Preschool to Grade 4 Cont.

-- School Library Journal, 10/1/2006

Fiction Cont.

LAMARCHE, Jim. Up illus. by author. unpaged. CIP. Chronicle 2006. Tr $16.95. ISBN 0-8118-4445-5. LC 2005029793.

PreS-Gr 3–Once again, LaMarche laces workaday reality with a little bit of magic. Daniel longs to join his father and older brother on the family fishing boat, but every day they leave him behind to help his mother instead. Between Michael’s taunts and the whole family’s condescending use of the pet name “Mouse,” Daniel finds himself in an especially defiant mood during lunch one afternoon. “Someday I’ll be so strong,” he mutters, and, fueled by the sheer force of his will, an oyster cracker hops from the surface of the table in agreement. Delighted and surprised, the boy quietly cultivates his strange new talent, and soon he graduates from bathtub toys and fishbowls to much bigger, heavier objects. Levitation is a neat trick, but Daniel figures it’s not really that useful–until the day a whale beaches itself on the shore and he gives it the boost it needs to ease back out to sea. The soft acrylics capture the low light, palpable chill, and blue-gray color scheme of Daniel’s fishing village. This is an inspiring and (yes) uplifting title about pursuing one’s own talents and possibilities.–Catherine Threadgill, Charleston County Public Library, SC

PreS–Sam is absentminded. While outside playing, the little cub removes his coat. Just as his mother discovers that it is missing, his friend returns it. The next day, the bear takes off his mittens to fix his bike and returns home without them. Just then his father comes home bearing the mittens, found in the garage. Then Sam loses the hat his Grandma sent. Struggling to remember where it could be, he topples over and looks up to find it stuck on a tree branch above the fence he just climbed. The simple story contains minimal action, but children will relate to Sam’s forgetfulness. McPhail’s detailed and textured watercolor and pen-and-ink illustrations create a warm and welcoming feeling. The book will work best with one-on-one guided reading, but it can also be used as a dialogic reading exercise.–Linda Zeilstra Sawyer, Skokie Public Library, IL

PreS-Gr 2–Once again, Lester and Munsinger tell a comical story, this time about a wombat who is recruited to play baseball in the North American Wildlife League. The Champs, who finished in last place during the previous season, eagerly embrace Wombat, a rugby star from Australia, whose name they mistake as “Whambat.” However, the newcomer has difficulty getting a grip on the game, and readers will howl at his literal interpretations of baseball lingo. When the Champs play a team of raccoons, frazzled Wombat becomes a liability for his team. That is, until the sky darkens and a tornado rapidly approaches, leaving the players exposed on the field until Wombat digs a tunnel where everyone takes refuge. Lester’s story will hold children’s attention and sends the message that everyone is good at something. Munsinger’s whimsical watercolor artwork, filled with personified animals, adds to the fun. Young baseball fans will welcome this zany book.–Lynn K. Vanca, Akron-Summit County Public Library, Richfield, OH

PreS-K–It’s springtime on the savannah, and there are new babies all around the land. Little Elephant has just discovered his trunk and watches the adults to see what to do with it. He then mimics their behavior and thoroughly enjoys drinking, showering himself, and snorkeling. Lincoln has created a simple tale that will be readily welcomed at storytimes. The illustrations are created in soothing pastel tones, and the protagonist’s face is full of character and expression. Lincoln’s charming drawings bring life to the African plain. Children will enjoy listening to this story and will identify with Little Elephant’s delight in his newfound talents.–Susan E. Murray, Glendale Public Library, AZ

PreS-K–In this charming story, a young fox is distraught over the arrival of a new baby and the seeming cessation of his father’s love and attention. Braun’s lovely, richly colored illustrations show Little Fox earnestly performing naughty and nice tricks in an attempt to gain back his premier status in the household. His “Very Bad Song” should delight any preschooler who has encountered an odiferous baby. Of course, the story ends with a comforting reassurance that Little Fox will be loved “forever and ever” by his daddy, and they share honey cake in front of the fire. This is a warm and funny addition to a crowded genre. It is notable for its focus on the father-son relationship and the cleverness of Little Fox as he clamors for attention.–Tamara E. Richman, Somerset County Library System, Bridgewater, NJ

PreS-Gr 1–Dancing dinosaurs leap off the pages of a book and suddenly appear in the school library. From there, the playful green friends peek and sneak into a classroom and onto the playground while creating a swirl of excitement for the school librarian and a boy who follow their escapades. The bold, bouncy illustrations and one-sentence rhyming text make this book a concrete purchase. It is perfect for beginner readers.–Tracy Bell, Eastway Elementary School, Durham, NC

PreS-Gr 3–One autumn afternoon, Bitsy, a tiny lilac toy bunny, falls out of her girl’s pocket and gets lost in the woods. Although frightened, she is determined to find her way home. When she meets a huge brown bear, she hides behind her ears, but he is gentle and offers to help her, even though he’s on his way to his cave for his winter nap. During the walk, Bear becomes increasingly sleepy, so Bitsy sings bouncy tunes to keep him awake until they arrive at her house. That night, she sees the falling snow and wonders if Bear reached his destination. In the morning, she goes in search of him, unwinding a ball of yarn to mark her path. She uses all of the yarn and then unravels her own sweater before she finally finds him. Bear has fallen asleep in the open and no matter how loudly she sings, she just can’t wake him. However, the woodland animals hear her, and together they build a shelter around Bear to protect him through the winter. Endearing, richly hued watercolor illustrations bring this touching story of friendship and bravery to life. The plot is fresh and original, the smoothly flowing narrative has sparks of suspense, and Bitsy is an irresistible heroine. A great book to curl up with on a snowy day.–Linda Staskus, Parma Regional Library, OH

K-Gr 2–“Jack was asleep, but something wakes him up. Jack has a mission. But what is it?” What looks like a flying radio has advised him to recover the famous painting, which has been stolen by two “crooked crooks” who seem to want nothing more than to paint a mustache on her. This story draws inspiration from spy stories and old-time radio serials. It’s full of secret-agent gadgets, rhetorical questions, and some outrageously dangerous situations. The comic illustrations, done with acrylic paints, strike an effective balance between mock gravity and overt silliness. The plot may be the book’s weakest part. As the events unfold, they verge on seeming random rather than inspired. While some readers may be amused, others will be confused. An interesting endnote describes an actual theft of the Mona Lisa. All in all, a fun but nonessential purchase.–Lauralyn Persson, Wilmette Public Library, IL

Gr 1-3–One morning, Nate wakes up to find an Opposite–a mischievous-looking, pointy-nosed individual with a transparent body–in his bedroom. Thanks to his unwanted visitor, whenever Nate tries to do things correctly, the opposite happens. For example, milk ends up on the ceiling instead of on his cereal. No one else can see the Opposite, and every time Nate points it out, it isn’t there anymore. The boy finally figures out a solution to his problem, turning his phrases around to express the converse of his true intent. When he declares, “I mean…there isn’t an Opposite standing right in front of me,” the creature is finally exposed. Interesting patterns and colors surround the bright white faces and rosy cheeks of the characters in the stylized illustrations. The figures are starker and more sharply angled than those featured in John Burningham’s work, but they possess the same air of tongue-in-cheek humor and sophistication. Though not a first purchase, this book would make an interesting choice for storytime or a discussion of opposites.–Genevieve Gallagher, Murray Elementary School, Charlottesville, VA

PreS-Gr 1–Sonny, Mama, Papa, Grandma, and Grandpa Shivers find themselves living in a strangely cold and dark place. Grandpa feels an earthquake coming; the world begins to shake, a great blazing light shows forth, and a monster appears, reaching out and out until…“PHOOMPH!!!” The earthquake is over, the monster is gone, and the Shivers are plunged back into darkness. First, Cheesy Square disappears, and then Jelly is taken. Papa ponders their living conditions and sets off to find the family a warmer place to live. He climbs to the top of Buttery Cliff and the world begins to shake, a great blazing light shows forth, a monster appears, and Buttery Cliff and Papa are gone. Grandpa, Mama, and Grandma leave in a similar manner, and Sonny is left alone. He decides to face the monsters and climbs onto Purple Boulders. He is snatched up by a creature who smiles and announces, “Mom! Look what I found! The last magnet!” Sonny is flying and then “PLUNK!” lands on the side of the fridge next to his family, who are all proudly stuck to the door, holding up important papers. Zelinsky’s refrigerator world comes alive with the cold, the darkness, and the terror of the earthquakes, blazing lights, and creatures who snatch items and family members away from each other. Manushkin’s humor softens the scary aspects of the story. A quirky and satisfying selection for those with a palate for adventure.–Rebecca Sheridan, Easttown Library & Information Center, Berwyn, PA

Gr 3-5–Mimi is a mystery writer who travels the world with her husband, “Papa,” and their grandchildren Christina, 10, and Grant, 7. In Pyramid, the four travelers arrive in Cairo and are immediately thrown into a sinister mystery involving gun-toting thieves and deadly threats. The children are pursued by would-be tomb robbers and help solve the mystery when they run straight into the arms of Papa and a policeman. In Colosseum, Christina finds a mysterious message in a newspaper and immediately notices men in black trench coats everywhere. Unbeknownst to Mimi and Papa, the siblings try to solve the puzzling message that warns of a strange happening at the arena. With their new friends Luigi and Francesca, they explore the country, enjoy Carnivale, and discover that what they thought was a sinister plot is actually an audition for a movie. Both stories contain interesting facts about the history and culture of the settings. The story lines are similar, with interesting beginnings but disappointing endings. Surprisingly, Grant and Christina receive little adult supervision as they wander the foreign cities. Mary Pope Osborne’s “Magic Tree House” series (Random) is a better choice for adventure lovers.–Alison Grant, Ruby S. Thomas Elementary School, Las Vegas, NV

PreS-Gr 2–This deceptively simple story with a comic-book feel is a paean to creativity and friendship across cultures. When Zuzu smiles at the new boy next door and he doesn’t smile back, she thinks that he may need a telescope; she makes one and delivers it to his home. When he doesn’t appear outside, she thinks that perhaps he needs sunglasses, and so she makes him a pair. Finally, her “wishing cake” (bread and jam piled in layers and a dandelion on top) draws him out of the house and overcomes a language barrier, making him smile back. The mixed-media artwork has an almost computer-generated look, with pictures of real bread and photographic negatives worked into the panels. The minimalist text is included either in narrative boxes or dialogue bubbles. Zuzu’s large face, square eyes, and red hair bring to mind the Powerpuff girls and other recent cartoons and, as such, may appeal to children despite the message-driven story. Older preschoolers and beginning readers might appreciate the protagonist’s persistence and clever ideas.–Amy Lilien-Harper, The Ferguson Library, Stamford, CT

K-Gr 3–The poignancy of two boys who can be friends only at night is revealed brilliantly in both text and rich watercolor art. Willie’s dad, a starter in the Negro leagues, expects that his son will pitch in the majors. Abe’s Jewish grandfather, a violinist in the old country before World War II, is sure that his grandson will be the next Jascha Heifetz. What neither man knows is that the boys have been sharing their talents across the alley at night. When Abe’s grandfather discovers that it’s Willie’s beautiful music he has been hearing, he invites him to perform at the temple. As Willie’s dad, Abe’s grandfather, and the two boys walk there, people stare at them, and Willie’s dad says, “Ignorance comes in as many colors as talent.” Nobody wants to sit by Willie and his father in the temple, but the boy is as victorious at the recital as Abe is at the baseball game later that afternoon. Best of all, supported by their loving families, the expectation is that they now can be friends in the light. With lovely art that captures the joy both boys feel about their respective talents, this endearing picture book offers a compelling message about overcoming prejudice.–Alexa Sandmann, Kent State University, OH

PreS-Gr 1–This simple, yet well-conceived concept book depicts several types of tools used in various professions, with two spreads devoted to each one. The first shows 6 to 10 clearly labeled items; the page turn reveals the name of the related occupation printed in large, bold letters on the left and a picture of someone using the tools on the right. For example, illustrations of an open-end wrench, bolt, etc., are followed by the word “Mechanic” and a picture of a man in a uniform fixing a motorcycle, all surrounded by white space. Done in Adobe Illustrator, the objects are shown to scale and with just enough detail to satisfy inquisitive young minds. This excellent easy reader is a must for updating those well-worn titles in your collection. Pair it with Lola M. Schaefer’s Toolbox Twins (Holt, 2006) for a tool-themed storytime.–Martha Simpson, Stratford Library Association, CT

K-Gr 3–The first day of school takes on a surreal aspect as Little Tooth, a long-eared bunny, tries to fall asleep on the eve of the big event. The artwork’s unusual perspectives emphasize the wide-eyed rabbit who lies awake in her huge bed. In the morning, she sets off carrying a shoulder bag containing a disproportionately long, sharp-pointed pencil. She walks through a barred gate, follows a stream of bunnies into a building, and hurries through a curving corridor. She enters a crowded room and takes the only empty seat at a tall table. Looking at the expectant faces in front of her, she gathers her courage, and says, “I’m your teacher. It’s my first day of school as well.” While the simple text presents a clever twist on first-day jitters, youngsters might find the acrylic and colored-pencil illustrations unsettling. The distorted visual perspectives, swirling hues, and dreamlike quality create a disturbing, tension-filled atmosphere. The stark depictions of the school and classroom are frightening and off-putting, and Little Tooth’s anxious facial expressions add to the uneasy mood. While the story ends on a reassuring note, apprehensive first-timers might come away more worried than comforted.–Linda Staskus, Parma Regional Library, OH

PreS-Gr 2–In spare, rhyming text, a boy and his father, a builder, explore the site of the child’s new school. Wearing hard hats, they watch throughout the year as the bulldozer clears the field and the cement mixer pours the foundation, etc., until the building is ready for the first day of classes. Bold acrylic and colored-pencil pictures give the oversize book great appeal–it opens from the bottom up, and the striking illustrations are done from the boy’s perspective looking up at the huge machines. The boy concludes, “And when I’m a grown-up, I hope I will be/a builder like Dad with a helper like me!” The book will be enthusiastically welcomed by youngsters fascinated with construction and big machines. It is also an engaging father/son story.–Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA

K-Gr 2–Cookie is one smart dog. She can read and write, a talent Mom wishes would rub off on her two kids, Nash and Duffy. The heavy-handed message comes through loud and clear when the pup spells out “smoke smell” instead of “snorkel” at a spelling bee and warns the school that there’s a fire. In a fairy-tale ending, the whole family, including video-game addict Nash, is now converted to reading. The colorful and whimsical illustrations are quite good, reminiscent of the work of Diane deGroat and Marc Simont. Readers love stories of smart canines who teach people lessons they need to learn, as in Peggy Rathmann’s Officer Buckle and Gloria (Putnam, 1995), but this one lacks subtlety. The author seems to be trying to teach too many lessons here–fire safety and that reading is more productive than drawing or playing video games. A better choice to inspire the practical value of reading is Susan Meddaugh’s Hog-Eye (Houghton, 1995). Nez shows more promise as an illustrator.–Debbie Whitbeck, West Ottawa Public Schools, Holland, MI

PreS-Gr 2–A wide-awake child discovers that the sheep that she was literally counting on to help her doze off are fast asleep in a huge woolly pile at the foot of her bed. Exploring other options, she decides to “Count cows in the meadow/Instead of the sheep.” But they are also snoozing in the moonlight. With her teddy bear by her side, she peeks in on pigs snoring in the mud, robins dreaming in their nest, and cats snuggled up on the sofa. McPhail’s charming watercolor-and-ink illustrations are infused with warmth and are a lovely complement to the gentle, rhyming lullaby. The final scene shows all of the animals tenderly watching over the child tucked into bed, tired out from counting and drifting off to sleep. This cozy tale is sure to become a bedtime favorite.–Linda Ludke, London Public Library, Ontario, Canada

K-Gr 4–Reminiscent of “The Shoemaker and the Elves,” this story features a doubting man who eventually comes to believe in fairies and to rely upon their help. When the king invites all of his subjects to a royal ball, Finn the tailor works day and night making gowns for the maidens of the kingdom. He is surprised when a tiny winged creature appears and asks him to sew beautiful dresses for the fairies as well. He promises to have them ready in the morning, but instead goes back to sleep, and in the morning, the fairy’s magical scissors destroy the finished ball gowns. Finn fears for his life if the king finds out what has happened, and the fairies take pity on him. Together they make new frocks even more beautiful than the first. As the weary fairies sleep, Finn realizes that he has no cloth left, but his ingenuity saves the day. Soft-edged pastel paintings depict human characters with rounded faces and bulbous noses and pencil-thin, pointy-eared fairies. Finn’s thatch-roofed cottage gives the setting a European flavor. Despite a slight sequencing problem with the maidens picking up their gowns, the art is largely successful. The glowing hues perfectly capture the nighttime wonder of the fairy visits, and the ball scenes are enchanting. This gentle story makes a good read-aloud and will find a ready audience with fairy-tale fans.–Mary Jean Smith, Southside Elementary School, Lebanon, TN

PreS-Gr 3–Each night, Henry asks his dad to tell him about when he was small, and his father relates how very small he really was: “…we used to give you baths in the teapot…,” and “…we took the toy castle out of the aquarium and you were king of it.” This is obviously an enjoyable nighttime ritual and it always ends with the child asking, “'Dad, is all that true?’ 'Well,’ says his dad, 'don’t you remember?’” The minimal text is accompanied by delicate illustrations. Subtle coloring and ample white space add to the book’s tranquil feel. A lovely title to share one-on-one, and sure to start many family rituals.–Wendy Woodfill, Hennepin County Library, Minnetonka, MN

Gr 2-4–Kiki lives in Los Angeles, but her family is from the Tiwa tribe of the Taos Pueblo in New Mexico, and she is visiting there for the first time since she was a baby. As Kiki experiences baking bread in an adobe oven, shares her family’s trust in the guidance of the Creator, and discovers a common bond with others in the Pueblo community, readers learn about her culture. Realistic acrylic paintings emphasize people and their environment with intense earth colors. The praying posture of Kiki and her mother conveys the wind’s powerful yet peaceful movement in harmony with the Red Road, a Native cultural attitude of responsibility and positive actions that is defined in the glossary. Border patterns of Pueblo and Plains tribal origin provide additional continuity between the clear, sequential text and evocative art, which together create an authentic work for use one-on-one or to foster classroom discussion about ethnic diversity and identity.–Julie R. Ranelli, Kent Island Branch Library, Stevensville, MD

K-Gr 3–Palatini and Cole follow up their hilarious Bad Boys (HarperCollins, 2003) with another pun-filled adventure replete with tomfoolery, fairy-tale references, and attempted cookie thievery. Willy and Wally are still “Bad. Bad. Really, really bad.” When a baker’s little treat hops off the cookie sheet and is on the lam, the wily wolves pose as detectives and attempt to capture the delicious runaway. After going out on a limb fails to land the prize, the duo switch gears and try plan B, disguising themselves as Hansel and Gretel. Failing again, they experience another moment of “brain ditto” and plan to trap the runaway with honey. But the spicy cookie continually taunts Willy and Wally with the refrain sure to be repeated by children: “Na-na-ni-na-na! Lookee! Lookee!/You can’t get me. I’m one smart cookie!” Eventually the sassy cookie gets his comeuppance in the form of a hungry croc, and, although their attempts at capturing and snacking are repeatedly foiled, the scheming wolves find a new target. Those who enjoyed this dastardly duo in the previous title are sure to get a kick out of this entry, which will make for a rollicking read-aloud.–Piper L. Nyman, formerly at Fairfield Civic Center Library, CA

Gr 3-5–Case is used to hearing the thunder of applause for his mother’s acting skills, his father’s horse-jumping championships, and his sister’s swimming accomplishments. He is looking for his moment in the spotlight, and is sure that at least one upcoming event will provide the opportunity. However, hilarious mishaps ensue at the talent show and the science fair, and he breaks his arm at the junior horse show. He can’t even burp the alphabet like his friend Harry. Things finally start to look up when a stray dog follows him home. No ordinary canine, Noah can answer the telephone and turn out the lights. When Case starts winning agility trials with the pup, he finally hears the applause that he has craved. His winning days are short-lived, however, when he learns that Noah is a service dog to a disabled girl. Case must then face the difficult decision of choosing what is best for the dog and placing someone else’s needs before his own. Black-and-white watercolor illustrations add to this satisfying, though somewhat predictable chapter book.–Michele Shaw, formerly at Yorkshire Academy, Houston, TX

Gr 2-4–Clementine, a not-so-common third grader, knows her way around the principal’s office as well as she does the art-supply closet. Daily rituals take on a different view when seen from her eyes. She’s constantly being told that she needs to “pay attention,” but to her mind she is paying attention and making astute observations. Whether looking out the window during the Pledge of Allegiance at the janitor locked in an embrace with the lunch lady or dealing with a pesky pigeon problem at her apartment building, her concentration is always focused. Clementine goes to great lengths to be friends with fourth-grade neighbor, Margaret, but more times than not, both girls end up in trouble. Humorous scenarios tumble together, blending picturesque dialogue with a fresh perspective as only the unique Clementine can offer. When the protagonist pleads to skip school because of a self-inflicted haircut fiasco, she tries to convince her mom that she must have caught arthritis from old Mrs. Jacobi or has possibly come down with the “heartbreak of sore irises.” Frazee’s engaging pen-and-ink drawings capture the energy and fresh-faced expressions of the irrepressible heroine. And even though she confesses that “I do not think fathers should be comedians,” her parents are portrayed as being fairly cool. A delightful addition to any beginning chapter-book collection.–Cheryl Ashton, Amherst Public Library, OH

K-Gr 3–Perl begins with an outlandish premise: a boy explains to his teacher that, counting himself, there are 93 members in his family, including (but not limited to) 27 owls, 11 dogs, some lions, tigers, armadillos, and frogs, a pygmy hippo named Bernice, Mommy and Daddy, 10 cats, his sister’s gerbil, “Six goldfish, and my sisters,/Darlene and Winifred.” The boy describes what happens at mealtime, in the car, during bath time, and at bedtime. Perl’s verses are bouncy and matter-of-fact: “When all are finished bathing,/We dry the pets with towels./My sisters mop the bathroom floor/While I blow-dry the owls.” The illustrations make what might have been a mildly silly book into a comic masterpiece, with innocent characters that are impervious to the bizarre. Lester adds magical touches like a fish holding up a sign that says “No Anchovies” when the family is ordering pizza. This is, of course, a counting book. Members of the family are introduced at different times, and kids will very likely want to keep tabs on which and how many animals have been mentioned so far. There’s a tally sheet, kept by the teacher, at the end of the story, and readers can go back and forth to make sure she’s counted correctly. Lester’s visual jokes are a pretty nice reward for doing arithmetic.–Susan Weitz, formerly at Spencer-Van Etten School District, Spencer, NY

Gr 1-5–This unusual story of a melancholy prince, cursed to fall in love with three oranges, will be unfamiliar to most children, though it is Prokofiev’s most-often-performed opera. It opens and closes with remarks to the audience by Pantaloon, a clownish figure dressed in the style of Italian commedia dell’arte. In between readers meet a sick, then lovesick prince; a worried king; a merry court jester; a helpful wizard; a vicious witch with evil assistants; a giant cook; and, of course, a beautiful princess. The strange tale is matched by Gaudasinska’s modern, somewhat surreal illustrations. The muted palette of salmony pink, burnt orange, and limey green is distinctive. The long-nosed, round-eyed characters are lively and appealing. The first volume in the series, this book will be especially useful for music teachers introducing opera to young audiences.–Robin L. Gibson, Granville Parent Cooperative Preschool, OH

PreS-Gr 1–When P.U. Zorilla needs work, Mayor Tootlebee does his utmost to find the right duties for the skunk. He tries him as a school-bus driver, a popcorn seller at baseball games, and assistant at a pet shop. But each job ends promptly when P.U. gets upset and the inevitable odorous cloud emerges (to a chorus of “PEE-U-U-U-U!” from surrounding offendees). He ends up as the town’s police chief. The funky, somewhat homely art uses a mixture of paint and collage to create a minimalist, almost childlike effect. The characters are set against bright, solid backgrounds that barely contain the action. Dav Pilkey’s Dog Breath!: The Horrible Trouble with Hally Tosis (Scholastic, 1994) mines the same territory with more success, although children who can’t get enough of gross will enjoy this innocent stinker’s escapades.–Marge Loch-Wouters, Menasha Public Library, WI

PreS-Gr 1–The beautiful photographs of adorable babies from diverse backgrounds and their parents are what stand out in this simple picture book. Each photo features a simple interaction between parent and child, such as playing peek-a-boo or hugging. The crisp, color close-ups clearly show the children’s expressions and actions. The illustrations are enhanced by bold background colors that are seamlessly coordinated with the clothing. The sparse text can be a little confusing, and it’s tricky to get the right flow when reading aloud. “Mmmm, baby, hug me, hugging you, hugging me, hugging you!” or “Wow, baby! Look at you, waving at me, waving at you, waving at me.” This minor weakness can be overlooked as the pictures are so engaging that children will insist on looking at them time and again.–Catherine Callegari, Gay-Kimball Library, Troy, NH

K-Gr 3–This zany, rhyming, cumulative tale is carefully designed, humorously detailed, and appropriately silly. It starts and ends with a tree and features a colorful array of first woodland, and then escaped circus creatures that take up residence in its branches. A new font, including hand-lettering, announces each new arrival. Paintings created in oils and mixed media portray a jumble of animals cavorting across the pages, testing viewers’ memory and visual skills. Budding artists and sophisticated fans of search-and-find books.–Debbie Stewart Hoskins, Grand Rapids Public Library, MI

PreS-Gr 2–Sam acts very brave around his friends, going down the slide headfirst and standing on the swings. However, although he would never admit it to his buddies, he is scared at bedtime and worries about monsters and ghosts hiding in his room. One day, when a “gigantic hairy spider with extra-long legs” lands on his hand, he begins to cry in front of his pal Max. That night, Sam is afraid that Max will tell everyone about his reaction and call him “Scaredy-cat Sam.” His father calmly explains that “everyone is scared of something,” helping him confront his night anxieties as well as his concern about his peers. With Dad’s encouragement, Sam gains a new confidence and is no longer afraid of being called a scaredy-cat. Goossens’s bright-hued, fuzzy-edged oil illustrations exude charm and the exuberance of the animal characters. Although the subject is not original, both text and art deftly reflect the targeted age group, and youngsters will relate to Sam’s plight, making the book a sound selection for discussing fears.–Piper L. Nyman, formerly at Fairfield Civic Center Library, CA

K-Gr 3–After a cub’s mother leaves him to fend for himself, he ventures away from his forest home and close to neighborhoods and people. While the young bear is initially fearful of humans, he soon realizes that tasty items await him in backyards. One autumn afternoon, a family contacts the game warden, and the animal is soon safely trapped and returned to the forest, where he can continue his life as a wild bear. An author’s note offers details about black bears and ideas for keeping backyards less tempting. A good read-aloud for the kindergarten crew, Rockwell’s text is simple and straightforward enough for beginning readers. The pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations on toned paper are lovely. This combination of fiction and fact is most appealing.–Andrea Tarr, Corona Public Library, CA

PreS-Gr 1–Four intrepid youngsters set out to find a moose–a “long-leggy…branchy-antler, dinner-diving, bulgy-nose moose.” They’ve never seen one, but they know what to look for. Their investigations take them through the woods, into the swamp, behind the bushes, and up a rocky hillside before finally reaching their goal. In the end, they find not one moose, but more than they ever imagined. Root’s minimalist story bears a strong resemblance to “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt,” but without the breathless backtracking that makes reading that tale so much fun. The text here is not strict rhyming, but there is a singsong effect that borders on annoying baby-speak, such as when the children climb the “rocky-blocky, lumpy-bumpy, fuzzy-muzzy hillside.” Cecil’s illustrations, done in oil, have a fuzzy-muzzy look of their own, with evident brushstrokes and earthy, woodsy shades of green, brown, and gray. The perspective of the pictures, leading readers’ eyes down, at times gives the impression that the children are themselves being watched by the moose. An animal is in fact hidden in each picture, although many youngsters will need help to spot it. Because of the seek-and-find layout, the book will work better one-to-one than with a group.–Kara Schaff Dean, Needham Public Library, MA

K-Gr 3–Once again, this team has used the familiar tune as the framework for a cumulative counting verse, this time with winter activities both indoors and out as the focal point. The verses themselves are a good fit for the melody, but they would be unremarkable if not accompanied by the clever and humorous illustrations. Each of the eight children in this busy classroom has a distinct personality, revealed through meticulous and consistent attention to detail on every spread. The child obsessed with horses takes every opportunity to make them, even as snowflake cutouts; another child dances throughout, and in the final spread creates a version of Degas’ Little Dancer out of snow. While the book would work well as a read- or sing-aloud, with so much to pore over and absorb in the art, it is best used for one-on-one sharing. A surefire choice to spice up the dreariest winter day.–Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ

PreS-Gr 2–Rotner has created a wonderful book with minimal text (“Taste a fruity pop. See a kite flying high”) and glorious, full-bleed color photographs that evoke the sights, the smells, the sounds, and the look of things at the beach. Children are shown eating watermelon, listening to a seashell, running along the shore at sunset, and so on. A fisherman and his catch are depicted, as are fluffy clouds and crashing waves, and the gritty sand. Children who have never been to the beach may not be as thrilled with this title as those who have, but the message regarding how we use our senses comes across effortlessly.–Cynde Suite, Bartow County Library System, Adairsville, GA

PreS-Gr 1–One by one, a group of animals assembles in the woods, repeating the titular exclamation, then asking, “Wolf, are you there?” The left side of each spread depicts the growing number of creatures cavorting among the tree trunks, engaged in fun and games, while the facing pages show the wolf responding to each one, describing his actions, e.g., “I am putting on my socks….I am putting on my jacket….” At the beginning of the story, the small wolf is in the background but, with every inquiry, he appears larger, until his large face fills the page. Once he finishes dressing, he shouts, “…I am very hungry! And I’m going to eat…,” leaving the animals quaking with fear. The tension is broken as he sits down to his mother’s pancakes before heading off to school. The artwork was created on digital prints using graphite pencil. The pages are clean, focusing attention on the simply drawn but wildly expressive animals. The effect is very pleasing. The story, based on a traditional French and Latin-American song, is fun to read aloud since each page includes the repeated chant. A surefire storytime pleaser and an ideal choice for dialogic reading.–Linda Zeilstra Sawyer, Skokie Public Library, IL

PreS-Gr 2–Mr. Putter and his cat, Tabby, live next to helpful Mrs. Teaberry and her dog, Zeke. Because she is always cooking for him, Mr. Putter decides that he will serve tea at her new knitting club. Things go wrong when Tabby runs away with the end of a ball of yarn attached to a sweater that’s been seven months in the making, and Zeke runs off with part of a guest’s vegetable-covered hat. Mr. Putter must then use all his charm to calm the ladies, but they have the last laugh. As in previous titles, Rylant writes in a clear voice and uses simple sentences and easy vocabulary. Howard’s funny colored pencil, watercolor, and gouache drawings catch the emotional presence of each character and the animals’ antics. Another successful addition to a popular series.–Kathleen Pavin, Purdy Elementary School Library, Fort Atkinson, WI

PreS–Young Marie is afraid of the monsters that appear in her room each night. Her ingenious solution is to snip the moon out of the sky and keep it in her room since, as everyone knows, monsters are afraid of the light. Unfortunately, this idea causes havoc with the village cats, who demand their moon back. Luckily, the Cat King arrives at a solution that satisfies everyone’s needs, but readers may not feel so rewarded. While the bold, colorful cartoon illustrations and the simple text are accessible and inviting, the story lacks logic. The notion of a city populated by anthropomorphic cats is charming but seems startling given that Marie is a human girl, and no further exposition is given. The ending will make readers smile but it feels like the conclusion of a folktale without an introduction. Overall, the story has many appealing points, but its structure and narrative feel patchy and incomplete. The book is brightened by Satrapi’s illustrations, which are a vibrant treat. The use of eye-popping colors and nuanced expressions make the monsters just a little bit intimidating but not overly frightening.–Tamara E. Richman, Somerset County Library System, Bridgewater, NJ

PreS-Gr 2–In this pleasant rhyming book, a father and son are shown using the implements in their trusty toolboxes. Each verse describes two items and jobs they can do, with particular attention paid to the accompanying sounds: “With hammers and nails,/they bang and tap…/steps that squeak,/stools that creak.” Acrylic paintings in mostly primary colors show Dad and Vincent making repairs indoors and out. Large sans serif letters make the text easy to read, and the names of the featured implements are set in bold colors. The cozy pictures perfectly depict a father-son bonding experience, while giving a lesson on identifying common household tools. Taro Miura’s Tools (Chronicle, 2006) shows a larger variety of equipment, while this book has more of a story. Purchase it if you need more titles for budding fix-it guys or father-and-son stories.–Martha Simpson, Stratford Library Association, CT

Gr 2-5–Wiley and Grampa triumph over the supernatural forces invading their hometown. In the first book, they meet Colonel Dracula and his “Mudsucker”–a blood-guzzling vampire truck. The next title puts toxic borscht to good use in battling an army of zombies that arrives uninvited at a backyard barbeque. Nothing seems to faze Wiley and his grandparents, who are rather inventive when it comes to vanquishing their enemies. Each story finishes with a “Crackpot Snapshot” game, where readers must find all of the small differences between two almost identical pictures. With black-and-white cartoons on every page, this series is similar in appearance and theme to Jim Benton’s “Franny K. Stein” (S & S) and Dav Pilkey’s “Captain Underpants” (Scholastic) books, making it a welcome high-interest choice for younger or reluctant readers.–Kathleen Meulen, Blakely Elementary School, Bainbridge Island, WA

Gr 2-4–An engaging and funny addition to the series. As Nate hears a radio report about a giant turkey that wreaks havoc in a supermarket parking lot and then disappears, his friend Claude comes in to tell him that he has just seen the large bird. A mystery is afoot, and Nate’s dog, Sludge, is the first to take on the case. Cousin Olivia Sharp flies in from San Francisco wearing her boa and tries to drum up some enthusiasm for a turkey search team. The wealthy girl uses her great knowledge of birds to solve the mystery. Large print, plenty of white space, good use of repetition, and frequent drawings allow early readers to enjoy the story.–Rebecca Sheridan, Easttown Library & Information Center, Berwyn, PA

PreS-Gr 1–Snug in her bed, a youngster hears a distant siren and dreams of firefighters’ brave escapades. With the refrain, “What happened was this,” she relates several imaginary adventures. The squad saves a castle full of princesses after a dragon blows on his food and starts a fire, cools a woman’s mouth after she eats a hot pepper, and rescues a boy who bounces off his bed and lands on Pluto. The girl also concocts personalities for the diverse crew members, down to their favorite foods. Finally, the firefighters come to ask for her help in extinguishing the stars from the night sky. Slater’s rhythmic, sometimes rhyming prose captures the child’s enthusiasm, though unusual phrasings may trip up unpracticed readers while sharing the book aloud. Ceccoli’s dreamy, luminescent paintings perfectly suit the story. The heroes’ round faces are kind and lovable. Observant youngsters will note that the firefighters’ “yellow and black boots” appear as yellow and blue, but this minor inconsistency will give way to delight at the image of the dragon at the table with fork and knife in hand, or the view up through city buildings of an exuberant boy tumbling through the air. A perfect choice for bedtime reading.–Jayne Damron, Farmington Community Library, MI

PreS-K–This bedtime story is likely to strike a chord with young listeners. A gentle, rhyming text intersperses train noises with a getting-ready-for-bed routine with a railroad-inspired theme. Brightly colored cartoon illustrations picture children in their beds being pulled along by the engine. They ride through tunnels, over bridges, and past fields of sheep. The words flow fairly well, with only a few minor skips, and the sounds mixed with bedtime sounds (“Rock-a, rock-a, rock-a, rock-a–Shhhhhhhhhhh! Shhhhhhhhhhh!”) will delight youngsters and have them chiming in. The acrylic-and-collage artwork curves around the spreads and encourages page turns. Clever backgrounds, including a sign that declares, “Dreamland 20 winks ahead,” ensure that there is plenty to look at, and the journey ends effectively with the children asleep and the words, “Good night, train./Good night.” Libraries in need of more train or bedtime books will find this a useful and enjoyable addition.–Amy Lilien-Harper, The Ferguson Library, Stamford, CT

PreS-Gr 2–When a plump pumpkin breaks off its vine, rolls away, and splatters into pieces, seeds scatter all over a farmer’s field. Over several years, these seeds grow into a mass of “roly-poly pumpkins.” One day a mighty wind sends them all hurtling down the hill to town, awakening the inhabitants with a roar “as loud as thunder.” The “golden avalanche” causes total confusion, but folks don’t really mind (“Who could stay a grouchy grumpkin/among those jolly, bumping pumpkins?”). The mayor decrees that every citizen must take one home to carve, and the rest are made into pies. That All Hallows’ Eve, the whole valley is aglow with brightly lit jack-o’-lanterns and the scent of spicy, sweet pumpkin treats. Lively cartoon acrylic paintings in autumn colors capture the general chaos of the frenzied townspeople and gleeful children. Descriptive action verbs, lots of wordplay, and occasional rhymes make this book a good read-aloud, as well as fun for youngsters to read on their own.–Sally R. Dow, Ossining Public Library, NY

K-Gr 2–Peggy the pig needs something to wear to a party. She finds nothing that suits her in town, but on her way home she notices a scarecrow dressed in a wonderful outfit. So each night, she sneaks out to the cornfield and takes a different item, replacing it with one of her old garments. On the evening of the party–“a dark and stormy night”–she is decked out in her purloined finery when the scarecrow arrives and demands, “Give me back my clothes!” The plot is similar to that of “The Teeny-Tiny Woman.” The difference is that Peggy returns to the field, scares the duds off the scarecrow, and reclaims the ensemble. This easy reader is sprinkled with colorful cartoon illustrations that depict the action and support the text. However, the story strikes an odd note as it seems to indicate that stealing is okay and, supposedly, even funny. While Thiesing’s other “Silly Thrillers” about this character were genuinely amusing and revolved around her naïveté, this one is not humorous or scary.–Elaine Lesh Morgan, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR

PreS–Another entry in a sweet series. It is autumn and Mouse, accompanied by Minka, a larger rodent wearing a pink jacket, go out to play. As they enjoy the day, Mouse learns about leaves, their colors and shapes, and the fun that comes from piling them up and jumping in them. When Minka hides in the heap, Mouse is confused, but readers will quickly see her tail curling above the fallen foliage. Bright hues evoke the season and realistically show the leaves in all their variety. Swirling brushstrokes and texture add interest to the paintings. Each spread has one or two simple sentences, and additional comments (“Pretty!” “Yippee!” “Whee!”) are spread throughout to add to the fun. This is a pleasant read-aloud for introducing autumn, and it will certainly be enjoyed where the other titles are popular.–Susan Lissim, Dwight School, New York City

PreS-K–While this book has beautiful, full-bleed illustrations, it seems to be a pitch for Heifer® International, an organization that gives farm animals to needy families worldwide. The theme is people and animals working together. The rhyming text tells what each contributes, such as eggs from the hen, work from the mule, and harvesting from the farmer; the verses end with the singsong refrain, “Giving to me, giving to you,/together there’s a lot we can do.” A description of the organization, a paragraph about Scholastic’s Read to Feed™ program, and testimonials from two actors on Malcolm in the Middle are included. Despite the lovely paintings and the noble cause, this book is lacking an essential element–a story.–Cynde Suite, Bartow County Library System, Adairsville, GA

Gr 1-3–Thanks to great teamwork, Beans and his friend Chester have led the Wildcats to the soccer championship play-off. But during practice, the boys collide, and Beans is left with a broken foot. Chester feels terrible, and the other players make him feel worse. He hides during the big game, but the coach has an idea that may bring the boy back to play, and Beans knows where to find his friend. This simply written book introduces several weighty themes: blame, guilt and forgiveness, friendship, and teamwork. The winning pass is made by a girl (one of several on the team), which broadens the appeal of the story. Cartoon illustrations add a little humor. The story is straightforward and will satisfy students who are beginning to read independently. There is enough substance for a first book report or a discussion of the social themes that are introduced.–Mary Hazelton, Elementary Schools in Warren & Waldoboro, ME

Gr 2-3–Emma doesn’t see herself as a superhero, but when she witnesses the biggest third-grader, Jared, tormenting EllRay, the littlest, she jumps into the fray before she can even consider the consequences. To everyone’s surprise, including her own, she manages to best the bully. He vows to take revenge. Adding insult to the threat of injury, EllRay is less than appreciative, and the other students are divided in their loyalties. Some say she shouldn’t have done “a boy thing” and call her “Super Emma” in a mocking tone. But when Jared tries to dump her in a garbage can during recess, EllRay beats him up, and the other classmates come round. This third adventure in the series once again portrays the plucky young heroine struggling with conflict resolution and the social issues that many children face. A smattering of whimsical black-and-white illustrations helps to move the story along. Emma should be a hit with fans of Amber Brown, Judy Moody, and Clarice Bean.–Debbie Lewis O’Donnell, Alachua County Library District, Gainesville, FL

Gr 2-5–Set in the rural South in the early 1920s, this simple, respectful story examines one community’s efforts to build a new school for African-American children with seed money provided by the Julius Rosenwald Fund. Each spread features a prose poem told in the voice of a student. Readers learn about the difficult decision to accept the challenge–which the Sears Roebuck executive extended to more than 5000 communities–and then to build a decent schoolhouse for the children of sharecroppers and other poor families. Land, lumber, and labor were all donated or purchased cheap; cast-off books and furnishings from more affluent communities appeared; and within a year, the students who used to study in a drafty shack walked into the first building they could truly call their own. Christie’s gouache and colored-pencil illustrations have the variegated look and stylized layout of collage art–a good complement to the child’s rough-around-the-edges narration. An afterword explains Rosenwald’s impact on thousands of poor black communities. An uplifting and inspiring story about the buildings that are all too frequently taken for granted.–Catherine Threadgill, Charleston County Public Library, SC

Gr 2-5–Tubman’s religious faith drives this handsome, poetic account of her escape to freedom and role in the Underground Railroad. The story begins with Tubman addressing God on a summer night as she is about to be sold south from the Maryland plantation where she and her husband live: “I am Your child, Lord; yet Master owns me,/drives me like a mule.” In resounding bold text, God tells her He means for her to be free. The story is sketched between passages of prayerful dialogue that keep Tubman from giving up and eventually call upon her to be “the Moses of [her] people.” Deep scenes of night fill many double pages as the dramatic paintings follow her tortuous journey, arrival in Philadelphia, and later trip to guide others. Shifting perspectives and subtle details, such as shadowy forest animals guarding her while she sleeps, underscore the narrative’s spirituality. Whether filled with apprehension, determination, or serenity, Tubman’s beautifully furrowed face is expressive and entrancing. A foreword briefly explains the practice of slavery and an appended note outlines Tubman’s life. The words and pictures create a potent sense of the harsh life of slavery, the fearsome escape, and one woman’s unwavering belief in God.–Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 1-3–A new adventure told in rhyme by the author of Atomic Ace: (He’s Just My Dad) (Albert Whitman, 2004). Boldly colored comic-book panels showing Ace in action are interspersed with the somewhat more mundane scenes of his son at home and at school. That is, until the worlds collide, when Atomic Ace’s nemesis, Roboconqueror, unleashes a robot army that invades the boy’s classroom. Ace is off in space protecting the planet and is too far away to rescue his son. Just when he is about to meet his doom, he is whisked away by another superhero–with a strangely familiar face. It is Energy Angel, aka Mom, who saves the day. It turns out that she had been quite the superhero until she had her son, and misses the old days. Dad enlists the services of the vanquished robot army to help with household duties to free up her time, and she is back in the superhero business. While some of the rhymes seem a bit forced, the story flows for the most part, and the bold, graphic layout with intricate details will attract readers. Purchase where the first book is popular.–DeAnn Okamura, San Mateo County Library, CA

Gr 1-3–Kali has always been proud of his father, who is the best snake catcher in their Indian village. But when he attends school, the children make fun of his Irula ways. They are disdainful of what Kali eats, and they shun him. Friendless and lonely, he dreads school. But one day the classroom is visited by a six-foot-long rat snake. With the children screaming and the teacher hiding under his desk, Kali grabs it and becomes the class hero. The text is smoothly written, with lots of cultural details. The story moves at a good pace, with excellent use of text that leaves readers anticipating what will happen when each page is turned. Natarajan’s stylized illustrations are a mixture of smaller pencil drawings and luscious larger paintings that seem to be done on silk. The endpapers resemble a beautiful batik fabric. Everything works together for an evocative presentation. This book has much to offer children learning about other cultures. It could also be used to begin discussions about bullying, prejudice, and acceptance.–Mary Hazelton, Elementary Schools in Warren & Waldoboro, ME

PreS-Gr 2–In this rhyming time-for-bed tale, a cat plays the role of adult and a teddy bear becomes the resistant youngster. With teeth brushed and story read, Sleepyhead is ready to be tucked in, but the bear procrastinates with pleas for “one more” book, cuddle, kiss, etc. Open picture books scattered across the floor and the images on a quilt provide inspiration for imaginary visual adventures as the youngster continues to put off the inevitable. Sleepyhead calls for “One more drink” while riding the waves on the back of a swordfish and “One more blanky” while floating on ice floes with penguins and walruses. Segal’s stylized watercolor illustrations play with size to great effect. A close-up of Sleepyhead requesting “One more hug” with outstretched arms spans two pages. The fonts are appropriately small for the patient kitten’s soothing phrases, “We’ve kissed our kiss, your quilt is spread,” and grow larger for the “Go to sleep” directives. Children will relish the playful bedtime rituals. Expect requests for this book to be read “one more time.”–Linda Ludke, London Public Library, Ontario, Canada

Gr 2-5–This offbeat picture book blends facts with bits of quirky, occasionally amusing speculation. Beginning with the composer’s birth in 1770 (the wild-haired infant cries to the tempo of his famed Fifth Symphony–“Wah Wah Wah Wah”), Winter reveals that the adult Beethoven lived in 39 different apartments in and around Vienna. If readers wonder why he relocated so often, the tongue-in-cheek text cites such reasons as forgetting to pay rent, the “hideous stinky” smell from a nearby cheese shop, and noise complaints from other residents. Beethoven brings his “five legless pianos” to each new abode, a constant headache for his movers, who always find the most roundabout and preposterously difficult way of transporting the instruments from place to place. Silly examples of “evidence” (e.g., we know that Beethoven played his pianos loudly because of the “Hundreds of cotton balls with traces of dried earwax” found in neighbors’ homes) are mixed with nuggets of truth (the maestro’s increasing deafness). The pen-and-ink and watercolor cartoon illustrations depict the frazzled-looking composer and play up the text’s humor. Unfortunately, the joke begins to wear thin, and the abrupt, anticlimactic conclusion may disappoint readers who manage to stick with the book until the end. There is not much here to capture the interest of those unfamiliar with Beethoven’s life and work. While young classical music buffs might enjoy this banal tale, it won’t have much to say to most children.–Joy Fleishhacker,School Library Journal

K-Gr 3–Harvey, last seen in Dog Show (Holt, 2004) is hip and energetic. Unfortunately, he tends to get a little carried away. When the Mayor of Bonesport asks him to be parade chairman for the town’s 250th birthday celebration, Harvey starts his ever-growing pile of lists. He loves parades, but his basset hound, Fred, hates them. Every time he tries to include his pup in the festivities, Fred declines. Winthrop’s tale of how the whole town celebrates is fun and quirky, with lots of humor. Of course, Fred ends up playing an important role, one that suits him perfectly. The acrylic paintings almost resemble photographs in their detail, and Fred’s expressions are priceless. Readers will pore over the crowd illustrations, laughing at all of the antics. While the book is funny, it also helps young readers realize that teamwork doesn’t always mean doing the same thing as everyone else.–Susan E. Murray, Glendale Public Library, AZ

PreS-Gr 1–When Charley leaves to visit his grandparents for summer vacation, his lowercase alphabet letters travel on a pencil to their hometown of Alphabet City. The little letters’ adventures include fixing up an old fire engine, cleaning M-u-d from a car, rescuing a C-a-t from a tree, and saving the day when the capital letters’ fire engine spins out of control and cannot get to the fire at the letter-making factory. Readers will enjoy this sweet story and have fun identifying letters in the text and illustrations. As in the Woods’ Alphabet Adventure (2001) and Alphabet Mystery (2003, both Scholastic), the pages are filled with 3-D-style digital artwork, creating a self-contained alphabet world.–Marilyn Ackerman, Brooklyn Public Library, NY

Gr 1-3–When Belinda wins the lead in the ballet Cinderella, her competitor, Miss Lola Mudge, is not happy. After all, Lola has the perfect-sized feet for the role, and she always gets what she wants. In a move worthy of an evil stepsister, she locks Belinda in a closet on opening night and takes over her part. But right before the ball scene, Belinda is rescued by the fairy godmother dancer and rejoins the production. The usurper continues to masquerade as Cinderella but there is no denying that the big glass slippers meant for Belinda will not fit her tiny feet. The heroine reclaims her rightful place on stage, and the thwarted girl quits dancing and finds her true calling as a hockey player. The illustrations give a real feel for the ballet while portraying the action and the characters’ varied emotions. Young’s third Belinda story is a highly enjoyable and original mix of the “Cinderella” fairy tale and ballet, and a true case of the shoe fitting.–Catherine Callegari, Gay-Kimball Library, Troy, NH

PreS–The classic rhyme is expanded into a story of Isabel, a precocious preschooler who has a mop of bright red curls. One day, after struggling to brush and comb her tangled locks, she gives herself a haircut. After snipping off one curl and then another, she is left with a motley head of hair. Finally, a visit to the beauty shop repairs the damage, and now Isabel is back to being a little girl who once “had a little curl, right in the middle of [her] forehead.” Bright, childlike cartoon drawings capture the mischievous child and her tolerant but wise parents. Many families will relate to this title.–Sally R. Dow, Ossining Public Library, NY

PreS-Gr 2–Big sister is feeling sorry for herself as she imagines how good life would be without her younger sibling. She wouldn’t have to share her room, her treats, or her tree house. She could read all day, hog the bathroom, and watch any TV program she wanted. As she sulks, little sister gradually works her way into her sibling’s heart with small acts of kindness. Finally big sister concedes that having a younger sister is not all bad. Wisely the author and illustrator resist the temptation to make the ending overly sentimental. Instead of hugs and kisses, the older girl offers her younger sibling a half smile. This is a re-release of a text originally published in 1966 by Harper & Row. Ben Shecter’s original illustrations featured two brothers. The new illustrations not only change the gender of the main characters, but also give the story a fresh, contemporary look. Karas’s art is bright and cartoonlike, with contrasting colors that give the simple figures energy. LeUyen Pham’s Big Sister, Little Sister (Hyperion, 2005) tells the story from the little sister’s perspective. Both are worthy offerings on the topic of sibling relations.–Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

PreS–A gentle, poetic text is illustrated in soft gouache-and-watercolor washes that depict scenes in the life of a boy from infancy, when his mother and father hold him close, to adulthood, when he is a parent himself. The words and pictures both extol the power of love and his parents’ hopes that he will “Grow and flourish.../Love and be loved” throughout his years. Somewhat in the vein of Robert Munsch’s Love You Forever (Firefly) and Sam McBratney’s Guess How Much I Love You (Candlewick, both 1995), this lovely book will find a home in most libraries.–Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA

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