is Robinson’s formative years, his short stint in the army, and his growth as an athlete. Ford describes some of the inequities he faced and notes that throughout his life he spoke out for the rights of African Americans. Well-chosen, tinted black-and-white photographs add detail and perspective, and a simple time line rounds out this attractive package. Though the book gives just an outline of this legendary athlete’s accomplishments, it is still a readable and fair-minded account that will meet the needs of young report writers. The text and overall organization give this title a slight edge over Lucia Raatma’s Jackie Robinson (Compass Point, 2000) and Don McLeese’s Jackie Robinson (Rourke, 2002).–Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA

Gr 3-5–Young poets will have fun perusing this book in search of the perfect rhyme. The alphabetical arrangement features one or two words per page surrounded by cartoon watercolor art. Each key word entry is highlighted in green along with its rhyming sound (For example, with boot goes “-oot”). A list of rhyming words follows (hoot, root, scoot). Following entries on other sounds in the word’s “rhyming family” (“-ute”) are a few more suggestions (acute, brute, etc.). Short rhymes scattered throughout are likely to encourage and inspire readers to try their hand at creating their own poems. The fanciful cartoons depict people, animals, and assorted creatures engaged in activities related to the entries. Tips for writing limericks, nonsense nursery rhymes, and various other rhymes are included in this useful resource.–Heather Ver Voort, Wilson Middle School, Natick, MA

PreS-Gr 3–Ice cream is easy to love, but it has not always been easy to make. Like spaghetti, its origins date back to Marco Polo and his famous trip to China. Gibbons explains how this favorite food developed from flavored ice to the creamy dessert we know today, describes the invention and workings of the ice-cream maker, follows the journey from cow to factory to grocery-store shelves, and mentions the innovative creation of the cone. All of these details combine to pay homage to what is arguably the most popular treat on the planet. The narrative is simple and direct and the cartoon illustrations are colorful and cheerful. Potentially unfamiliar vocabulary is defined within the text or on the same page, and all diagrams are clearly labeled. There is a lot going on in this book, but the layout guides readers through the wealth of information.–Kara Schaff Dean, Needham Public Library, MA

K-Gr 3–In these titles, each project is depicted on a spread that includes a materials list, directions, and color photographs of the steps and completed item. In some cases, the original cultural object is represented. For the most part, the finished project looks nothing like it, and, in some cases, the craft has no cultural significance. There is no attempt to use authentic materials. For example, American Indian Crafts states that Ojibwa dolls are made of pine boughs and then goes on to say, “We will make this one out of feathers.” The result is a pipe-cleaner/feather concoction glued to a toilet paper roll. Directions for the origami hopping frog in Asian-American Crafts are incomplete. To make the frog jump, one must blow into its body to inflate it, and then press down on the back. If the project is made correctly, it will hop. This is not included in the directions. Alexandra M. Terzian’s The Kids’ Multicultural Art Book (Williamson, 1993) and the “Asian Arts and Crafts for Creative Kids” series (Tuttle) provide solid cultural activities.–G. Alyssa Parkinson, Highland Township Library, MI

Gr 3-5–This appealing collaboration takes readers on a tour of the world’s ice landscapes, primarily Antarctica. The pages are filled with large, beautiful photographs; the text is in large black type on a white background; and sidebars are set in blue ink. The book discusses the nature of the extreme climate, the planes that fly there, the scientists who study it, and what it takes to live in this environment. Back matter offers more information on the planes and the Poles and briefly mentions the animals. At times the book raises more questions than it answers but, overall, its simplifications of a complex subject work.–Amelia Jenkins, Juneau Public Library, AK

Gr 2-4–Free-verse poems tell the story of a group of children who find each other during one otherwise lonely summer. Seven-year-old Drummer is anticipating a “Bummer Summer”: “Summer’s a bummer,/nobody to chase,/nobody to catch the ball/I throw./Hurry up, September!/Get here, fall!/so I can be with/all my friends again.” Before long, though, Dorene moves in down the street. Then Louis arrives. The last of the group is Rae, who’s sent to stay with Dorene and her family because of her mother’s illness. The African-American friends all bond, play, and build and paint an elaborate cardboard town they call Goodsummer. The simple watercolors work well at setting scenes of tidy streets lined with homes and lots of backyards and parks. Gilchrist’s talent shows in her use of color, splashed with light, but some of her figures look a bit stiff. The children’s voices are printed in different colors, making this title a natural choice for choral reading. For a younger audience than most novels-in-verse, this accessible and well-written book has a nostalgic tone–you don’t see a television or computer game anywhere, and the children’s play is centered on activities such as dress-up, slides and swings, and playing school.–Lauralyn Persson, Wilmette Public Library, IL

K-Gr 2–This slim series entry takes a look at glaciers from the Ice Age to the Titanic disaster. Harrison includes facts on glacial formation, physical properties, and geological history. He has a poetic grasp of the kind of animated language that hooks young readers into nonfiction, yet his narrative is hindered by some inconsistencies and confusing usage. The pronunciation is given for the word “calving,” but not for words like “Beringia” or “equator,” and the author confusingly interchanges the terms iceberg and glacier. The discussion of Earth’s warming trend and the melting glaciers makes it sound as though this is all part of a normal cycle. While the art technique is original, the illustrations are not always effective. The rendering of the Titanic hitting an iceberg works well in captivating children’s attention, but the geological effects of melting glaciers are less clearly depicted. Source notes are not provided, and the author’s note is geared toward older readers. There is a minimal section on further reading, but no glossary is offered to reinforce terms mentioned. Look to Roy A. Gallant’s Glaciers (Watts, 1999), which has color photographs and a clearer text.–Michael Santangelo, Brooklyn Public Library, NY

Gr 2-4–This brief chapter book begins in 1892, explaining that the Wright brothers, who loved inventions, ran a bicycle shop and read about the flight research by German flier Otto Lilienthal. When he died in a crash, the men decided to continue with his research. The author explains the various steps they took to create and test a flying machine. Terms such as “pitch,” “air pressure,” “glider,” and “elevator” are explained in the text and in a glossary. An afterword talks about the scientific research method that the Wrights used. The writing is easy and interesting, and the text is in large print. The illustrations, some full page, are in muted watercolors but the faces are painted with clear expressions and details that add to the quality of the book. This biography would make a useful starting point for classroom discussion on the Wright brothers or the scientific method.–Heather Ver Voort, Wilson Middle School, Natick, MA

Gr 2-4–In this brief history, students learn basic facts about our nation’s capital. In keeping with the series format, the book opens with statistics and then offers a chronological history and chapters on the people, land, economy, government, and “Things to See and Do.” Why the District of Columbia is not a state and how Congress has the final word on its budget are explained. Many colorful graphs illustrate the statistical information. Color photos and maps are also included. There are a few issues with the text, including “capitol” used incorrectly in one instance, and much simplification. A paragraph discussing the Civil War says that slavery was “a key issue” but does not mention any others. However, the writing is lively and the book provides enough information for a basic report. The entries in the “Celebrate the States” (Benchmark) and “America the Beautiful” (Children’s Press) series are longer and go into more detail.–Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, St. Christopher’s School, Richmond, VA

Gr 1-4–“Three witches had already eaten a boy and girl’s mother and father, so their grandmother took them to live with her far off in the woods.” Grandmother goes for food and the witches come. “Those witches! Their teeth were far longer than their lips!” They send the children to fetch water in a sieve; the children end up in a tree, and the witches start to chop it down with broad axes. The girl sings “Block eye, chip!” and the wood chips fly back into the witches’ eyes and blind them. The boy calls the dogs, but they are tied up at home. Grandma returns, but is so tired from her journey that she takes a nap. A snake wakes up the old woman, she looses the dogs, and all ends well. Thomas’s adaptation of the tale is careful and clever–she doesn’t leave out anything, and elaborates only by drawing engaging dialogue out of the more straightforward original narrative. Ringgold’s naive-style paintings in dark rich hues suit the creepy story perfectly–boy, are those witches ugly! Her portrait of Hurston, laughing, at the end of the story, lends a lovely and reassuring visual coda. Short engaging notes add context and cite Hurston’s original source. Read this aloud, and add it to any collection alongside the other recent Hurston adaptations for young audiences, including Mary E. Lyons’s Roy Makes a Car (S & S, 2005), Christopher Myers’s Lies and Other Tall Tales (HarperCollins, 2005), and Thomas’s adaptation of The Six Fools (HarperCollins, 2006).–Nina Lindsay, Oakland Public Library, CA

Gr 1-5–Kennedy’s introduction to the political process is clear, informative, and loaded with child appeal, in part due to the choice of narrator: his Portuguese Water Dog, Splash. This canine bundle of friendly, panting fun takes readers on a tour of monuments and then describes a typical day: staff discussion of an education bill, a ride in the underground tram between the Senate and the Capitol, a press conference, a committee meeting, and a floor vote. Children will appreciate Splash’s joy at the snacks and time for outdoor catch along the way, as well as the strategic “Woof” when the committee reaches an impasse on the bill. While the swift and tidy resolution is clearly fictional, the actual process is rendered memorable through the presentation. Small’s shifting perspectives capture the shimmering lights viewed from a moving tram, the glory of the soaring Capitol rotunda, the heartfelt affection in a beloved dog’s eyes. Back matter includes information about Kennedy, Splash, and how a bill becomes a law. With its multicultural cast, nonpartisan viewpoint, and protagonist brimming with personality, this look inside the Beltway is a first choice for classrooms, tourists, and animal lovers everywhere.–Wendy Lukehart, Washington DC Public Library

Gr 1-4–These easy readers introduce tall-tale characters from American history. Each two-page opener discusses the nature of folklore and tall tales and is identical from book to book except for a few opening paragraphs devoted to the figure profiled. With simple vocabulary and some dialogue, Krensky gives children a feeling for the characters as well as the flavor of the time and the story’s setting. Full-page or full-spread paintings illustrate the texts. Solid purchases.–Lynda Ritterman, Atco Elementary School, Waterford, NJ

Gr 3-5–Lewis is back, this time with a quirky collection of humorous epitaphs. He honors departed farmers, food critics, lighthouse keepers, and many others. Some of the best are also the shortest, like the one for an underwear salesman, “Our grief/Was brief.” The longer verses sometimes reach the point of pure silliness, but all are delightfully irreverent. The font and type suggest engravings on a headstone and support the mood of the book. Bartram’s surrealistic acrylic illustrations heighten the humor and, in some cases, clarify the meaning of Lewis’s ubiquitous puns. A great selection for a Halloween read-aloud or reluctant poetry readers.–Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

K-Gr 2–Following a brief explanation of the science behind the seasons, Lin takes readers from autumn to summer, pairing haiku verses on one page with explanations of seasonal changes on the other. For autumn, for example, the text answers the questions, “What makes the wind?” “Why do leaves change color?” and “Why do I see my breath?” Further pairings address frost, suntans, thunderstorms, and pollination, among others. The simple haiku provide an accessible foray into poetry for the youngest readers and, for the most part, the scientific explanations follow suit. While the initial explanation of the Earth’s revolution around the sun might have benefited from a more illustrative diagram, the title ultimately delivers. The gouache illustrations have plenty of child appeal and effectively tie together the poetry and the facts. A welcome addition to any collection in need of seasonal titles.–Jill Heritage Maza, Conn Elementary, Raleigh, NC

Gr 2-4–In each of these small-format titles, five or six brief chapters provide basic information on the topic, along with a few specifics. Every page features a half-page color photo or map of average quality. Unfamiliar words are in bold and defined in context; some are included in the glossary. Deserts gives very general information about the make-up and life conditions of about 23 of the world’s desert areas in 18 half-pages of text. The other titles each have illustrative problems. In Mountains, a caption correctly states that Pikes Peak is a domed mountain, but the photo is not of Pikes Peak. Seas tries to cover too much territory with a very limited vocabulary. “Rain and rivers wash the salt off rocks” is the explanation given for ocean salt water. Volcanic action on the ocean floor is not easily explained in eight short, simple sentences. Rivers is likely the most accurate of the four titles, but simplistic statements such as “A bridge may connect the two sides of a river” do not add much to the text. The caption for one photo states that “These birds are wading in a river’s estuary,” when they are obviously floating. These titles may be attractive, but they don’t have much content.–Eldon Younce, Harper Elementary School, KS

Gr 1-4–A little bat is born in a cave with millions of other female bats and their young. The fight for survival is apparent from his first moments of life–predators threaten the powerless infant from all sides. Drama ensues over a week later when his mother dies at the claws of a barn owl, and the baby goes hungry for several days. However, he is ultimately saved by a mother bat who has lost her baby and is searching for a new mouth to feed. Markle incorporates many facts about the Mexican free-tailed bats in a natural manner. These facts enhance the story, but don’t get in the way of the compelling plot. Listeners will learn quite a bit about bats and their first days. Marks’s illustrations bring out the rich colors of the night and give a sense of the immensity of the world as compared to the tiny baby bat. A compelling way to learn about these fascinating creatures.–Susan E. Murray, Glendale Public Library, AZ

Gr 1-2–While these books introduce the roles of community helpers, they are also perfect for children who want to find out about specific careers. All of them are narrated by youngsters who want to help their neighborhoods when they grow up. Each spread is headed by a statement–“I Could Be a Coach!”–or a question–“Who Works with Veterinarians?”–and gives information about prerequisites, training, workplaces, and equipment needed to do the job. People practicing in the fields are also featured. Colorful, close-up photos that show males and females of various ethnicities contribute, and sidebars on strips of vivid color add to the attractiveness and informational value of these titles.–Lynda Ritterman, Atco Elementary School, Waterford, NJ

K-Gr 3–Eating Well helps youngsters learn how to choose and maintain a healthy diet by following the USDA’s MyPyramid™. Mitchell covers each food group and what it does for the body, such as grains providing energy and the milk group helping to make bones strong. The text also addresses the proper quantities to consume each day. In Working with Others, Nelson explains that everyone gets angry but that it is important to know how to resolve conflicts, such as using respectful words, listening to the opinions of others, apologizing, and talking things through. The concept of compromise is also introduced. Both books have full-color photos on every page. Useful and informative additions.–Sandra Welzenbach, Villarreal Elementary School, San Antonio, TX

PreS-Gr 1–An energetic adaptation of a traditional song. Bright cartoons with collage details capture various students and staff as they travel on the school bus. The usual suspects are here, from children, teachers, and the librarian to the nurse and a female coach. On the final spread, the driver switches hats to become the principal and welcomes the excited crowd to his school. The lyrics are clever and, for the most part, fit the melody well. The librarian urges the students to “Read, read, read!...Read more books!” and the custodian says, “Mop, mop mop! Sweep, sweep, sweep!...Clean this mess!” The “lunch ladies” verse crams a few too many syllables into each line, but the extra effort is repaid in the illustration–two lunch ladies (one cuddly, one intimidating) serve up spaghetti, hamburgers, and bowls of green goo, while the librarian holds up a book with a “recipe for glop.” Lyrics and music are included on the last page. This book is a surefire winner, combining a wildly popular song with the enduring appeal of the school bus, and bringing it all to life with madcap pictures.–Suzanne Myers Harold, Multnomah County Library System, Portland, OR

Pres-Gr 1–Meant to reassure children in foster care, this accumulation of short, declarative sentences stresses the importance of being safe. The illustrations show a multiethnic cast of kids and adults, some in positive situations and others in more stressful settings. The first half of the book discusses, in the briefest possible terms, why kids end up in foster care, and the second half talks about foster parents and other adults in supporting roles. There is virtually no transition from one thought to the next, giving a random feel to the text. With only 10 spreads, the extreme brevity alone imposes some limits. Still, the information presented seems arbitrary, at best. One entire spread is devoted to the statement, “Usually moms and dads take good care of kids and keep kids safe.” If the audience for the book is truly the one stated in the subtitle, why emphasize what these children’s parents have failed to do? The rather ordinary paintings are weakest at reflecting facial expressions. A brief but helpful informational message for adults is appended, giving tips on helping foster children work through their difficult emotions, and a list of adult resources is also included. The book does offer validation of a living situation that affects thousands of children in the U.S. each year and explains it in a straightforward style, albeit with mediocre results.–Faith Brautigam, Gail Borden Public Library, Elgin, IL

Gr 3-6–Sir Cumference returns in this tale that introduces readers to the concepts of perimeter and area. As in the previous books, Neuschwander’s characters have names that play with mathematical terminology. In this adventure Per visits his uncle and aunt (Sir Cumference and Lady Di of Ameter). After learning a game involving “inners and edges,” she and her cousin Radius become embroiled in a mystery with a secret message and a threatening sea serpent. To solve it, the youngsters must travel to the Isle of Immeter and use a series of geometric formulas to tame the sea serpent and bring peace to the “area.” Readers already familiar with these formulas will have the most ease understanding and solving the mystery. Teachers introducing the concepts of perimeter and area might find the book useful. Libraries that own the four earlier books in the series will want to consider adding this latest adventure to their collections.–Maura Bresnahan, High Plain Elementary School, Andover, MA

Gr 2-4–Easy-reader adaptations of two of Nicolson’s earlier titles. The books contain less information and are lacking the activities and glossary that were in the originals. In Space Rocks, an introductory chapter provides a short definition of comets, asteroids, and meteorites followed by lengthier chapters specifically focusing on each one. Stars defines what stars are, how we observe them, how they form constellations, the life of stars, and galaxies. In both books, the author starts each section with a question and then answers it. Small watercolor illustrations and full-color NASA photographs were largely taken from the previous titles and do a good job of supporting the texts. The lower vocabulary is helpful for less proficient readers and useful if an overview is needed, but most children will prefer books with larger photos and more detailed information.–Sandra Welzenbach, Villarreal Elementary School, San Antonio, TX

K-Gr 3–This updated, colorful atlas provides snapshots of the world. Globes, maps, and landforms are explained through clear language and bright illustrations in the opening pages. Following this general overview, the information becomes more specific with details about each continent. Each oversize spread contains a map and photographs and pictures of people, animals, places, and things particular to the region, described in detailed captions. There is also a short, chatty paragraph, sometimes in first person, that will give readers a sense of what the children in the photographs think about what they are doing or their country. At the bottom of each page are small pictures of landmarks, natural and man-made, of the area. This updated version includes details about the United States and Canada not found in the 1994 edition. While the factual information is limited, the illustrations will introduce readers to the variety of cultures and landscapes around the world.–Christine Markley, Washington Elementary School, Barto, PA

PreS-Gr 2–Pallotta follows the alphabetical formula used in many of his other titles, this time with Bolster’s illustrations to showcase different types of construction equipment. Upper- and lowercase letters are paired with brief descriptive paragraphs that explain how pieces of construction equipment–from an aerial lift to a zipper–are used. Some of the machines are used in demolition, some for roads; others to clear land or erect buildings. Treatment is brief. A backhoe, cement mixer, dump truck, jackhammer, and wrecking ball will be more familiar to children than a horizontal borer, knuckleboom loader, mobile rock crusher, quad-axle lowbed, and vactor. The realistic paintings, rich in tones of blue, brown, red, green, and orange, will attract youngsters. Libraries with a high demand for construction-related books should consider adding this appealing title.–Lynn K. Vanca, Akron-Summit County Public Library, Richfield, OH

Gr 2-6–Twenty-three competitors, ranging from the celebrated (Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan, Joe DiMaggio) to the less familiar (Diego Maradona, Michael Schumacher, Annika Sorenstam) are presented on colorful spreads. Each one is introduced with a phrase that reflects the book’s title and highlights a defining characteristic (e.g., for Wayne Gretzky, “Athletes are made of brains over brawn”). A lively paragraph offers a cursory look at a personal event or anecdote that emphasizes that particular trait, describing both accomplishments and foibles. Gouache collage portraits are decorated with items that cleverly reflect each individual’s profession and personality. For instance, Babe Ruth (“Athletes are made of a hunger for greatness”) has Coke-bottle eyebrows, baseball gloves and balls for eyes, a large steak for a nose, and a hot dog with bun for a mouth. Surprisingly, these pictures actually do look like the subjects. Brief biographical facts about each athlete and a small photo are appended. While not a first purchase, this title is fun to browse. It could also inspire students to create self-portraits using items that expose their personalities, likes, and strengths, or to make a similar book about their favorite people. Make sure the art staff sees this one.–Kate Kohlbeck, Randall School, Waukesha, WI

K-Gr 4–Part alphabet book, part catalog of species, part treasury of facts, this book is sure to delight young dinosaur lovers. In fact, the hardest part for librarians is not deciding whether or not to purchase it, but where to catalog it. A time line on the inside front cover shows the eras of the Earth, and then readers are off on a silly slide through an alphabet of dinosaurs. (And yes, there is a dinosaur for every letter, right down to Xuanhanosaurus, Yangchuanosaurus, and Zizhongosaurus.) Each page features an alliterative question along the lines of the title, accompanied by an appropriately wacky illustration, a pronunciation guide, and information about the species’ era, range, size, and diet. Plant packs in an astonishing array of dinosaurs, from old favorites like Tyrannosaurus and Velociraptor to lesser-known varieties such as the spiky Kentrosaurus and the two-foot long Wannanosaurus. This title is ideal for young dinosaur aficionados who yearn for something new.–Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, MD

PreS-Gr 2–A brief foreword gives some background information on pigeons, then asks, “What do you think a day is like for a pigeon?” The rest of the book is a hip-hop-style poem that answers that question, starting with sunrise and ending in the evening. The pigeons nibble doughnuts on the street, dodge taxis and construction equipment, and listen to music from clubs at night (“Rapping, rocking,/Rhythms, rhymes,/Bopping beats,/Streets alive”). Most of the text has a good rhythmic beat, although sometimes it strains for effect (“Grilling sizzles/Wheeling by,/Juicy colors,/Citrus sweets”). Overall, the pictures are more successful than the poetry. Created with polymer clay and photographed, the vibrant spreads show delicately feathered figures and urban backdrops in an array of rainbow colors. Children will enjoy their details and obvious technical skill (although the pictures lack the grit and depth that would make a more authentic look). An arched-window cutout appears throughout, framing scenes and adding an element of surprise. It’s great to encourage kids’ interest in what so many consider an unlovable creature, and larger libraries may want to add this interesting title.–Lauralyn Persson, Wilmette Public Library, IL

PreS-Gr 1–Children are invited to guess what game is featured from an illustration showing a kitten holding a ball and standing on an outdoor playing field. Turning the die-cut pages reveals the answer along with a picture inventory of related athletic gear: “This is my soccer shirt,” “These are my basketball shorts,” “These are my baseball socks.” All of the items can be found in the brightly colored cartoon art. A positive statement, such as “And this is me scoring a touchdown!,” frames each of the five action scenes. The book ends with the teammates playing a friendly game of catch. Reproducible paper-doll patterns extend the interactive fun. A winning title for young sports enthusiasts.–Linda Ludke, London Public Library, Ontario, Canada

K-Gr 3–Colorful, inviting photographs introduce readers to connections among cultures from around the world. The book looks at celebrations among the Tibetans and Sherpas of the Himalaya, Tuareg of the Sahara, Aborigines of Australia, Sami of the Arctic Circle, Yanomami of the Amazon, Inuit of North America, and Balinese of South Asia, and includes corresponding entries from the U.S. Reynolds clearly shows that while every culture has its own traditions and reasons for celebrating, these events have much in common–people gather together, eat and drink, decorate themselves, make music, dance, and use fire. The excellent-quality photographs and the brief, engaging text come together to promote the theme: “We are one human family celebrating life on Earth!” A pronunciation guide, author’s note, and map are appended. A welcome addition to multicultural literature.–Alexa Sandmann, Kent State University, OH

K-Gr 2–With color photos that equal any painting for artistry of composition and sensitivity, Robbins has created a book that is certain to become an autumn favorite. Without naming the season, it launches into a description of autumn as “…that time of year when…,” clearly and poetically evoking the crisp, cooler days with the leaves “…splashing their color on the ground….” The author documents the life cycle of the pumpkin with close-up, naturalistic photos and clear, simple text. He discusses the wide variety of pumpkin colors and sizes, from the palm-sized types to those weighing more than 1000 pounds. Basic instructions are included for carving a jack-o-lantern, with adult help suggested. The next year’s crop, ensured by the pumpkins and their seeds left to rot in the field, is the focus of the last spread. Will Hubbell’s Pumpkin Jack (Albert Whitman, 2000) covers similar ground, but is told as a story, and has colored-pencil illustrations. Reading both books makes a great lesson in comparing and contrasting, as well as in botany and in the joys of the season.–Lynda Ritterman, Atco Elementary School, Waterford, NJ

Gr 1-4–This slim book tells the mythology behind 19 constellations, including Taurus, Andromeda, and Lyra. Large, colorful illustrations of the various “star pictures” spill over the two pages devoted to each one. Back matter includes instructions for three activities. The brief, clear text serves as a simple introduction to the night sky.–Linda Wadleigh, Haymon-Morris Middle School, Winder, GA

PreS-Gr 2–Perhaps best suited for classroom libraries, these books foster body and health awareness. Bright, full-page color photographs show children of various ethnicities demonstrating the concepts suggested in the texts. Sentences are simple, with plenty of repetition. Nonreaders will be able to get the messages from the pictures, which feature sound forms of exercise, show when to drink water, and depict nutritious snacks. Although a picture in Active shows a boy riding a bike that is too big for him, most of the photos are engaging and realistic. These titles promote the MyPyramid™ government Web site and suggest FactHound as a safe source for links to additional information.–Janet S. Thompson, Chicago Public Library

PreS-Gr 2–In this straightforward retelling of a traditional tale, Jack trades the family cow for five magic beans. When a beanstalk grows where his dismayed mother has tossed them, Jack climbs it to pay three visits to the giant at the top. He emerges from the trips victorious and wealthy while the giant ultimately plummets down a mountainside. This title stays true to the core elements of the tale, but it does little to stretch beyond its backbone and softens much of the rich language that traditionally draws readers into Jack’s adventure. One is not left terrified, or even slightly shaken, upon reading this version, for what is a “Fee-fi-fo-fum” without the subsequent threat of crunching bones? López Salán has depicted the giant as a sort of oversized leprechaun and while his angular, spare illustrations may have succeeded alongside a humorous, tongue-in-cheek retelling, they fall short when paired with this watered-down version. If in need of a Jack tale rich in classic references, suspense, and humor, try Steven Kellogg’s Jack and the Beanstalk (HarperCollins, 1991) or Gail E. Haley’s Appalachian gem, Jack and the Bean Tree (Random, 1986).–Jill Heritage Maza, Conn Elementary, Raleigh, NC

PreS-Gr 3–A delightful, infectiously cheerful, Southwestern rendition of a familiar story. Phrases used to describe biscuits, such as “plump as pillows, soft as clouds, and tasty as a big Texas barbecue,” just roll off the tongue. Bow-legged and dressed in a vest, boots, hat, and a big belt buckle, the Gingerbread Cowboy teases: “Giddyup, giddyup as fast as you can. You can’t catch me, I’m the Gingerbread Man” and includes an added refrain, “and raced away as fast as his boots could carry him.” The lively text demands to be read aloud. The illustrations are bold: while the rancher and his wife look a bit flat, and the expressions of the cattle are cookie-cutter perfect, the Cowboy contorts his body expressively, and the coyote is infinitely sly. The orangey-brown land and sparse green cacti convey a sense of desolation, but the colorful crowd of animals and cowboys stands out dramatically against the parched landscape. Berry plays with point of view as the various figures trade levels of prominence. The rancher’s wife bakes, almost lassoes the clever coyote, and later instructs the creature on how to make his own Gingerbread Cowboy. A fresh version of an old favorite.–Kirsten Cutler, Sonoma County Library, CA

Gr 1-3–An endearing orange tabby leads children on an alphabetical tour of the library. Rhyming couplets that for the most part flow nicely give readers an overview, with equal emphasis on print and nonprint resources, fiction, nonfiction, and reference. “C is for the Caldecott,/awarded for art that pleases the eyes./D is for the Dewey Decimal System,/which helps us organize.” The feline is accompanied by the ducklings from Robert McCloskey’s classic Make Way for Ducklings, who perch on the cat’s head as it peruses magazines, make xerox copies of their webbed feet, and otherwise cavort in amusing ways. The library depicted is warm and inviting, with a multiethnic group of children (and historical figures) obviously enjoying themselves and excited by their surroundings. The illustrations employ a soft but varied palette and are replete with details that add interest and humor to the text. This would make an excellent first-time-in-the-library book, but it will be enticing to children throughout the year as well.–Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ

Gr 1-3–Truss’s picture-book version of her adult bestseller tackles the topic of commas and what can go wrong when they are misused. The title is derived from an old joke in which a panda misunderstands correct panda behavior after reading a poorly punctuated wildlife guide. Versions of two identically worded sentences are presented side by side, demonstrating the difference in meaning achieved when a comma is added or subtracted. Timmons’s humorous watercolor cartoons bring the point home. In one spread, the sentence on the left (“Look at that huge hot dog!”) is illustrated with a gigantic sausage, while that on the right (“Look at that huge, hot dog!”) shows a tall, sweltering canine. The author cleverly selects examples with the potential for comical (and grammatically correct) revisions. Endnotes elaborate on comma usage in more technical terms. While a title on grammar may need hand selling, both read-aloud audiences and independent readers will discover the potent possibilities of punctuation. More specific than Robin Pulver’s Punctuation Takes a Vacation (Holiday House, 2003), Truss’s work is sure to spark creative assignments in elementary composition curriculums.–Jayne Damron, Farmington Community Library, MI

PreS–This title provides short, descriptive instructions for inhibiting the spread of germs. However, while Verdick does an excellent job of describing how to get rid of germs, she never touches on what they are or what they do, aside from a small note by a teddy bear doctor stating that “Germs can make you sick.” Simple colorful cartoons clearly depict the action. Some well-presented tips for parents and teachers on ways to use the book effectively with preschoolers and how to prevent the spread of germs at home or at school are appended. This book is a good choice for teaching youngsters the basics about hygiene, especially if used in conjunction with other materials that present germs and sickness in an age-appropriate manner.–Tamara E. Richman, Somerset County Library System, Bridgewater, NJ

Gr 1-3–Familiar features of nocturnal creatures and their habitats are sketchily explored in colorful paintings and generalized brief text. Full spreads portray nighttime life in the jungle, desert, woodlands, ocean, wetlands, and Australian bush. The realistic illustrations show animals in their natural environments but not all of the species depicted are discussed in the text. For example, in “Desert life,” nine different creatures are pictured but only the skunk is described (its ability to “squirt a jet of smelly liquid from underneath” its tail is the only attribute mentioned). In addition, skunks may not be the best choice to represent the desert since they are also commonly found in woodlands and rocky terrain. The word “nocturnal” is used often and not defined in the glossary. Although the book is attractive, the amount of information does not sufficiently illuminate the subjects to be useful in report writing or to elicit browsers’ interest.–Nancy Call, Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos, CA

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