Preschool to Grade 4

Gr 2–5—The soldier may be handsome and the princess lovely, but the old witch and the three giant dogs along with the beautifully developed settings really create the superb fairy-tale ambience of this robust telling of Andersen's tale. Ibatoulline's finely hatched pen drawings, washed in muted tones, resemble lithographs and have an appropriately old-fashioned look. His wide double-page scenes include broad vistas of the mountainous countryside with far-off palaces and close-up views of characters and actions. Mitchell's faithful retelling is a bit verbose at times, but Andersen himself tended to be wordy. The scraggly witch is quite wonderful, but of course she comes to a quick end. "So he cut her head off. Her body fell to the ground, and her head fell beside it." This is not a tale for the faint of heart, but it's a rich rendering of the durable, intriguing classic.—Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston

PreS-Gr 1—Joe the frog is back for another outing—this time at a family reunion. When all of his relatives gather for a cookout, he has trouble finding someone to play with as all of the other guests are either too busy or don't want to "go" with little Joe. Finally, he connects with Grandma, who is more than willing to spend some time with her grandson. Beginning readers will enjoy the rollicking rhyme and equally active art. They will also identify with Joe's need for attention and the endless refusals he receives. The book's design gives new readers a nice crisp background for the short and repetitive text. The pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations of the busy frog family pop against the white backgrounds. Anderson has compiled a variety of forms of rolling transportation that children will recognize—roller skates, scooters, baby strollers, skateboards, and, finally, Grandma's wheelchair, which affords Joe a chance to go. A book with a lot of child appeal.—Maura Bresnahan, High Plain Elementary School, Andover, MA

K-Gr 2—Arnold characterizes the good and bad twin princes and their like-minded horses in this featherbrained tale in which Old King Chanticleer decides that his successor will be determined by a horse race and a riddle. Verbal puns—"You crossed the road to help me" and "Last one back is a rotten egg"—gain significance when the cast is made up of players complete with waddles and beaks. Listeners are encouraged to solve the riddle and prompted with visual clues and verbal urging: "Last chance…." Arnold's stylized art with bold outlines, colored-pencil curlicues, and watercolor washes is most recognizable for the expressive googly eyes—something that might be duplicated with golf balls in 3-D. The book is fun, but the nuances might be lost on a young audience.—Janet S. Thompson, Chicago Public Library

K-Gr 3—In Azore's second picture book featuring Wanda, the girl finds tadpoles in a puddle and takes them to school. Her teacher sets up an aquarium, and, as days pass, the creatures begin their transformation, ultimately needing to be released back into the natural world. The children are sad to say good-bye to them, and Wanda convinces her teacher that she will be able to take care of some of the frogs at home. Chaos ensues when they escape from her room and surprise her unsuspecting mother. All ends well as Wanda and her father agree that the now-collected frogs need to return to the creek. He promises to consider building a backyard pond so that one of her frogs might visit in the summer. The book is perfect for a read-aloud tie-in to a unit on frogs or a frog-themed storyhour. The brightly hued, chalk-pastel cartoon illustrations add to the story's charm. Youngsters will enjoy studying the changes to the tadpoles as they develop and looking for the small creatures hiding in Wanda's home. A neat addition for spring.—Maura Bresnahan, High Plain Elementary School, Andover, MA

PreS-K—Baby Rooster is having a difficult time finding the right phrase to use to wake up the farm. After he asks the pigs what they say, he tries "cock-a-doodle-oink-oink!" to no avail. He learns each animal's sound and incorporates it into his wake-up call, but nothing works. The wise old owl advises him to listen very carefully the next morning, and then he will know what to say. Baby Rooster follows the owl's suggestion and hears the appropriate call. His delivery is not so accurate at first, and he gives out with "cock-a-noodle-noo!" "cock-a-poodle-poo!" before he hits upon the iconic cry and the desired result. Children will giggle at and identify with Baby Rooster's silly bumblings. Busby's full-page cartoons in colorful acrylics lightheartedly reflect the buoyant text. While the ever-popular mixed-up rooster story has been done many times, this title could serve as a replacement for out-of-print variants.—Rachel G. Payne, Brooklyn Public Library, NY

PreS-Gr 2—Using rhyming, rhythmic language, Baker expands the traditional nursery rhyme into an around-the-clock adventure. The story begins as a small rodent scurries up to a grandfather clock standing in a field: "Hickory/dickory/dock,/the mouse/ran up/the clock./The clock/struck one…/it's time for fun!" As the timepiece marks each hour, another creature—a bird, a snake, a rabbit, etc.—interacts with it, and then takes off to follow its own pursuits: "Hickory/dickory/dock,/a pig/oinked at/the clock./Seven/was struck…/he rolled in muck!" Finally, at midnight, the mouse hurries off to bed beneath a star-filled sky. The short stanzas make this tale appealing to beginning readers as well as a good read-aloud for small children. Large, bold illustrations done in Adobe Photoshop capture the whimsy of the text and will hold the attention of the youngest listeners. The boldly delineated clock face, with hands pointing clearly to each hour, may also help with basic time-telling skills. A useful and fun selection.—Sally R. Dow, Ossining Public Library, NY

Gr 2–5—Lionel lives on Manhattan's Lower East Side in the early 1900s. His older brothers make deliveries, peddle chestnuts and ices, and shine shoes to help out. His sister works in their mother's dress shop, but the nine-year-old spends his time drawing and sketching on the backs of envelopes and shopping lists. His parents, Jewish immigrants, hope he'll outgrow this "useless habit," but his teacher nurtures the young artist by treating him to a trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Before the outing, he worries needlessly about the nickel trolley fare, searching the sidewalks for found money. While the ride itself is thrilling, the museum is like a "palace" with "polished stone floors" and breathtaking works framed in gold. The dark-hued artwork is brightened occasionally by such objects as the yellow trolley, multicolored marbles, a flower cart, or a lady's dress. Details like a horse and carriage, organ grinder, and fishmonger bring the period to life, though many of the characters' faces look confusingly alike. Most pictures are full spread with text in a vertical frame to one side. The narration is both accessible and engaging. Share this nostalgic story before a trip to an art museum or to enrich social-studies units on New York.—Barbara Auerbach, New York City Public Schools

PreS-Gr 1—Born on a spring day, a baby fox is taught the necessary survival skills by his patient parents. The kit is eager to explore the world on his own and asks from time to time, "Am I ready?" "No, fox, no," is the reply. In the fall, a more competent creature doesn't ask, but states, "Now I'm ready," and his mother responds, "Go, fox, go." The lyrical text reads easily, and one slightly changed sentence is repeated throughout: in the spring, "And the rain comes and goes"; at night, "And the stars come and go"; and in the fall, "And the days come and go." Rich, saturated colors fill the spreads with the seasons' deep hues as they depict the young animal's progress toward independence. Van Gogh-like sweeps of color indicate tall grasses, while splotches of paint deftly reveal the changing hues of leaves and sky. The endpapers show a silvery landscape bathed in moonlight. This picture book is a tender tribute to family.—Maryann H. Owen, Racine Public Library, WI

K-Gr 3—This stunning book spotlights the flora and fauna of Florida's Okefenokee Swamp, but it is applicable to most Southern swamps and bayous. The text is a version of the familiar poem "Over in the Meadow," with impeccable meter: "Deep in the swamp, in a hollow cypress knee,/Lived a mother flame bird and her little chicks Three./'Sweet-sweet!' trilled the mother. 'Sweet-sweet,' trilled the Three./So they trilled loud and long in their hollow cypress knee." Lies's meticulous and glowing acrylic illustrations feature myriad shades of green, yellow, and blue, calling to mind an Audubon painting. Concluding pages discuss each of the featured species, accompanied by detailed illustrations and interesting facts on the animal babies. This appealing title is a perfect combination of text and art.—Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA

K-Gr 5—Fair Kathleen, a princess with hair like autumn leaves, will only wed a man with "a daring soul, a keen wit, and a merry heart." She sets her suitors the task of winning a leprechaun's pot of gold in a single day. Traveling Tom is a minstrel who finds a leprechaun on a hillside "where wildflowers were scattered across an emerald meadow like stars in a green sky." With fine harp tunes and grand tales retold, he persuades the fellow that gold only weighs down the pockets and does nothing to lighten the heart. Tom is victorious, yet the leprechaun acquires songs, stories, and fair lasses on the open road in the bargain. Potter's ink, gouache, and collage paintings evoke the Irish countryside as surely as Bateman's lilting storyteller's voice. Through this book filled with rainbows, shamrocks, green patchwork hills, and floating clouds, youngsters will find themselves transported to the Ireland of legend.—Mary Jean Smith, Southside Elementary School, Lebanon, TN

K-Gr 3—Sieta, a young African girl, is having a difficult time accepting her "home now" with her aunt in a busy town. She longs for the life she knew with her loving parents in a friendly village. During a school trip to the elephant park, she forms a special bond with a baby elephant—also an orphan. The connection helps her heal and embrace her new life. The text and illustrations provide a positive glimpse of life in Africa. The evocative watercolors effectively convey the child's loneliness, isolation, and, finally, emotional rejuvenation. The understated narration also creates a poignant sense of her loss. Unfortunately, it is never fully explained. Readers only know that "Sieta saw her mother getting sicker…and thinner…and quieter, and her father getting gentler and softer and sadder. One day they were just not there anymore." Young readers are bound to be left with many questions. An endnote explains the effects of AIDS on many African families. The book will need to be introduced to be fully understood and appreciated. It may fill a void since there are few books about AIDS for this age level, and none set in Africa.—Heide Piehler, Shorewood Public Library, WI

PreS-Gr 2—This tender tale about intergenerational friendship, love, and loss tells of the cozy relationship between a young girl and an old, hard-of-hearing man. Lisa and Otto share many interests, but they are captivated by numbers. Together they hone the child's counting skills by assigning items to each number: "ONE is for Lisa, there's only one of you in the whole wide world! TWO is for our two emergency cookies." Lisa also practices shooting with her slingshot, attempting to hit a buffalo that is made of a rusty barrel and bent bicycle handles for horns. When she finally hits her target, Otto is there to celebrate her victory. After he dies, she must learn to deal with her pain and feelings of abandonment. The closeness of the characters is portrayed in heartwarming illustrations: the two friends stargazing with Lisa's arm casually draped over Otto's generous stomach, while her other hand is holding his; strolling together with mouths full of contraband cookies and conspiratorial looks on their faces. A small white cat appears in each of the pictures and encourages readers to study the wonderfully varied art. Outside the framed single- and double-page illustrations are Lisa's pencil doodles, including cookies, numbers, and Native Americans with feathers on their heads and the front of their clothing decorated with hearts. This universal story will speak to many readers.—Maryann H. Owen, Racine Public Library, WI

Gr 1–2—In Party Time, Mia listens to her older sister's stories about her experiences at the "fairy shop" and imagines all sorts of wonders. When she goes to the same party center, she finds that anticipation is the greater joy. The story compares two perspectives. Bad Buster depicts a family of social outcasts. After facing difficulty with his peers, young Buster finds that animals respect and respond to him. When he stops a burglary and is treated as a hero, his social life starts to improve; however, he still finds time to be bad. These easy chapter books may motivate reluctant readers, who will appreciate the humor hidden in the stories. Both titles are illustrated with black-and-white line drawings in a cartoon style. The easy reading level allows students to read them independently and will make for good discussion starters. However, some of the phrasing and structure in Party Time, such as "she joined in," "she got cross," and "have a turn" might confuse emerging readers.—Kathleen Pavin, Purdy Elementary School Library, Fort Atkinson, WI

K-Gr 3—"My brother is really cool," boasts a young boy. On widely spaced lined paper, he writes of his older sibling's many attributes. Not only does he have cool ears and hair, but he also wears cool clothes. And he can score "FANTASTIC goals" in soccer, "run so FAST that...he can FLY!," "read HUNDREDS of books," and write "BRILLIANT stories." Browne's over-the-top, whimsical cartoon illustrations are the perfect foil for this child's exuberant praise of his sibling. Big brother's "cool" button is echoed in the many buttons containing accolades like "SUPER BROTHER!" and "He's GREAT!" on the endpapers. Big brother's artwork is so fine that the wolf he has drawn comes to life and frightens Red Riding Hood off the page. The bubble he blows fills a room, and he reads Browne's My Brother in a chair constructed of books and "cool" sandaled feet. The author's fans will recognize his penchant for gorillas, and they will delight in the self-affirming ending when they turn the page after reading, "And guess what…." Cool!—Marianne Saccardi, formerly at Norwalk Community College, CT

PreS-Gr 1—The calm of a bucolic farmyard with its grazing sheep and tranquil cows is shattered by a rooster shouting, "HURRY! HURRY!" "COMING! COMING!" answers a jumping goat. "Ready? Ready?" asks a duck of her three ducklings, who respond, "Yes! Yes!" as they lift out of the water and fly toward the barn. Pigs and a sheepdog join the throng standing inside the barn door watching as the newest member of the farm family pecks its way out of an egg. "CHEEP! CHEEP!" and "I'm here! I'm here!" are its first words to the animal community, which greets the arrival with limbs flung high in triumph. The sweet story is filled with movement and excitement as the animals happily rush to witness the event. Acrylic spreads are bright and cheerful, and the simple text is done in bold, colorful type with exclamation marks galore. This charming story celebrates the anticipation of a new life and its long-awaited appearance.—Maryann H. Owen, Racine Public Library, WI

K-Gr 3—On the eve of her mom's wedding, seven-year-old Pinky reflects on her relationships with her faraway father and Jim, her pending stepfather. While she loves both men, she secretly hopes that her parents will get back together. When the girl sees her father in the midst of her ring-bearer preparations, she whispers to him that she will give him the rings if he'll marry her mother instead. Daddy gently reminds Pinky that he and her mother are "just friends." At the ceremony, Pinky hesitates before she gives up the rings, but she realizes that she is happy for her mother and Jim. While Pinky's reactions to and acceptance of her mother's remarriage and her stepfather are unrealistically condensed into the actions of two days, her range of feelings is typical of children in like situations. While her first-person voice may be a little precocious at times, it is honest and direct in typical Bunting style. Papp's soft watercolors, bordered and cropped to evoke wedding photos, set up idyllic matrimonial images. While this offering may hurry Pinky's emotional arc, it does help fill the need for titles on stepparents and remarriage.—Rachel G. Payne, Brooklyn Public Library, NY

PreS—With which friend does Kitty love to cuddle best? Is it Tiny Mouse, "prickly" Porcupine, "squidgy" Frog, "squeezy" Octopus, or a host of other animals featured one per spread? Though seemingly a tough call, Kitty's new baby brother is ultimately revealed as the paws-down favorite. Cabrera's trademark eye-catching, lush colors are used to full advantage on every page. While Kitty's never-changing expression is monotonous, the animal friends are rendered with a verve that catches the essence of the other creatures and splashes it vibrantly across the pages. While it's all slightly precious, youngsters will be riveted by the bold pictures and find comfort in Kitty's predictable exploits.—Marge Loch-Wouters, Menasha Public Library, WI

K-Gr 4—Apprehensive about her jazz dance recital despite the encouragement of her three bebopping great-aunties, Mindy stomps off to her room to cry. Spying a talking drum outside her window, she follows it down the fire escape to find herself whisked back in time to the Savoy Ballroom of the '20s or '30s. Stepping inside, she is swept up with dancers doing the Lindy Hop to the bouncing music of Chick Webb, Benny Goodman, and Ella Fitzgerald. "Somebody's trying to mess with my mind," she says, puzzling over the clothing and hairstyles. As a Battle of the Bands begins, clarinets wailing and drumsticks pounding, Mindy dodges the club bouncer and finds herself entered in the dance competition, along with her suddenly youthful aunts. She performs her recital dance for the enthusiastic crowd, then lands back on her bed at home where she announces that she's ready for her performance. Her aunties respond with perfectly executed splits. Rhythmic gouache and pastel paintings depicting swinging dancers and jiving musicians perfectly complement the lyrical energy and magical realism of the cadenced prose. A terrific read-aloud, Stompin' at the Savoy is brimming with the irrepressible energy and "happy feet" of the Lindy Hoppers. A splendid shelf-mate would be Ntozake Shange's Ellington Was Not a Street (S & S, 2004).—Joyce Adams Burner, Hillcrest Library, Prairie Village, KS

Gr 3–6—Shortly after her first adventure in Little Fur: The Legend Begins (Random, 2006), elf troll Little Fur is on another dangerous quest. In order to discover what evil plot the Troll King has conceived to destroy the earth magic running through the natural world, she joins a fellowship that ventures beneath the city to Underth, the realm of the trolls. Her companions include her loyal feline friend Ginger, two stealthy sibling ferrets, and an unwilling rat as a guide. However, the most intriguing member of the group is Sorrow, a fox whose sole wish is to die and who joins the quest to achieve that end. Little Fur's healer instincts demand that she attempt to discover and cure what ails the fox's body and spirit, but he proves an unwilling patient. Though the story builds on the events of the previous novel, it is not necessary to have read it to enjoy this one. In fact, this installment is more cohesive and less didactic than the earlier one and has a better developed and more rounded character in Sorrow. The simple pen-and-ink drawings add little to the narrative. Patrick Carman's "The Land of Elyon" series (Scholastic) is similar and superior, but readers who enjoy a tame eco-fantasy should be satisfied with Little Fur's return.—Amanda Raklovits, Champaign Public Library, IL

PreS-Gr 2—George is a lovable and dependable basset hound whose humans have always been happy to have him around. When a stray comes into their lives, though, things suddenly change. Zippity runs, fetches, swims, and chases, and he zooms circles around George, who feels left out and displaced. Unfortunately, the newcomer is scared to death of thunder and runs away when a storm hits. The man and woman ask George to help, and he uses his trusty nose to track Zippity, rescuing him from the muck where he is stuck and frightened. The watercolor-and-pencil illustrations perfectly capture the exuberance and spirit of this tale. George's wrinkled, floppy, lovable face speaks volumes, and Zippity's energy is equally clear. Children who have had their own feelings of doubt, and of being overshadowed by the arrival of a new sibling, will relate to and embrace this story of each individual's importance and place in a family.—Genevieve Gallagher, Murray Elementary School, Charlottesville, VA

Gr 1–3—Gator used to be a popular carousel animal, but that was before the amusement park closed. Now, the happy laughter of the children has faded to only a memory. Tired of waiting for the good times to return, he leaves the park, but with a hole in his heart where the pole used to be. After wandering aimlessly in the forest, he follows the sounds of laughter with the hope of finding another amusement park. But to his sorrow, he finds only a zoo. In his disappointment, he sits on a bench where he is recognized by a passing man. Soon everyone follows Gator back to the old park, where the flashing lights come on and the calliope is playing again. As he reclaims his place on the carousel, the hole in his heart disappears. The text, placed on the top or bottom of the page and often appearing in a gilded oval frame, is unremarkable. Cecil's quirky illustrations include oblong-headed humans and have sufficient detail to determine the character's emotions. The hole in Gator's chest makes logical sense, but is a tad disturbing. It is the oil-paint illustrations that provide the story's overall mood. The muted, flat colors including gold, green, and gray give even the happy scenes a somber feeling. This pervasive mood tends to drag the whole story down. Cecil's take on a familiar theme is different but not completely effective.—Catherine Callegari, Gay-Kimball Library, Troy, NH

Gr 1–3—Piglet Patty, new to Farmer Wu's farm, demonstrates qualities associated with those born in the Year of the Pig. The sociable animal quickly learns about her new home and the other Chinese zodiac animals that live there, including the ox, horse, sheep, and dog. However, her impulsive, stubborn, and inquisitive nature resists learning the manners that her aunts and uncles try to teach her. Then Farmer Wu's jade ring disappears, and even cousin dog's sniffing cannot locate it. With Mama and Papa Pig's encouragement, Patty uses her intelligence to sneak out of the barnyard, find the farmer's misplaced glove, and follow its strange scent to the compost heap. With determination, she recovers the missing ring. Her success earns her the respect and acceptance of the farmer, his family, and her barnyard cousins. Computer-generated graphics feature bright colors, angular cartoon figures, and visually appealing textures. The text, written in short sentences, large font, and easy vocabulary, would be suitable for beginning readers, but the many bold illustrations peppered across the pages disrupt the book's flow. Although brief notes mention the origin of the Chinese zodiac and qualities associated with the pig, the purpose of this original story is not to inform but to entertain. Purchase where Chin's The Year of the Dog (Immedium, 2006) is popular or where interest in these zodiac animals is high.—Julie R. Ranelli, Kent Island Branch Library, Stevensville, MD

PreS-Gr 2—Stanley the Stork's parents have separated. "Dad and I don't sing the same song anymore. All we do is clatter." Now they live apart, and Stanley is convinced that he can't be happy splitting his time between two nests. He is particularly concerned that his dad won't be there for Fathers' Flyday at school. Then he meets Stella, who shares the same lifestyle. "Two nests are better than one, we always say." His parents each give him extra attention and time to help him through the transition. The book's theme is obvious; while it's a little heavy-handed, it might be suitable for some families coping with divorce. The drawings are bright and simple, the text is easy enough for beginning readers, and children will be happy to see the upset young stork's gradual acceptance of his new situation.—Kathleen Pavin, Purdy Elementary School Library, Fort Atkinson, WI

PreS-Gr 3—The deep friendship between a boy and his dog is lovingly portrayed in warm prose and appealing art. Corky, who "seemed to be built from other dogs' spare parts," and Mike are inseparable, and they plan to be "best friends forever." Cochran gently leads readers through a difficult plot in which Corky dies, and Mike, with the help of his mother, comes to accept that the Forever Plan will have to work in a different way. In the satisfying conclusion, he lets the memory of his dog "all the way into his heart. And it felt warm inside." Andreasen's soft illustrations portray a heartwarming relationship and capture the changing mood of the story from joy and exhilaration to sadness and back again to a subdued happiness and understanding. This book has much to offer to children, not only because they love pets but also because of its sensitive treatment of loss.—Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI

K-Gr 5—A nameless boy and his grandfather discuss the meaning of the Golden Rule, its universality, and ways to practice it. Grandfather points out that many religions and cultures, from Christianity to Hinduism to the Shawnee tribe, have their own variations, and he quotes six examples. The boy wonders what the world would be like if more people practiced the Rule, and Grandfather explains that "It begins with you." The rich, golden paintings and large format reinforce the importance of the topic. The cherubic boy and his old-fashioned grandfather gaze solemnly out of the pages, making eye contact with readers and inviting them into the discussion. Swirling patterns of animal shapes and symbols from various traditions are reminders that the topic is as abstract as the art, with much room for interpretation. This is less a story than a discussion starter, and teachers, parents, and religious leaders will welcome it as a clear introduction to an important subject. While there are more compelling examples throughout children's literature of characters practicing the Golden Rule, from Frances Hodgson Burnett's A Little Princess to Chris Raschka's Yo! Yes? (Scholastic, 1993), there are few titles that address the concept so directly.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL

PreS—A warm celebration of parental love. The sparse, rhyming text is evocative and affirming, and appropriate for toddlers or even babies: "I love/your knees,/your toes,/your feet./I love your skin—/so soft,/so sweet." The text hints at the passing of a day, while the illustrations depict timeless activities that every child can relate to. The art complements the text beautifully. Chodos-Irvine uses a combination of printmaking techniques to produce a soothing mix of patterns and textures. Pairings of moms, dads, and children of various ethnic groups are depicted. Many of the pictures show a youngster asserting independence in typical toddler fashion (for instance, brushing teeth), while the parent waits lovingly to assist if needed. Only You will make calming bedtime reading, and the words may end up memorized and recited aloud to soothe a cranky child. A stellar effort.—Susan E. Murray, Glendale Public Library, AZ

PreS-Gr 1—Princess Justina Albertina likes getting her own way. Her nanny, when faced with a choice between a headache-inducing royal tantrum or giving in to the princess's demands, always caves. So when the youngster insists on getting the perfect pet, her nanny does her best to oblige, scouring the Earth for unusual animals. None of them is quite right, though: the puffer fish ignores the princess, she cannot ride the two-headed dog, and the monkey scares too easily. Finally, the nanny returns with a fierce gryphon, which the princess declares is perfect. This time, however, Princess Justina Albertina has bitten off more than she can chew, with tragic results. The book's cover hints at what is to come: while the princess dances in the background, a grim-faced nanny holds up a sign that reads, "A Cautionary Tale." Humorous details pack the cartoon illustrations, which are done with a mix of watercolor, colored pencil, and gouache. The nanny's outfit changes for each expedition: lederhosen for the unicorn, a wet suit for surfing Australia's shark-infested waters. The princess is frankly repulsive, with buck teeth, a piggy nose, and fierce green eyes glaring through round glasses. Nanny and the rejected pets clearly find her intimidating. The busy spreads contrast well with the dramatic conclusion, in which the nanny is left standing all alone, saying "Oh, dear." The end result is a deliciously satisfying tale about the dangers of acting like a spoiled princess.—Suzanne Myers Harold, Multnomah County Library System, Portland, OR

PreS—Little Monkey is bored. Looking for something to do, he climbs aboard a lily pad and is quickly swept downriver. Luckily, his mother has told him, "If you ever get lost, find other monkeys. They will lead you home." As it turns out, the jungle is alive with monkeys of all shapes and sizes, and each new group has something to share. He learns to howl, swing, eat fruit, and hug. While he has to find his own way home, he uses these new skills to do so. Once there, he shows the others what he has learned so that no one is ever bored again. A palette of greens creates a generalized backdrop of leaves and swirling color upon which the animated creatures engage in their various antics. A few other animals help enliven the scenes. Back matter has facts about each of the nine New World monkey species featured. This simple tale follows the circular pattern of a classic hero story, although conflict is held to a minimum; no territorial behaviors are evident. An additional purchase.—Martha Topol, Traverse Area District Library, Traverse City, MI

PreS-K—Little Monkey gets into mischief when Big Monkey is too busy to play with him. First he amuses himself by throwing figs that Big Monkey has picked for supper. Then he swings and jumps in the Big Tree, but crash-lands in the middle of the bed that Big Monkey has made for him. Finally, he swings from a branch and lands right on top of Big Monkey, who is trying to nap. Little Monkey fears that he is no longer loved when he is sent to bed for punishment, but is reassured that Big Monkey loves him always, even when naughty. There's nothing original here, but the familiar message is always on target for small children, who will easily identify with Little Monkey. Lively cartoon drawings in watercolor and pencil depict the mischievous animals at play in a colorful jungle setting.—Sally R. Dow, Ossining Public Library, NY

PreS-Gr 2—Bowler-hatted and be-scarfed, Dodsworth leads a rather dull and lazy life of naps, TV, and daily junkyard trips to replenish his thrift-shop stock. The mouse's routines are abruptly altered when he is attracted to a magnet on the front of a rusty pink refrigerator. The mysterious appliance becomes his cornucopia for adventures as it is filled with different supplies each day to help him follow the gentle suggestions written on notes held under the magnet: "Make pictures"; "Read more"; "Play music." His days become so filled with purpose and life that when a last note on the now-empty refrigerator exhorts him to "Keep exploring," Dodsworth finds he has the inner resources to do just that. Egan's masterful handling of the character's growth from lazy lump to a delighted self-starter will engage readers. The ink-and-watercolor art mirrors the laid-back tone of the narrative. In a style slightly reminiscent of James Marshall's work, Egan places his blocky rodent amid an ordered world of muted colors and white-framed spreads. This off-beat tale is perfect for reading aloud, but will also be appreciated as a read-alone and lap-sit. It's never dull.—Marge Loch-Wouters, Menasha Public Library, WI

PreS-Gr 2—An assortment of hip city dogs and their owners take a walk to the Farmer's Market. These proud Bow Wow School graduates celebrate their good behavior as they struggle to behave before heading off for a romp in the park. Told through the canines' thought bubbles, this simple story has a rhythmic, jazzy quality that begs to be read aloud. "Wag a tail./Wag a tail./We know how./Wig Wag Zig Zag/Bow Wow Wow." Collages composed of brightly colored buttons and scraps of fabric and handmade paper stand out on vivid green backgrounds. The final endpaper shows portraits of the pups introduced with their name and characteristics ("Keep an eye on Spike, he needs more obedience training"). With polish and pizzazz, this well-designed package pays tribute to dogs and life in the city. An author's note provides special behind-the-scenes details about the illustrations.—Julie Roach, Cambridge Public Library, MA

PreS-Gr 3—In this version of the traditional American folk song, the heroine is a feisty little girl in pink pajamas, "flowery and frilly,/and they make her look quite silly." Her six white horses have names like Moonbeam and Stardust. When she comes, she will be doing remarkable things like "juggling with jelly" ("Squish-Splat!"), dancing across the rooftops ("Yee-Ha!"), and painting the whole town plum so "the place won't look so glum." A turquoise sky shows off white cowboy-hat clouds, and two foldout pages open wide like green saloon doors to welcome her. The joyful children and animals playing instruments who go out to meet her are small against the landscape, which is done in a palette of Southwestern colors. These illustrations are as lively as the new verses and call for another round of singing, using the hand motions given at the end of the book. Other versions with the same title are by Philemon Sturges (Little, Brown, 2004) and Ann Owen (Picture Window, 2003). This lively addition will surely elicit smiles.—Mary Jean Smith, Southside Elementary School, Lebanon, TN

K-Gr 2—Ten old men have seen their synagogue's membership dwindle as families moved out of the old neighborhood. Now they keep one another's spirits up during their daily prayers. Life becomes a little cheerier when an intelligent mouse moves into the shul, bringing out the men's nurturing instincts. The birth of baby mice, however, is too much, and they sadly relocate the family to the countryside. Loneliness sets in again—until the mother mouse, now an empty nester like her friends, returns home to the synagogue. The men tell her not to worry: "You'll hear from your kids again. You know when? When they need something." Fagan, whose storytelling is usually so vibrant, has written an odd, sad little story with an unclear message. Neither the mouse nor the old men learn or grow or change from the experience. The only lesson seems to be that old age is so lonely that the adoption of a pet is cause for great celebration. The Jewish content does not contribute to the story in any significant way. The 10 men form a minyan (the quorum required for Jewish public worship) but this is never mentioned in the text, leaving readers with too many characters and not enough fleshing out. They never learn what synagogue attendance means to the men or what keeps them coming back when nobody else does. The cartoon-style ink-and-watercolor illustrations are colorful, but the pathetic nature of the characters' lives is reflected in scene after scene of unpleasantly anxious faces. A surprisingly lackluster effort.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL

PreS-Gr 1—Bear has found something fantastic-a little box that Mouse will just love. But by the time Bear shows it to his friend, he is unsure of his gift's value, because everyone he has met along the way has pooh-poohed it as either too small, too ordinary, or better in someone else's hands. But Bear and Mouse aren't friends for nothing. Sure enough, Mouse agrees that the box is "the greatest thing ever." Bear's journey from euphoria to doubt to euphoria again is gently rendered. There is not a lot of detail in this book, but not a lot is needed. Pastels provide the backdrop for the text, while Bear and his detractors stand in contrast on a white page, carrying the story with their expressions and body language. Young listeners, particularly those who understand the value of leaves and stones and bottle caps, will love this book. They will hope that Bear will remain steadfast and trust in Mouse, who rewards Bear's thoughtfulness with the gratitude of a true friend. Absolutely charming.—Kara Schaff Dean, Needham Public Library, MA

K-Gr 2—This highly comical yet heartwarming tale begins simply enough. Jack, a hungry farm cat, builds a perfect nest to attract the perfect chicken to lay a perfect egg for a delicious omelet. Everything is going even better than planned when he lures a chicken, a duck, and a goose, and each one lays a yummy egg. Unfortunately, Jack cannot convince any of them to leave the nest though he tries with cries of "Flood!" "Fire!" and "Wolf!" Finally he appeals to their greedy nature by telling of the better and empty nest at the farm down the road. They take off immediately, but before Jack can enjoy the eggs left behind, they hatch, and, to his horror, the chicks target him as mom. He can't possibly eat them. In the end, as he snuggles with the tired babies, he realizes how perfect his nest really is. This amusing tale gives each of the nesters a different nationality (French, American, Spanish) complete with accent. Manders's gouache illustrations are a perfect complement to the text. The bickering poultry; the hungry, then desperate, and finally horrified cat; the demanding chicks; and the auxiliary characters are all given wonderfully detailed expressions that can be laugh-out-loud funny. Varying perspectives in the illustrations give a nice sense of movement to the tale. The text gives the mood and action of the story and the art really brings it to life.—Catherine Callegari, Gay-Kimball Library, Troy, NH

PreS-K—Wombat is bored with living in his burrow so while his mom is busy spring-cleaning, he follows her suggestion to find somewhere better. Koala, Frog, and Mole invite him to live with them, but wombats can't climb trees or walk on lily pads or live under rocks with the ants. So the ants lead him parade-style to a "great big nest nearby," which is filled with eggs. Mrs. Emu is not pleased. Feeling dejected, he returns to his now-tidy home where there's plenty of room—even enough to have a sleepover with all of his friends. The exuberant illustrations infuse the book's many expressive characters with vim and verve, bringing to life even the lowly worm. The visual closeness of Wombat and his happy support group makes each page feel big, bright, and alive. Wombat's naïveté, optimism, and persistence are a winning combination. His search and final discovery that his own home is ideal will resonate with readers. This book will be a big hit with the storyhour crowd.—Martha Topol, Traverse Area District Library, Traverse City, MI

PreS-Gr 2—All of the friendly animals in town want to know why Turtle is in such a hurry. "I am off to see something red, red, red," he replies. Each of his neighbors asks if it is something they have, but it is not Mrs. Raccoon's roses, Rabbit's produce, Goat's red socks, Fox's roof (which he is painting red), the firefighters' truck, or Captain Dog's boat. A growing parade of animals follows Turtle as he rushes through the town and up a hill that overlooks the lake. "Where is red, red, red?" they ask. "Look over there," says Turtle, as the friends are rewarded with a strikingly red sunset. Children may enjoy pointing out the colorful objects on each spread and trying to guess Turtle's mysterious destination. The pen-and-ink and watercolor pictures are kid-friendly, with the clothes-wearing critters reminiscent of Richard Scarry characters. A slight, but pleasant story.—Martha Simpson, Stratford Library Association, CT

Gr 2–5—This entry in Goscinny and Sempé's series features a number of vignettes spanning a couple of summers. Each chapter opens with a few sentences from Nicholas or excerpts from correspondence between the boy and his parents. Nicholas's forthright voice is full of childlike repetition and exclamations ("fantastic!"). This book isn't notable for its plot. The stories are simple, relating Nicholas's antics when he and his parents travel to the seaside and then when he goes to his first overnight camp. What distinguishes this title is a narrative that captures a child so believably and allows its readers to relate to the action but also at times to see beyond what Nicholas himself sees. Sempé's charming cartoon illustrations appear throughout and reinforce the tone. The strength of voice, multilayered humor, short chapters, and episodic nature of the text make Nicholas on Vacation an ideal family or classroom read-aloud. It may take some selling, but it's well worth a place on library shelves.—Adrienne Furness, Webster Public Library, NY

PreS-K—A young girl announces that her family is going to take her infant sister outside to "meet baby animal friends/and hear the bright blessings around every bend." First, they encounter "Mama doe and her 1 little fawn," whose wish is, "May baby be loved every day of the year." Since this spread illustrates the number one, the inclusion of a second animal, the doe, may be confusing to children. Similarly, on the next spread, the text celebrates "2 wobbly foals," but the illustration shows four horses. Throughout the pictures, most of which conflict with the text, Dad holds the family's newest member while Mom and the older siblings introduce her to the animals and receive blessings. After they have seen the 10 puppies, they plant a welcome tree for baby while the other animal young gaze on, and then gather on their front porch swing. There is a lot going on here. The 10 wishes do not seem to relate to the counting of the animals and the tree planting. The folk-art illustrations are brightly colored and idyllic, conveying a sweet and precious tone. One wonders about the audience for this title. It is unclear whether it is meant to be a counting book for preschoolers, a book for older children to help welcome a baby into the family, or an inspirational gift for a family to receive on the birth of a child. Its overall appeal is limited to those who want sentimental books.—Linda Staskus, Parma Regional Library, OH

K-Gr 5—Brothers Rob and Mikey and their friends Jon, Mariah, Bernardo, and Adam discover a time portal in the woods behind their clubhouse. Upon entering it, they find themselves transported to prehistoric times. After a heart-stopping encounter with a T. rex and a pair of velociraptors, the group finds itself lost in a land before time. Surrounded by dinosaurs and pursued by the angry T. rex, the resourceful young travelers must rely on their wits and one another to find the portal and get home. This fast-moving tale is sure to grab the attention of video-minded children as it reads like an episode of Land of the Lost. The characters are rather flat, acting like pawns in the nonstop pacing of the narrative, but the action will definitely keep the pages turning. Both plot and characters take a backseat to the full-spread illustrations: a cool blend of computer art and color photography. The text highlights the illustrations, running down the sides of the pages in columns to frame the photographs or along the bottom of the pages as if to underscore the artwork. Several questions go unanswered: why dinosaurs that lived millions of years apart from one another are together in one time period or the shady purpose of a man in black (who's wearing sunglasses in the middle of the night). This should be a huge hit with dinosaur-obsessed reluctant readers.—H. H. Henderson, Heritage Middle School, Deltona, FL

K-Gr 3—Prunella knows a lot about bugs, but no one has time to listen—not her parents, the bus driver, or her teacher. She waits patiently for her turn at show-and-tell only to have a swarm of bees invade her classroom. When everyone else runs away, the quick-thinking child covers herself with a white sheet and leads the swarm to a new hive, all the while explaining the behavior of the insects. With peace restored, she wins the undivided attention of her classmates with her dung beetle, one of "nature's pooper-scoopers." Gran uses watercolors, dark outlines, and a cartoon style to bring Prunella's story to life. While her teacher and classmates sometimes fade into a monochromatic background, the girl stands out, resembling the bugs she loves. Her wispy hair, tied with red ribbons on either side of her large head, resembles spider legs. Her sleeves might be dragonfly wings, her skirt could be a ladybug, and her stockings are the black and yellow stripes of bee bodies. Reminiscent of Megan McDonald's Insects Are My Life (Scholastic, 1995), this book enlightens and informs with tidbits of information and a fact sheet. It's a clever introduction to entomology.—Mary Jean Smith, Southside Elementary School, Lebanon, TN

PreS-Gr 1—Greene offers a straightforward account of how Noah built an ark, gathered animals, and sailed safely over the flooded earth. This rhymed version scans well, which encourages reading aloud. Except for the dark backgrounds that make the words hard to see at times, the book is well designed. Variations in type size and spacing work well with the text and add emphasis to crucial words. Cohen's illustrations feature a gray-bearded patriarch and dozens of animal pairs that children will enjoy identifying. The impressionistic style suggests shapes through use of shading and flowing lines. Although this rendition lacks the majestic qualities of Jerry Pinkney's Noah's Ark (SeaStar, 2002) or the bright intensity of Lucy Cousins's Noah's Ark (Candlewick, 1993), it is definitely worth considering for collections that need a new or replacement version of Noah's story.—Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Gr 2–4—Narrated by a contemporary African-American girl, this wordy story tries too hard to bridge cultures by making a traditional Chinese custom acceptable to the child's skeptical black grandmother. At a parade celebrating the Chinese New Year, Sugar and Grandma watch the dance of a bouncing, colorful dragon whose bright cloth is held on poles by Daddy, identifiable only by his red shoelaces, and a diverse crew of community members. After Sugar ties her father's shoelaces, the bumpy dragon finds its rhythm. While the bright, watercolor paintings convey the dragon's initial clumsiness, much of the two-dimensional art in the naive style lacks a focal point to attract readers' eyes. The story of making the dragon dance is a thin metaphor for multiculturalism: "It takes a while to learn to dance together," Daddy concludes at the end of the parade. The book's didactic message may be most useful in collections with a need for picture books about Chinese-American and African-American relations.—Julie R. Ranelli, Kent Island Branch Library, Stevensville, MD

Gr 1–4—"I'll hunt with Orion,/We'll stalk the dark night;/On the bridle of Pegasus/We'll trap a gold light." In bouncy rhythm, two young narrators—a boy and a girl featured in turn and sometimes together—visit several planets, constellations, and other heavenly bodies. Drawn in cartoon style and cunningly costumed for each venture, the children appear in vividly colored scenes that are rich in detail. In some settings, relevant mythological figures are sketched into the background. The set of brief poems is augmented with several pages of factual explanations of the solar system, the planets, and the sun, moon, and stars. These are particularly helpful since many of the concepts will be unfamiliar to younger children, and the combination offers a tool for introducing these topics. The explanations do get caught in the Pluto hiatus since the book uses the familiar nine-planet scheme. Still, the bright tone of the poetry and the appealing, strong art are a happy combination.—Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston

PreS—In this loving celebration of all things baby, Henderson lyrically commemorates a small child's amazing feats, from crawling to clapping to exploring food with their entire bodies. "Stand./wobble./Sway/wobble. Bump!/Step/walk/toddle!" The oversize pencil-and-watercolor illustrations are warm and soft, with perfectly captured body movements and facial expressions. These babies are wide-eyed, innocent, and irresistible, and their feelings are right on target. "I want yours! No! It's mine!" is prompted by a tug-of-war over a bottle. "I feel lonely" shows a solitary child in a swing, while "I feel fine" shows a little girl hugging her stuffed bear. A lovely book for group or individual sharing.—Linda Zeilstra Sawyer, Skokie Public Library, IL

PreS-Gr 1—Employing the thick lines and uncluttered illustrations reminiscent of his work in Kitten's First Full Moon (Greenwillow, 2004), Henkes tells the story of four creatures who start out having a bad day. A bird loses his favorite feather, a dog gets her leash tangled in a fence, a fox loses his mother, and a squirrel drops her nut. But then, the squirrel finds an even bigger nut, the fox is reunited with his mother, the dog frees her leash, and the bird discovers he can fly higher than ever, even without his feather. The animals' triumphant expressions and perky postures, in sharp contrast to their former dejected demeanors, bear witness to the fact that the bad day has turned out to be a good one after all. In a surprising twist, a young girl finds the bird's feather, "tuck[s] it behind her ear," and runs to her mother shouting, "What a good day!" A reprise of all four creatures in the last scene as the excited child seeks out her parent is the perfect conclusion. Full-page, pastel-hued watercolor-and-ink illustrations appear framed opposite each page of large, brief text. This gentle story affords an opportunity to introduce the very young to ways of dealing with life's small disappointments. A fine choice for the lap set.—Marianne Saccardi, formerly at Norwalk Community College, CT

Gr 3–5—After her mother dies, eight-year-old Annie Rossi does her best to cope, assisted by Remembering Mrs. Rossi, a book of memories compiled by her mother's sixth-grade students. During the difficult year that follows, her dad forgets to buy her brand of cereal, doesn't remind her to wear her boots, mismatches her pajamas, and doesn't understand that they should be the first to make footprints in the snow. Annie's patterns of belonging have been disrupted, but as she and her father search for ways to "keep Mommy close…and let her go…and keep her close again," they take comfort from the sixth graders' book, share memories with one another, and begin to forge new rituals. Hest avoids delving into grief, focusing instead on Annie's frustrations with changes at home, at school, and in their summer beach community. Maione's soft pencil drawings capture the child's emotions. Readers will recognize their own feelings of frustration and confusion in the protagonist and admire her attempts to convince her father to get a dog. The book by Mrs. Rossi's students is reproduced at the end of the story. Although some of the entries seem naive for sixth graders, this feature gives readers an opportunity to share their memories of their teacher. This gentle story that captures one third grader's year reinforces the power of journaling in navigating through life's changes.—Linda Ward-Callaghan, Joliet Public Library, IL

PreS-Gr 1—A little girl's first overnight at her grandparents' home is both exciting and worrisome. She has a fine time drawing, dressing up as a bride, and playing with their new puppy. Come nighttime, her fears are soothed by her grandmother, who shares the family story behind a handmade quilt. Hoberman's normally spot-on rhymes seem forced at times: "My grandma was YOUR great-great-grandma, oh yes,/and when she was just about your age, I guess," and the events of the visit often seem written more for their ability to rhyme than for the story: "My grandpa's an artist. He helps me to draw./He plays 'Three Blind Mice' on his musical saw." The saving grace is Beeke's impressionistic, vibrant, watercolor-and-acrylic art, which glows with sunset colors, conveying loving and warm relationships and portraying the grandparents' home as a wonderful place. Pleasant, but additional.—Susan Moorhead, New Rochelle Public Library, NY

K-Gr 1—Mother O'Leary's mischievous cow, a swift kick, and a lighted lantern set the stage for an expanded version of a well-known folk song. With sirens blaring and hoses ready, firefighters lead a daring ladder rescue with the traditional refrain: "There'll be a hot time in the old town tonight!" The youngest readers probably won't notice it, but telephones and modern fire equipment move this tale far beyond its historical foundation, and it has a happy ending. In visually arresting, vibrant oil paintings, firelight enhances faces and shadows, and figures stretch outside a framed cartoon to accompany rhyming text. From the first sparks through a raging blaze, the story builds consistently toward a climactic rescue. This is definitely a book that requires a sing-a-long. Try a verse or two-the pacing of words with illustrations creates an entertaining read, despite any rhythmic stretches of the text.—Mary Elam, Forman Elementary School, Plano, TX

PreS-Gr 2—A curious dog asks his young owner a series of typical toddler questions, which are followed by one-line, adult-sounding answers. "Why can't I drive the car?" "Because you are too small to drive." "Why can't we play ALL the time?" "Because there are other things we have to do." "Why do I have to be good when we have company?" "Because we want them to see how well-behaved you are." The illustrations are amusing and expressive, and young children will relate to Murphy's many questions. However, the story lacks consistency, and the child's bland answers lack imagination. Some questions, answers, and corresponding illustrations seem to fit the characters, while others don't. Even the title may be confusing for young readers, as Murphy eats from a dish and not straight from the floor.—Amanda Moss, Maywood Elementary School, Monona, WI

K-Gr 1—Clancy is a Belted Galloway born beltless. Teased by the others, he tries various methods of blending in, but all fail. The Belted Galloway community itself is the victim of a harsh fate; each year they miss out on the grazing rights to the rich grass because they cannot defeat the Herefords in the annual cow-wrestling competition. When Clancy realizes that, under the protection of his all-black hide, he can sneak into the Herefords' field at night, he grazes and becomes stronger. More importantly, he befriends Helga, an all-brown Hereford. She, too, has known the sting of rejection. When Clancy finally defeats a Hereford, and the Belted Galloways prepare to take over the rich grazing field, Clancy and Helga call for an end to the discrimination. "I say we pull down the fence and be cows together." And they all lived happily ever after. From Margaret Rey's Spotty to Dumbo to Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, children have heard this "being different is okay" theme many times before. The illustrations, done in watercolor and graphite pencil, are amusing at times-the spread on cow wrestling maneuvers is a good example—but, over all, this is a force-fed message book.—Kara Schaff Dean, Needham Public Library, MA

K-Gr 4—Both of these books provide gentle Christian explanations of loss and death. In Jenny, a child copes with her sister's illness and hospitalization. She asks her mother, "Why doesn't Rosie feel better after a good night's sleep?" and "Why is she always ill?" When her mom explains that she may not get better and that she might die, Jenny asks if "Jesus will take care of Rosie." The story ends with Jenny saying good-bye to her sleeping sister and praying. "Lord Jesus, please take care of Rosie." In the next book, when Josh's friendly neighbor is hired to paint the boy's bedroom, they become good pals. Josh decides he wants to be just like Max when he grows up. When Max is killed in an accident, Josh asks his mother questions such as, "Why did Max have to die? and "What happens when we die?" She gently explains that his spirit has gone to be with God. She tells Josh about coffins and funerals and reminds him what happened when his hamster died. Both texts are clear and direct, and feelings of sadness and bereavement are acknowledged and discussed. Watercolor illustrations are light and filled with color. Useful additions to Christian literature collections.—Mary Hazelton, Elementary Schools in Warren & Waldoboro, ME

Gr 1–3—Written and illustrated by the team responsible for Salt in His Shoes (S & S, 2000), this oversize title looks promising but never reaches its potential. Jonathan and Michael are best friends and baseball teammates. Jonathan is a weak link on their team—he is constantly striking out and making mistakes. However, once introduced to the "ten golden rules of baseball" that Michael's uncle made up when he played college ball, he practices more and improves his performance in the big game against a rival team. Readers will have difficulty believing in Jonathan's speedy transformation from "strike out king" to a better player who accepts the team's loss with maturity. The dialogue is a bit wooden and is filled with clichés. Furthermore, the "ten golden rules" seem to fit an adult agenda and wouldn't mean much to most youngsters without significant explanation. Nelson's illustrations are stunningly realistic and powerful. Readers view characters from multiple vantage points, some so close that one feels part of the action. The story does feature an appealing multicultural cast, and it might have some appeal to children who play team sports.—Barbara Katz, Parish Episcopal School, Dallas, TX

Gr 1–3—Eight-year-old Makayla is great at helping others, but her fear of bugs keeps her from assisting her neighbor in planting a memory garden for her cat. After thinking of the things her grandfather does to indicate his love, such as taking her for ice cream even though he can't eat it, the girl realizes that she must overcome her anxiety to prove that she cares. The illustrations portray Makayla pondering the problem and overcoming her concern. Pictures vary in size, which keeps readers' focus. This book is useful for discussing concern for others, but it also can stand alone as an enjoyable story.—Sandra Welzenbach, Villarreal Elementary School, San Antonio, TX

PreS-Gr 2—Using a little bit of fantasy and childlike imagination, Kwon tells the story of a little girl and her cat. The pet may act coy and shy when the child seeks its affection, but when she turns away, the feline begins to follow her and mimics her actions. The elements of fantasy are clear as the cat is the same size as the girl and, in the end, she begins to follow and copy her cat. The bright, colorful illustrations feature light gray outlining and accents that add a luminous quality and increase the imaginative nature of the drawings. For cat lovers everywhere, this is an attractive addition.—Genevieve Gallagher, Murray Elementary School, Charlottesville, VA

PreS-Gr 1—Four crocodile pals are bored with being cooped up inside, so they outfit themselves for the inclement weather and set off. They spy a pirate ship, whale, and monster in the distance, but when the fog lifts, they find that "this scary place" is actually a mini-golf park and they decide to play. The action is conveyed in short declarations: "'Smack it!' said Sam. 'Putt it!' said Pam. 'Hit it!' said Will. 'Lost it!' said Jill." Next, a shaggy black dog with a ball in its mouth approaches, and the friends begin an impromptu baseball game (using an umbrella as a bat). When they realize that a torrent of fly balls is actually a hailstorm, the clever canine leads the way to safety in a library. The crocs settle in with books related to their favorite adventures of the day. Nash's bright, expansive cartoons, crisply outlined in black pencil, detail the exploits of these befuddled reptiles. A lively offering packed with child appeal.—Linda Ludke, London Public Library, Ontario, Canada

PreS-Gr 2—In a mansion by the sea, a lonely boy finds a mysterious key under a chair. Curious to discover what it opens, he tries each lock until finally he succeeds in opening a large trunk with a ladder inside. As he climbs down the ladder, he finds himself in a passageway beneath the sea that eventually leads him to a lighthouse where a group of children and their dog become his instant friends. They have lunch, play ball, fly kites, and play on the beach until it is time for him to retrace his steps. This wordless story is straightforward but not predictable. The mystery of the key, the discovery of the passageway, and the obvious enjoyment of the children at play are all pleasantly depicted in brightly colored, simple watercolor, gouache, and ink illustrations that combine full-page images, spreads, and pages of sequential panels. There are nicely done details such as the elaborate dinner service placed on the table at the mansion and the spiral stairway at the lighthouse. This appealing rainy-day tale will stir the imagination of those who have ever looked for something to do on a gloomy day.—Carol Schene, formerly at Taunton Public Schools, MA

Gr 2–5—Inspired by an actual 1830s lithograph, this beautifully crafted picture book briefly relates the story of Henry "Box" Brown's daring escape from slavery. Torn from his mother as a child, and then forcibly separated from his wife and children as an adult, a heartsick and desperate Brown conspired with abolitionists and successfully traveled north to Philadelphia in a packing crate. His journey took just over one full day, during which he was often sideways or upside down in a wooden crate large enough to hold him, but small enough not to betray its contents. The story ends with a reimagining of the lithograph that inspired it, in which Henry Brown emerges from his unhappy confinement—in every sense of the word—and smiles upon his arrival in a comfortable Pennsylvania parlor. Particularly considering the broad scope of Levine's otherwise well-written story, some of the ancillary "facts" related in her text are unnecessarily dubious; reports vary, for instance, as to whether the man who sealed Henry into the crate was a doctor or a cobbler. And, while the text places Henry's arrival on March 30, other sources claim March 24 or 25. Nelson's illustrations, always powerful and nuanced, depict the evolution of a self-possessed child into a determined and fearless young man. While some of the specifics are unfortunately questionable, this book solidly conveys the generalities of Henry Brown's story.—Catherine Threadgill, Charleston County Public Library, SC

K-Gr 2—Mookey is a hairless monkey who has difficulty coping with his classmates' teasing. Then he learns to ask for help, accept himself and his differences, think positively, find good friends, use humor, ignore taunts and stay cool, and realizes that he can't control the teasing. The average-quality cartoon art is effective in illustrating the action, but not outstanding. The book includes advice for parents and teachers who want to help students deal with being teased or bullied. An effective tool for discussion.—Kathleen Pavin, Purdy Elementary School Library, Fort Atkinson, WI

Gr 1–3—Gooney Bird Greene returns for a third installment. Here, her second-grade class is learning about fables. In typical Gooney fashion, the precocious child takes over her classroom by suggesting that everyone write a new fable. Mrs. Pidgeon encourages her enthusiasm by letting her direct the project, and each subsequent chapter is dedicated to a student's work, including one fable about a T. rex done as a rap, concluding with, "Big mean nuthin' if you don't do school!" Given the age of these children, they are amazingly adept at writing, reading, and giving presentations, and they run into only minor glitches with their fables. While it is refreshing to hear from the other members of the class so clearly dominated by Gooney Bird, their creations lack the zest that hers usually have. Fortunately, her eccentric outfits and words of wisdom are peppered throughout to keep the story moving along while Thomas's characteristic black-and-white illustrations provide nice visuals. Full of new vocabulary words and information about fables, this slightly didactic first chapter book is a must for Gooney Bird fans.—Julie Roach, Cambridge Public Library, MA

PreS-Gr 2—A mother speaks to her young daughter of milestones to come in her life, first recalling her infancy ("One day I counted your fingers and kissed each one"), and then contemplating her future ("Someday you will swing high—so high, higher than you ever dared to swing"), her adulthood ("Someday I will watch you brushing your child's hair"), and her old age ("Someday, a long time from now, your own hair will glow silver in the sun. And when that day comes, love, you will remember me"). The pen, ink, and watercolor sketches have the same soft sentimentality as the text. The artist's use of white space and hand-printed letters gives a childlike innocence to the book. However, its greeting-card quality will appeal more to new mothers and gift-givers than to children. Barbara M. Joosse's Mama, Do You Love Me? (Chronicle, 1991) is a better choice for libraries.—Carolyn Janssen, Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, OH

K-Gr 3—When Hugo, an elephant, finishes his painting of an electrical outlet, he realizes that he has painted everything in Cornville and is fresh out of ideas. His canine friend, Miles, suggests a trip to Paris for inspiration. Days of exploration prompt the artist to consider various possibilities, such as becoming Van Hugo, who paints impressions of his feelings; working in one color as "Hue-Go"; or creating "Hugo-mongous" canvases. But it is his vision of a completely different Paris as he views the city from atop the Eiffel Tower that finally convinces Hugo to return to Cornville where he "can paint everything all over again, only differently." The cartoon illustrations, rendered in pencil and digitally colored, pro-vide an ample supply of visual jokes. Cornville is the home of "Soft's Hardware" and "Munchie's Grocery." "Get There Air" takes Hugo and Miles to Paris and "Been There Air" flies them home. The myriad subjects of Hugo's paintings are quite amusing, and there are disguised works by Raphael, Hals, Van Gogh, and others in the museums. The paintbrushes and wrenches on the endpapers exemplify the two friends' occupations, and the French street map, passport, and guide-book on the title pages foreshadow their trip. This story, along with Michelle Markel's Dreamer from the Village: The Story of Marc Chagall (Holt, 2005), can spark a discussion about new ways to see everyday objects.—Marianne Saccardi, formerly at Norwalk Community College, CT

PreS-Gr 2—Mammano has added another winning title to her series featuring adventurous rhinoceroses. Here, they have put away their surf-, snow- and skateboards to become intrepid firefighters. They brave burning buildings, fight "major ragers," and report to the scene of multiple-car crashes. Some work as smoke jumpers or rescue townsfolk from sweeping floods. The kindhearted heroes also make "band-aid calls" to pluck stranded kittens out of trees. When they are not out on their "rig," there is plenty to keep the rhinos busy in the firehouse. They joke around as they wash and maintain the trucks, but when the bell clangs, the "rhinos who rescue are off again!" The text is sprinkled with firefighting terms collected in a glossary of "Rescue Rap." Psychedelic illustrations increase the action and sense of adventure. The collagelike watercolors feature mosaic backgrounds and orange flames resembling exotic flowers. The unusual text layout in waves and arcs further enhances the excitement. This enjoyable story may be paired with Nancy E. Shaw's Sheep in a Jeep (Houghton, 1988) for a fun-filled storyhour.—Linda L. Walkins, Mount Saint Joseph Academy, Brighton, MA

Gr 3–5—Vietnamese and American cultural assumptions are woven seamlessly into the plot in this accessible and inviting story. Nine-year-old Binh is fascinated to know that she has an American aunt, who at age five was sent to the U.S. as part of Operation Babylift. Now Di, 35, comes to Vietnam to visit her birth mother and other relatives. Binh knows that all Americans are rich and imagines her aunt taking her home with her to live in the house that looks so enormous in photos. Binh, too poor to attend school, is embarrassed to tell her aunt that she helps her family eke out a living by selling fruit from a cart, and Di knows little of Vietnamese culture. With some final, brave efforts at communicating, Binh finally helps Di sort out what is and isn't offensive in Vietnam, and the tension is dispelled. Direct language, a balance of simple and complex sentences, and a generous use of white space will pull in younger readers, giving them more depth than is typical in early chapter books. Despite unfamiliar words and a rather large cast of characters, the story of Binh and her family shines through the spare text, creating a welcome chance to experience another culture. Pair this with Andrea Warren's Escape from Saigon (Farrar, 2004) for a nonfiction look at the same topic.—Faith Brautigam, Gail Borden Public Library, Elgin, IL

PreS-Gr 2—Louisiana life is good for a sonorous-voiced rooster with a blue head and the brown hen named Miss Cleoma. That is, until a bad bout of chicken measles steals the rooster's crow and makes him ripe for Mrs. Miser's "silent rooster stew." A desperate Miss Cleoma two-steps a "rooster-in-danger dance" down the road, seeking help from Mr. Joe Beebee, the best musician around. Meanwhile, Mrs. Miser's attempts to grab her ax to deal with the rooster are delayed as farmyard animals pitch veggies in front of her (think of the Greek myth of Atalanta and the Golden Apples) that simply must go into the stew first. Mr. Joe Beebee comes to the rescue, gathering neighbors and musicians who converge on Mrs. Miser's house ready to create a music-filled party. The rooster is inspired to crow, Mrs. Miser sells her "seven-vegetable stew" to partygoers, and good times ("Bons temps!") are had by all. Saturated in Cajun and Creole cadences and sensibilities, this rollicking, multilayered tale is at once lyrical and tongue-in-cheek funny. The playful illustrations are a clever mix of collage and bright watercolors that feature varying perspectives and impressively expressive poultry. The spreads are overlaid with panels of handmade paper containing the pictures, with chickens dancing a red-dotted trail over, under, and around them. The sheer insouciance of both text and art will have readers dancing the two-step and sharing that chicken joy as well.—Marge Loch-Wouters, Menasha Public Library, WI

Gr 2–6—A celebration of the life of a major fashion designer and independent spirit. Chanel was born poor, was scorned, and ultimately succeeded because of her own talents. "Coco couldn't afford to dress like the corseted ladies of high society and she was never going to be shapely. There was no point in trying to be like them. Instead, she tried to be different." Like Kathryn Lasky's Vision of Beauty (Candlewick, 2000), this imaginative tale should be shared with every child who thinks Jane O'Connor's Fancy Nancy (HarperCollins, 2005) is the epitome of high fashion. The story is accompanied, appropriately, by elegant pen-and-ink and watercolor cartoons that capture her struggles as a young woman, as well as her innate sense of style. Viva, Coco.—Kathleen Whalin, York Public Library, ME

K-Gr 3—"Little Red Hen" repurposed. This gritty, sharply graphic woodcut version of the time-honored tale sets our feathered friend and her slothful sidekicks squarely in the present. Lolling in a state-of-the-art media room, glued to an enormous TV, an indolent trio proffers predictable replies to Hen's entreaties for help with her work: "'Not I,' said the Fat Cat. 'Not I,' said the Dirty Rat. 'Not I,' said the Greedy Pig." So it's Hen who plants and waters and weeds her seed, which grows to be the sheltering tree under which her little red chick is born. When, in time, Mother Hen encounters a little cat, a little rat, and a little pig who ask, "Who will let us in to play under the tree?" her response is—you guessed it—"Not I!" Her chick, appalled at Mother's unkindness, calls her out and asks them in. At the end of the day, Hen sends the visitors home with green seeds of their very own. Matthews's hand-painted Japanese woodblock illustrations, black and white and red all over—with, of course, an important touch of green—are striking editorial panoramas that give readers a sense of the tension (and the undeniable connection) between city and country, between environmentalism and careless consumerism, and between egotism and the greater good.—Kathy Krasniewicz, Perrot Library, Old Greenwich, CT

K-Gr 3—"It's the same old story. Wolves are crusty, lazy, and mean. They howl, they chase, and they make a mess. We know all about big bad wolves and their nasty ways…Don't we?" The Scallywags are so irritating that after they ruin the animals' photo session, the bears, pigs, and sheep, etc., decide not to invite them to do things together anymore. The chastened wolves resolve to learn manners but completely overdo it: they are so changed that their friends do not recognize them—in fact, the animals start to wish they had the old Scallywags back. This hilarious story is accompanied by equally lively and humorous pictures that fill the pages with images worthy of close perusal. Each of the slovenly wolves has a distinct personality, as do the other animals. The spread of them attempting to hide while spying on their friends to learn good behavior is wonderful. The book's format sets the mood well with words scattered over the pages in different sizes to emphasize the fun. A thoroughly delightful romp.—Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA

K-Gr 2—Using the same oversize format as Puppies! Puppies! Puppies! (Walker, 2005), Meyers and Walker cheerfully convey the playful spirit of kittens. The merrily rhyming text describes the animals exploring their world first as newborns, "Pouncing, bouncing, mewing...Busy, up-and-doing…." As they adjust to their new homes, they are "Chasing toys that skip and skitter,/Trying out their kitty litter." Growing older and bolder, the kittens are seen "Climbing curtains, shredding chairs,/Ganging up on teddy bears." Soft, muted colors give the pictures of tabbies, calicos, Siamese, and other domestic felines a warm and fuzzy feeling. Their expressive faces convey their sense of play, adventure, and curiosity as they hide in paper sacks, chase birds and mice, run atop a fence, jump from the washing machine into a laundry basket full of clothes, and cuddle with children. Youngsters will enjoy listening to the lively rhyme and shouting out the refrain, "Here and there and everywhere,/Kittens! Kittens! Kittens!" They will also enjoy poring over the cozy illustrations of the pets acting in ways that are very familiar to anyone who has ever enjoyed the company of a cat.—Martha Simpson, Stratford Library Association, CT

Gr 2–4—Fourth-grader Riley O'Rourke wants to play saxophone in instrumental music, but his mother can't afford to rent one. He can't possibly make enough money to buy one, and, even if he could, Mom might not let him, "because he was having enough trouble getting his regular homework done." A current assignment includes reading a biography (he chooses Teddy Roosevelt) and preparing to attend his teacher's biography tea in character. The plot moves smoothly to a satisfying conclusion that finds Riley gaining determination, new work habits, and a sax through reading about Roosevelt's life ("If Teddy Roosevelt had wanted a saxophone, he would have gotten himself a saxophone. Somehow"). The believable cast of characters includes best-friend Grant, who decides to wear a loincloth to portray Gandhi; overachiever Sophie, who must have 700 notecards on Helen Keller; and belligerent Erika, who seems to have gotten nicer as Queen Elizabeth. Alley's occasional black-and-white sketches are appealing and give additional information. Children will appreciate this gentle lesson about achieving a goal.—Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI

PreS-Gr 2—Harvey's three siblings have firm ideas of what constitutes perfect gifts for their dad (after all, they give him the same things every year and he responds with, "I can always use more…"). The poor little cub is clueless, but then he comes up with the best gift of all—drawings that show all of the meaningful ways that his father has helped and supported him. This focus on innocence creates an underlying message that may be too sophisticated for preschool audiences without discussion. The father is shown as a loving, sensible man who appreciates every attempt that his children make to please him. The illustrations are bright and expressive, and the rooms in the bears' cozy house are filled with homey details. An endearing story that will charm readers.—Kathleen Pavin, Purdy Elementary School Library, Fort Atkinson, WI

PreS-Gr 1—A tender story about the many ways a mother is magic to her daughter. She chases away monsters and clouds, kisses boo-boos and makes them better, and bakes birthday cakes. Suitable for storytimes, times alone with Mommy, and even beginning readers, the story also touches on how the child is magic, too—she makes her mommy laugh when she sings and dances. The ending looks toward the future, when the little girl will grow up to be just like her mother. Godon's pastel-and-paint, full-bleed spreads in gentle hues exude warmth. They complement the text and the resulting mood is sweet without being cloying.—Nancy Kunz, Tuckahoe Public Library, NY

PreS—In comparing a human mother and child to their animal counterparts, this book finds a way to be original and sweet without being sappy. A repetitive pattern in the text is given dynamic form through the drama of the turning of the page. Throughout the book, the first of two spreads presents an animal in its natural setting, in one case a stream in the jungle: "If I could be an elephant,/my trunk would sprinkle you…." The following pages then show the mother and child together, "But I'm not THAT kind of mommy,/and I know my baths will do." The illustrator makes connections between the two spreads so that, in this example, a toy elephant sits on the edge of the bathtub. In another pairing, timber wolves are depicted howling at the moon on a starlit night. On the next page, the mother sings lullabies to her child, the same sky behind them, as they snuggle on a porch swing. The art is vibrant and expressive, with the mother and child making a friendly and secure duo. The text is printed in a curve, adding to the fluidity of the page; it encapsulates the book's theme with a final statement, "No—I am not an octopus,/I'm not a wallaby/but I am YOUR kind of mommy,/And that's the best thing I could be!" This celebration of mothers will get young listeners thinking about some of the basic connections among all creatures.—Martha Topol, Traverse Area District Library, Traverse City, MI

PreS—In this companion volume to the author's Leo's Tree (Annick, 2004), readers meet Leo's little sister. The story begins when Sophie is a baby and her mother pushes her in her baby buggy, and it concludes with her ultimate transformation into a big girl riding her bike with training wheels. In between she discovers her world in a stroller, in a wagon, in a grocery cart, and on a tricycle. The language is descriptive—"Squoosh! Scrunch!/Sophie's stuck/Sometimes wheels/Won't go in snow." The text is accompanied by simple, soft-washed watercolor illustrations that show the child in various stages and seasons. This satisfying, peaceful title celebrates a youngster's growth from dependency on others to taking a big trip around the block on her own.—Linda Zeilstra Sawyer, Skokie Public Library, IL

K-Gr 2—Too timid to approach Herbie face-to-face, shy slug Marylou uses her slime trail to write love poems to him and leave them around the garden. Herbie responds to each of her poems with a rhyme of his own, but a series of unforeseeable circumstances prevents Marylou from finding them. The hoe he has written on is put in the barn, rain washes away his verse on the fence, and he composes on a melon while Marylou is spending the day in the squash patch. Desperate to meet the sweet poet, Herbie composes a final message on a tall tomato plant. At last, Marylou sees it; the two slugs meet and fall in love. The characters are well developed through the increasingly expressive poems they write for one another. Readers will enjoy the simultaneous drama and humor in this story, squealing as Marylou repeatedly just misses Herbie's missives, and laughing over Sammy's not-so-helpful tip to assist Herbie in identifying his secret admirer: "I think she's the brownish one." Bright, clear cartoon artwork provides a slug's-eye view of the garden and its inhabitants, and the final picture gives readers a peek into Herbie and Marylou's future together. A clever and endearing love story that proves the power of perseverance.—Amanda Moss, Maywood Elementary School, Monona, WI

K-Gr 2—Pierre, a mouse who sails a fishing boat, is in love with Catherine, a ballet-teaching rabbit he glimpses from afar. She admires the dashing figure she sees from her window in the evening. Yet each is afraid to speak to the other. Eventually, they reveal themselves and learn that "feelings are like tides—you can't hold them back." While the notion of the torments of adult romantic love may go over the heads of the intended audience, children will relate to the themes of honesty and being true to oneself. For that reason, the story would make a good Valentine's Day read-aloud, although the French ballet terms may require further explanation. Mathers's watercolors of the fishing village, in a palette of moody grays, blues, and purples, add a calming and whimsical touch.—Rachael Vilmar, Atlanta Fulton Public Library, GA

PreS-Gr 1—A girl's love for drumming lands her in a swamp full of crocodiles (and then helps her find a way out of it). Wilsdorf captures the verve and action of the tale in vibrant colors and broad strokes. Maybelle's orange dress and shock of bushy orange-brown hair reflects her energy as she goes drumming around the bayou, beating two sticks on fences, logs, and crocodile teeth. The illustrations are so lively that readers can almost forget that they're static pictures and mistake them for animation. The images are large enough to use for storytimes, but the rhythm of the text is clunky at times and can be difficult to read while maintaining the pace. Still, for larger collections looking for another bouncy story, Two Sticks can serve a need.—Nancy Kunz, Tuckahoe Public Library, NY

PreS-Gr 3—Enliven your theme lists for seasons, spring, verbs, or just fun with this cheerful picture book. Spring ends with "ing," and Raczka takes children from winter's end to summer's beginning with several befitting "ing" words. From "Melting, dripping, cold's grip slipping" to "buzzing, humming—summer's coming!" readers will remember all of the things they love to do when the weather changes. Using a spring palette, Stead's paintings add an entertaining element and useful clarification to the active text. "Trees leaf-outing" and "lemonading" provide humor and fit the rhyme pattern but might hamper the book's value as a verb-teaching tool. The book includes a four-question rhyming quiz that has the same uplifting spirit as the book.—June Wolfe, Bushnell-Sage Library, Sheffield, MA

PreS—Spring has arrived, and it's time to till the field. "Tractor naps./Time to plow./Cover off./Wake up now!" The short and snappy rhyming text takes readers through a day as a father and his daughter board the tractor ("Leather seat./Noisy gears./Up we go!/Daddy steers") and get to work. With just four quick lines per page, the small field is done in no time. Double-page watercolor illustrations reflect the lilting rhythm of the narrative. Daddy and his girl occupy the forefront, but Mama and baby are seen in the background as they do their own chores, hanging the wash, feeding the pigs, taking lunch to the field. The mother's dress and kerchief are sweetly reminiscent of an earlier time. The antics of a trio of crows and a frisky dog add humor, and children will find additional pictorial stories on every page. With so much to capture their attention—both auditory and visual—youngsters will delight in this fresh seasonal story. A great choice for reading aloud or sharing one-on-one.—Carolyn Janssen, Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, OH

PreS-Gr 2—A bedtime conversation turns into a tall tale as a boy tests his father's devotion with a series of death-defying imaginary deeds. It all begins when he asks, "Daddy, if I got taken by pirates, would you save me?" His father would, of course. He would also swim through shark-infested waters, brave a jungle full of tigers, and even save his son from the robot gorilla Martian pirates that the original pirates later become. In the end, the boy gives his tired and bedraggled dad a drink of juice and patches up his imaginary battle wounds, adding a touching new dimension to an old formula. Like a macho version of Margaret Wise Brown's The Runaway Bunny (HarperCollins, 1942), this book employs exaggeration and humor to explore the perennial picture-book theme of parental love. It breaks new ground, however, by depicting both sides of the parent-child relationship. The irresistible cartoon illustrations are full of sly details, like the two eye patches on the three-eyed robot gorilla Martian pirate. Rex has created a surefire bedtime hit for children (and parents) of either gender.—Rachael Vilmar, Atlanta Fulton Public Library, GA

PreS-Gr 2—This could have been just another story about a child adjusting to a new baby in the family. Instead, its Korean-American perspective and mixed-media collage illustrations set the title apart. A big sister lists things that babies don't know and cannot do, beginning with the foods they cannot eat. A note on the CIP page defines kimchee and its ingredients. Although the characters are of Korean heritage, the ideas are universal. What the older girl can do now, she will teach her sibling later—to dance, dress up, draw animals, eat ice cream, swing, whisper early in the morning before anyone else is awake. "And eat kimchee, if we want to." The older child even shows patience when she tries to teach the baby to sing before she is ready, resulting in a full-spread picture of the baby crying, her mouth wide and surrounded by angry lines in fiery colors. All of the pages feature realistic chalk and oil-pastel drawings on a background of textured-paper collage. The illustrations use just the right colors and lines to capture the children's changing emotions. Short enough to read aloud and detailed enough to engage the eye over multiple independent or one-on-one readings, this book is a welcome addition to an overpopulated field.—Julie Ranelli, Kent Island Branch Library, Stevensville, MD

PreS-Gr 1—A classroom story comes alive in the art room as children decorate dragons for Mei Lin's birthday. An excellent choice for storytime, the text features just a few lines per page and many fun sounds—from the Birthday Dragon's "boink-boink eyes" and "ricky-rack back" to the "stomp, bomp-tromping" of a dragon dancing parade that goes "creep-crouching through tall forests" on one page and "swirl-whirling around whispery meadows" on another. The color of the gouache-and-marker illustrations increases in brightness as the students transition gradually from the classroom into their imaginative fantasy. Line and space convey the celebratory movement of the parade as well as the more hushed wonder of the dreamlike journey. Repeating shapes and elements create rhythm and bring unity throughout the illustrations. Pleasing to the eye and the ear, this book is a satisfying introduction to the dragon of Chinese culture and may also inspire the creation of a few original "sparkly paper and ribbons" dragon crafts.—Julie R. Ranelli, Kent Island Branch Library, Stevensville, MD

Gr 3–5—"When I hear you, I hear la alegría—/Your happiness, my happiness,/Our happiness." A young girl's brief and heartfelt tribute to the "Queen of Salsa" joins the language of the art to the rhythm of the music. Each page vibrates with bold movement and a warm palette accented with black in a swirl of pastels, acrylics, ink, and spray paint. This artistic tribute, sprinkled with Spanish words, also educates with short descriptions of guaguancó improvisation, flamenco, rumba, and Cruz's unique salsa style, ending with a shrine to her on the back cover. Pair this title with Veronica Chambers's Celia Cruz, Queen of Salsa (Dial, 2005) and Monica Brown's My Name Is Celia/Me llamo Celia (Luna Rising, 2004) to demonstrate the impact of Cruz's musical genius and stylistic innovation.—Mary Elam, Forman Elementary School, Plano, TX

PreS-Gr 3—Soule's 1964 picture book has been reissued with new illustrations by a New Yorker cartoonist, and the result is a marvelous meld of text and art. The "be kind to animals" lesson is crafted in such slyly humorous terms that it's sure to win universal acceptance, even as it's met with giggles and grins. As a boy and girl tease a weasel in a variety of ways, Soule suggests other ways to makes friends with animals, such as making a goat a coat or giving a mule "a pool/And some jaunty swimming trunks." The animals look appropriately awkward and uncomfortable with these "kindnesses." As Soule observes: "You can knit a kitten mittens,/And perhaps that cat would purr," Booth draws a wide-eyed feline gazing warily from a safe distance at a pair of clunky, oversize mittens. In the end, the children and weasel snuggle on a couch, since: "It's more fun to please a weasel/and be friends with him instead." Soule's zany suggestions beg to be read aloud, and Booth's line drawings with bright daubs of color perfectly capture the lighthearted goings-on. Reminiscent of Judi Barrett's Animals Should Definitely Not Wear Clothing (S & S, 1970), this charmer's inspired silliness will win a wide audience.—Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA

PreS-K—This picture book has what every cat person wants—a lot of felines in all their playful, mysterious glory. Mortimer's cats are second to none. Stainton's spare text—"Singing cats,/Swinging cats./Cats that wink,/cats that think./I love cats!"—offers just enough material for the artist, who endows each illustration with more texture and character than one would expect this side of 3-D. The white backgrounds increase the charm of the book by spotlighting the cats. The repetitive, rhyming text, use of opposites, and buoyant pictures make this a good selection for early readers. And with its smooth and easy read-aloud lilt, I Love Cats is perfect for group sharing.—Kara Schaff Dean, Needham Public Library, MA

K-Gr 2—Reminiscent of Arnold Lobel's "Frog and Toad" books (HarperCollins) but with an identity all its own, Pinwheel Days is an ode to the joys of friendship. A likable donkey and his animal friends laugh, play, share, say "thank you," and appreciate one another. The four easy-to-read chapters feature abundant dialogue and humorous plots. Complementing the text, the watercolor illustrations are characterized by round figures, warm earth tones, and decorative elements such as multiple patterns. This early chapter book has charm and broad child appeal.—Barbara Katz, Parish Episcopal School, Dallas, TX

K-Gr 6—In an author's note, Thomas explains that Shouting is "the exhilarating, foot-tapping, hand-clapping echo of joy and faith." Both author and illustrator have captured the exuberance of this expression of freedom and faith. The lyrical text and animated folk-art paintings have an air of nostalgia, as an African-American girl watches her mother prepare for church ("she smelled like blue violets/And Dixie Peach and the/Fragrance of fresh-washed sheets/Brought in from the sun and air") and take her place in a pew. When the Holy Ghost breaks out, Mama dances, "one hand behind her back/The other waving at something loose in the air…And every time she tried/To sit down/The organ moaned/And screamed/The song reached out and held her/Then let her go." The text's undulating rhythm is enticing; it moves through the pages, beautifully partnered with Lee's textured paintings. The faceless figures, with their affecting hand movements, convey exquisite beauty and communion in their fluid, graceful bearing. The lavish church hats add a touch of fun and festivity. This magnificent book is not religious in tone, but more a reflection of a deep cultural connection to African roots. As they leave church, the celebrants "are still shouting/On TV or alone in the shower/On the dance floor...Echoing Africa, Africa, Africa." This is a sumptuous offering.—Mary Hazelton, Elementary Schools in Warren & Waldoboro, ME

K-Gr 2—Rhyming text extols and celebrates the uniqueness of a newborn. "Because there had never been anyone like you…ever in the world." As the news of the birth travels, creatures around the world celebrate. "When the polar bears heard, they danced until dawn." "…the geese flew home." "Heaven blew every trumpet…." The text sits on white pages opposite large, richly colored illustrations. The moon appears in all of the paintings—as reassuring as the text's sentiment. Golden musical notes float across the sky as white polar bears dance and giraffes sway to the sounds of the moon's saxophone. The dark blue night skies make a beautiful and dramatic setting for this special night. The painterly art and poetic quality of the text make this an attractive book. Parents and grandparents are most likely to appreciate it, but they will undoubtedly want to share it with a child.—Carolyn Janssen, Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, OH

PreS-K—This is a concept book with a difference: on every other spread, four animals dressed in various outfits parade across the verso toward a type of vehicle (fire engine, tractor, race car, etc.) on the right, and the text asks, "Who is driving?" The next spread reveals the answer as the correctly outfitted animal is shown taking off behind the wheel, accompanied by appropriate sound effects. Readers have to notice minute details of each animal's clothing in order to come up with the right answer. The vivid acrylic illustrations in primary colors have a three-dimensional look and will delight toddlers, although they might not be able to match all the drivers and their vehicles without a little help. The format is clear and simple with white pages as background for the animals, alternating with brightly colored pages for the full pictures. Children will love guessing who each driver will be as well as helping to make each vehicle's noise. A surefire winner for the youngest set.—Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA

K-Gr 3—When his flock migrates south for the winter, Max opts to stay behind—and quickly regrets it. Luckily, Irene and her pets live nearby in a cozy house, so the quirky duck makes himself right at home for the season, and proves to be a bit of a pest. Just when everyone has had their fill of Max's favorite TV shows, blanket hogging, and experimental cuisine, spring arrives, and he leaves to reunite with his flock—and, naturally, the entire household feels his absence. Urbanovic's animals, with their expressive, engaging facial features, take center stage in the open, cheery illustrations. They're detailed without being busy, and nuanced without being at all fussy. Great fun for storyhours.—Catherine Threadgill, Charleston County Public Library, SC

K-Gr 3—Papa's "wandering feet" have taken Rebecca's family many places, from Pennsylvania, where she was born, to Ohio, Indiana, and Missouri. Now he is moving them west again to Oregon: "I hear tell land out there is the finest a man could want." Although Rebecca longs to stay put, Mama explains that this is "Papa's dream." They set out in spring, and during the six-month journey, Papa nearly dies while crossing a river, little brother Harrison falls out of the wagon three times, and Rebecca makes friends with fellow travelers. She also starts to collect scraps of cloth for her quilt bag—from Papa's torn shirt, Mama's apron, her old travel dress. When they finally arrive at their destination, she sews a quilt, and she and her siblings sleep under the snuggly blanket in their Oregon cabin. An author's note explains that the pattern of Rebecca's quilt was a popular mid-19th-century design called "Wandering Foot" in celebration of the pioneer spirit, but that quilters eventually changed the name to "Turkey Tracks." Bond's excellent illustrations, done in acrylics on watercolor paper, provide an ideal dreamy background for the story. The smooth first-person narrative, appealing dialogue, and sunny artwork vividly capture a child's experience in the early days of the United States.—Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI

Gr 1–3—A hearty woman named Lila lives on a cliff above the sea "far away from the rest of the world." For three seasons of the year, she works her fields. Clad in a navy dress, white pinafore, and head scarf, she sows sunflowers, picks beans, and collects apples. Her only companion is a curious striped cat. Then, during the long, cold winter, she sits by her fire. When her vegetables and applesauce run out, the dauntless Lila wishes on a star and finds a bag of flour on her doorstep the next day. Every time she runs low on food, she makes another wish and receives more flour. Although she could have requested riches, finery, or a grand feast, Lila doesn't. She saves her most special wish for the night before her birthday. She leans on her windowsill, peering out into the dark night, and asks for "two cakes and a tractor—shiny red—with a chauffeur." The no-nonsense tale is enhanced by distinguished watercolors that tell a hidden love story. The alluring tractor driver's farm at the base of the cliff appears on the periphery of Lila's solitary life in several illustrations. The subdued golds, greens, and blues reflect the story's gentle tone. Originally published in the Netherlands, this old-fashioned fable is reminiscent of M. T. Anderson's Me, All Alone, at the End of the World (Candlewick, 2005).—Linda L. Walkins, Mount Saint Joseph Academy, Brighton, MA

PreS-Gr 3—Month by month throughout the year, Ling Ling writes and draws pictures about her activities, giving readers a glimpse of urban life in modern China. The eight-year-old is an only child in a middle-class family, and her world centers around family, school, and holidays. When her relatives come to visit, she and her family take them to the important sights in and around Beijing, and during the summer, they travel to Yellow Mountain for a vacation. The text is written as a child would write in her diary, and Lin's pictures, while more skillful than those that most eight-year-olds draw, retain a childlike look that fits perfectly with the text. The book concludes with additional information about foods, places mentioned in the story, holidays, and traditions. Ling Ling's parents are professionals, and her life in many ways resembles that of children all over the world. She likes Barbie dolls, and she celebrates her birthday with a cake and presents as well as with longevity noodles. In December she notes the Christmas decorations that appear in Beijing, and she and her family attend a Christmas party in a hotel. This fusion of cultures has become a part of her everyday world.—Barbara Scotto, Michael Driscoll School, Brookline, MA

PreS-Gr 1—When playground jungle-gym animals come to life, new twists are offered to a favorite song. While their mother reads a book on a nearby park bench, a brother and sister go on a fanciful safari and "give a roar" along with a lion, "laugh out loud" with a hyena, and "flap...wings" like a parrot. Warhola's lush watercolor spreads extend the fun. Comical scenes show a pileup on the slide (with the elephant stuck at the top) and a raucous game of leapfrog. Background details provide clues as to which animal will offer the next verse. The jungle stops stirring when the mother announces, "Time to go, kids!" The complete 10 stanzas are included at the end. This exuberant title will liven up any storytime with exotic sights and sounds.—Linda Ludke, London Public Library, Ontario, Canada

PreS—Ella is an enterprising pig. When an aunt's earring falls down the drain, she retrieves it with a high-heeled shoe and a wad of bubblegum. She comes to the rescue with a spaghetti strainer and curtain rod when her brother's frog escapes into a pool. Then, the porker receives a wonderful umbrella as a birthday present that she "love-love-loved." She takes it with her everywhere she goes, causing problems instead of solving them. Cushman's rounded acrylic paintings depict the chaos of an unfettered umbrella until the object is banned from Ella's dance recital. Like Kevin Henkes's Owen (HarperCollins, 1993), Ella knows she needs her umbrella to give her courage and, like Owen, the resourceful pig comes up with a perfect solution. A reassuring tale for the youngest of listeners, who are often tied to precious objects of their own.—Kathleen Whalin, York Public Library, ME

PreS-Gr 2—A paean to healthful eating and physical fitness. Sadly, too many youngsters resemble the overweight Gulps, who are undeniably human, despite Brown's signature bunny ears. The family is headed for a theme park in their RV filled with televisions and junk food. When the vehicle breaks down, the youngest child recognizes that it is overloaded. The only trim person in the family, Dawn enjoys vegetables and is in heaven when a neighborly man, Farmer Spratt, invites them into his home. However, the others are miserable; their bodies prevent them from doing even the simplest tasks. While these couch potatoes welcome an outing to a county fair with deep-fried treats, the reality of their physical condition hits home. A dance platform and a wagon collapse under their weight, and the waterslide must close after they get stuck. Redemption for the Gulps comes in the form of exercise and sensible eating with vacation plans switched to a hike up "Mount Dauntless." Brown's busily patterned cartoons in confectionery colors with cotton-candy clouds humorously depict the rotund characters in this tongue-in-cheek tale. For group sharing where obvious parallels could prove hurtful to an overweight child, consider Bernard Waber's equally humorous and more subtle Fast Food! Gulp! Gulp! (Houghton, 2001).—Gloria Koster, West School, New Canaan, CT

PreS-Gr 2—When their mother goes out to find a chicken for dinner, five little foxes disobey her and leave their den. Once outside, they fear that one of them might get lost, so the youngsters conduct head and tail counts, each neglecting to include himself. Their bewilderment and worry as they come up short are both poignant and hilarious. Kind Mother Hen comes to their emotional and mathematical rescue, taking them safely back home. Mommy Fox, who has returned, recognizes a good deed when she sees one and has chicken for dinner—but this time as a guest for vegetable soup. The language is engaging and precise, complemented by the vibrant and cheerful illustrations, rich with folk-art inspiration and a pleasing page layout. Definitely a charmer.—Susan Moorhead, New Rochelle Public Library, NY

PreS-K—Williams uses the old bouncing rhyme "10 Little Monkeys" as a jumping-off point for this book. A large family of small monkeys has a barrel of fun, skating in the street, rolling down a hill, climbing up a tree, fishing off the dock—but one family member always gets injured, at which point Mama consults the beleaguered doctor, who sports a banana-patterned tie. His answer is always emphatically the same: "No more monkeys...." But is the series of accidents merely careless coincidence? Hardly. One monkey is more mischievous than most, and the clever methods she employs to undermine her siblings are almost as entertaining as her comeuppance at the book's conclusion. The rhyme is as enjoyable as ever, while the added activities and suspense will make this a hit with children. Watts's illustrations are hilarious: monkeys in funny hairdos, full of kinetic energy and wreathed in vibrant, alternating colors. The facial expressions on all of the characters are priceless: playful, chagrined, overwhelmed, and downright naughty. This version of the classic fingerplay could easily become the new standard.—Susan Weitz, formerly at Spencer-Van Etten School District, Spencer, NY

K-Gr 2—Delilah D. is convinced that she is the queen of a faraway land. Her prosaic mother insists that she is from "here," whereas her father is too busy to ask. When the new au pair takes Delilah and her little brother to the library, Gigi parks herself at a computer, leaving "Library Anne" to supervise the children. Delilah shouts, runs, climbs shelves, etc., all the while insisting that that's what's done in the libraries where she is truly from. Library Anne is depicted as part babysitter, part rule-making spoiler, and although Reeve puts her in pink polka dots and fishnet stockings, she is merely a slightly updated version of the old stereotype. Exuberant, quirky children are better captured by Lauren Child's "Charlie and Lola" titles (Dial), and there are any number of picture books that depict libraries as exciting places that don't need unsupervised children to enliven them.—Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ

PreS-Gr 1—Two children, waiting in a long line to use a public toilet, speculate on what could be causing the delay. "Who's in the bathroom?/We'd all like to know./And why are they being so terribly slow?/We're all getting desperate. It's our turn to go!" Speculation ranges from an elephant "having a poo" to a whale who is "doing the world's biggest pee." "Is it a stoat who is making a stink?" In the end, the children cut to the front of the line, knock on the door, and learn the answer: it is an octopus conscientiously washing all eight "hands." Bright, exuberant cartoons enliven the story and make it a good choice for those with a strong stomach for toilet humor. A frozen stream of urine shoots from a "waddling penguin too frozen to piddle" and a rat leans over the toilet seat "ready to chuck." Adults will quickly tire of this one-joke book, but children may be too captivated by the images of a farting rhinoceros and a "widdling" wombat to question some of the suggestions or wonder why only animals are shown in the bathroom but do not wait on the line with the humans.—Suzanne Myers Harold, Multnomah County Library System, Portland, OR

PreS-Gr 2—This urban trash-to-treasure tale will resonate with city dwellers and send suburbanites and kids in rural areas searching for similar adventures. A boy waits at his bedroom window for his adult neighbor Steve, a.k.a. "the dumpster diver," to set things in motion. Five taps come on the boy's window and two other young residents of the building also receive the signal to report to duty. The children are "Hose Handler #1," "Hose Handler #2," and "The Fauceteer." Armies of insects are dislodged when Steve dives into the back-alley Dumpster and hauls out seemingly worthless junk, but worth is in the eyes of the beholder, and the three assistants share his reverence for discarded objects. Broken skis, blenders, and lamps can all be reincarnated, and half the fun is finding a tenant who will appreciate some newly fashioned object. Steve's enthusiasm and creativity are so infectious that neither he nor his helpers are deterred by the building grouch, who thinks that the man should get a real job. The text aptly appears on torn scraps of paper or, in the case of the final words, a Band-Aid that Steve will need, having incurred a "work related" injury and convalescing in a homemade wheelchair! With his unmatched gloves and flippers, goggles, and hooded yellow slicker, Steve is a lovable comic figure. Roberts portrays him with a playful elasticity that perfectly matches Wong's playful story.—Gloria Koster, West School, New Canaan, CT

PreS-Gr 2—Cherry the pig bakes desserts so delicious that a family of mice proclaims her apple cake to be "incredible." Buoyed by their compliment, she enters a village bake-off only to discover that they meant her cake was incredibly awful. Despairing, she is surprised when she wins the contest, until she learns that the mice like things that are salty and cheesy, not fruity and sweet. She opens a bakery and as a treat for the mice—who, mistakenly or not, have set her on a happy career path—bakes them their favorite biscuits. The only nod to the book's origin is the note to the mice on the last page, written in Japanese. Otherwise, this sweet story, illustrated in shades of yellow and pink and presented on heavy stock, feels like a slice of 1950s Americana. Not a necessary purchase, but a pleasant selection that children will enjoy.—Susan Moorhead, New Rochelle Public Library, NY

K-Gr 2—Detective Small may be short in stature, but he is long on brains and sleuthing skills. The police need his expertise to solve a theft—all of the bananas in town have been stolen. The detective gets right on the case, but his original interpretation of the clues leads him to the wrong suspect. "Why bananas? Why not kumquat, or grape?/Great gumshoe!' cried Small. 'Could it be an APE?'" Luckily, he quickly recognizes his error and finds the perpetrator. This mystery is an exciting chase as readers follow along with Detective Small. But children paying attention to the pictures will be a step ahead of him—clues scattered throughout the book point out his error before he realizes it. The charcoal-pencil and watercolor illustrations are comical, and include details everyone will laugh over, such as the Man in the Yellow Hat in a banana-related lineup. Yee also includes crime-solving information that will help children realize how difficult Small's job really is, such as the amount of research he does to tie together his clues. The rhyming text will help beginning readers anticipate what will happen next. It is dynamic, introducing great action words while still making the book fun to read. Even though Detective Small proves to be fallible, kids will cheer his efforts to solve the case and look forward to his next one.—Susan E. Murray, Glendale Public Library, AZ

PreS-K—In rhyming verse, a young girl calls to Raven to fly her away to fantastic dreams. "Raven, will you dance with me/beyond the northern lights,/Where all the children's laughter/Swirls color through the night,…/Dance me, Raven, dance me /beyond the northern lights." A spread then shows her dancing with other children in the snow, the sky a swirl of rich colors and golden suns. Next, Raven takes her into the icy deep to swim with the fish, whales, and dolphins, and finally to the tribal fire to hear the elders tell stories. Rich batik illustrations have saturated hues of blue, teal, purple, and salmon. The fabric's wrinkles are visible, creating a fine web of lines across each picture. While the book is visually stunning, the story reads like a quiet lullaby, and the lack of plot or action may limit its appeal to children. Raven's role as a dream giver is never explicitly stated or explained in any notes from the author. Regrettably for educators, there are no endnotes explaining the cultural traditions that informed this tale.—Suzanne Myers Harold, Multnomah County Library System, Portland, OR

Gr 3–5—These three well-illustrated automotive titles share nearly identical formats. Each book includes a "What Is…" section to define its topic, a brief history, the culture associated with the hobby, NASCAR or Formula One racing series, track diagrams or a description of building a hot rod, and a closing "gallery" featuring photos of the cars and their drivers. In addition, the books share other common features, such as a diagram of a four-stroke engine. In general, the volumes are readable, informative, and generally accurate. An occasional error does crop up, though; Braun refers to a Model B Ford as a Model A and fails, in photos, to distinguish between hot rods and simply old cars, while Doeden's track diagrams show the sports car rather than the stock car configurations of two road courses. The color photos are very good and are sure to appeal to racing aficionados, and the books succeed as basic introductions to the hobby and sport.—Jeffrey A. French, Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OH

Gr 3–5—These basic, accurate overviews feature interesting and relevant facts about the individuals' lives while clearly relating their contributions to American history. On each spread, a paragraph of text in a large, widely spaced font faces a large, relevant illustration. The backgrounds and most of the pictures are in attractive full color. Sacagawea includes a name-pronunciation guide and an interesting postscript about the Shoshone woman and her family. These titles will be good for children just getting into biographies as well as older students whose skills aren't as strong as most books for their grade level demand.—Andrew Medlar, Chicago Public Library, IL

K-Gr 4—Some of these 13 stories have been widely retold, such as "The Crane's Gratitude" from Japan and "Liang and His Magic Brush" from China. Others have variations told in other cultures, such as "How the Sea Became Salty." Most of the selections are six to eight pages in length. Yee's watercolor illustrations add lushness as well as humor in all the right places. The final story, from Thailand, "The Lucky Farmer Becomes King," is the longest in the collection at 15 pages. There is a bit of gore when the farmer's wife kills a bear—she is shown holding a bloody knife, standing over the prone animal. The volume includes a brief glossary, but lacks source notes. While the retellings, done by a number of different people, are not consistently strong, this title will make an attractive addition to larger collections.—DeAnn Okamura, San Mateo County Library, CA

Gr 1–4—A fascinating glimpse into Chinese culture. Two rhyming sentences for each letter of the alphabet highlight people, places, and things commonly associated with the country, including the Great Wall, pandas, Chinese New Year, kites, and the Himalayan Mountains. Both the illustrated rhymes and the expository sidebars feature information about calligraphy, inventions, the importance of the color yellow, wheelbarrows, dough figurines, jasmine tea, an instrument called an ehru, and more. The couplets, chalk-pastel illustrations, and additional facts together create a comprehensive, nonlinear overview from geography and history to art and science. Although the meter of the text and the detailed pictures may not work for a group read-aloud, the title still has broad appeal. The alphabet portion could be shared one-on-one with younger students, while the additional facts keep the book relevant for independent readers and researchers. The wealth of information and the richness of the realistic drawings allow readers to savor a few letters at a time or to pore over the entire work again and again.—Julie R. Ranelli, Kent Island Branch Library, Stevensville, MD

Gr 2–4—The mix of text and illustrations, mainly sepia-toned, on every spread makes these introductory titles accessible to young readers. Freedom opens with an explanation of the Underground Railroad and a definition of "slaves," but little space is given to the slave experience. The bulk of the book is devoted to traveling the Underground Railroad. Conductors, stations, codes written in quilts, songs, and maps showing routes slaves took are highlighted, but the maps of the United States and Africa are hard to read. Tenement has an old map of the Lower East Side and explanations of life in the New York neighborhood in the 1800s: the size and condition of tenement apartments, doing the laundry, cholera, children's games, work, etc. Some statements in both titles can be misleading; for example, "Slave families were often torn apart.... The family could be apart for years." The likelihood that they might never see one another again is not addressed. Tenement refers to "privies (outhouses)" as "bathrooms." Better books are available on both topics.—Susan Lissim, Dwight School, New York City

Gr 2–4—Vinnie Ream is best known for her life-size marble statue of Abraham Lincoln, unveiled in 1871 when she was only 23 years old, that stands in the Capitol Rotunda. Little information on this fascinating American sculptor has been available for an elementary audience. FitzGerald does a credible job of filling that gap. She chronicles Ream's life, including her Wisconsin childhood, the family's move to Washington, DC, at the beginning of the Civil War, and her distinction, at the age of 14, of being one of the first women hired by the U.S. Post Office. She covers Ream's apprenticeship to a prominent sculptor and her growing relationships with Congressmen who came to have their statues made, and who eventually persuaded the president to sit for her. FitzGerald puts the controversy surrounding her receipt of the commission for Lincoln's memorial statue in a context understandable by elementary students, avoiding mention of the scandalous allegations made at the time concerning how an inexperienced young woman could sway members of Congress. No mention is made of Ream's possible involvement in affecting the vote during Andrew Johnson's impeachment trial. Stock's watercolors capture the energy and excitement of both the young woman and Civil War Washington, although why the endpapers are festooned with a jumble of flowers is a mystery. An author's note discusses which aspects of the book have been fictionalized and the remainder of the woman's life. While the writing seems rushed at times, this is a good introduction.—Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ

Gr 1–3—Summer in the city in South Philly is packed with sense memories for the children who live there. "We don have no backyard frontyard neither. we got black magic n brownstone steps when the sun go down." But what these kids do have is special: "lemonade n black eye peas…n more to watch than tv"—street games, the ice-cream truck, dancing in the street, and relatives and friends. Life is full. And when the sun goes down, they "got to call out the moon." Forman's poetry is sweet and evocative of a blissful childhood filled with tastes and sights and sounds that seem idyllic. Bayoc's illustrations swirl with energy, movement, and color. The text curls and bounces on the early pages, adding rhythm to the playful scenes. This sweet reminiscence invites readers to recall the special things about their own summers—a great introduction to a September ("What did you do over the summer?") writing assignment. It could also be used as an introduction to writing with a sense of place or a memoir.—Mary Hazelton, Elementary Schools in Warren & Waldoboro, ME

Gr 3–6—Each of these titles deals with a seminal point in American history. Alamo includes the background to the battle, as well as an account of its aftermath and some information on famous combatants. Declaration of Independence describes the unrest that led up to the signing of the famous document, how Jefferson composed it, and the uncertainty surrounding the vote for independence. Jamestown provides detail on earlier settlements in the New World, then describes the hard times that the colonists had and the settlement's legacy. The clear, concise, and dynamic style of writing simplifies the information without dumbing it down. Although one illustration in Jamestown is mislabeled, in general, the photos, paintings, and maps in these books add a wealth of information. These works will also be useful for older struggling readers, who won't be embarrassed to use them for basic information.—Esther Keller, I.S. 278, Marine Park, NY

K-Gr 4—A look at some fascinating facts about this red-letter day, presented in Gibbons's signature style. Readers will learn about the traditions that led to the big celebration now held each year on February 2nd in Punxsutawney, PA. The author includes tidbits about the groundhog's diet, habitat, burrows, newborns/kits and looks at past cultures that depended on hibernating animals to help them determine the arrival of spring. Today's "belief" that there will be six more weeks of winter if a groundhog sees his shadow is explained in terms that are perfect for children's level of understanding. Pair this informative and entertaining title with one of the many fictional picture books available on this subject for a fun and fact-filled lesson.—Maura Bresnahan, High Plain Elementary School, Andover, MA

K-Gr 2—These slight books introduce their topics in the most basic terms. Deserts explains that the name covers both hot and cold areas. Antarctica is identified as the largest, coldest, and driest desert in the world, and the Sahara as the largest hot desert. The second title states that "Mountains are made of rock. Some mountains are rounded and smooth." Full-color, uncaptioned photos with unidentified subjects appear on every page. These "early fluency" books include tools too sophisticated for the content. A table of contents leads to pages with no matching headings, and the Web resources are for much stronger readers than the books' intended audience. These titles have little to offer beginning readers.—Carol S. Surges, McKinley Elementary School, Wauwatosa, WI

Gr 3–4—Positive points in Chávez's life are highlighted chronologically. As a child of migrant workers, Chávez saw discrimination and unfairness around him and he wanted to make a difference. He became a leader and campaigned peacefully for better conditions. The narrative flows well and effectively conveys Chávez's bravery and tenacity. The sepia, black-and-white, and color photos of various sizes are laid out in an eye-catching fashion, and the tan page backgrounds provide warmth to the book. Lucile Davis's Cesar Chavez (Capstone, 1998) contains the same information but has only black-and-white photos. Guzmán's book has the look of a friendly read rather than just an item for research. Additional.—Sandra Welzenbach, Villarreal Elementary School, San Antonio, TX

Gr 3–5—Meet Chewbaaka, an ambassador for the Cheetah Conservation Fund in Namibia. He is the subject of this book and has charmed many visitors, school groups, and area farmers. Chewbaaka is a rescued cheetah, raised with humans, and has a powerful purr. However, it is Laurie Marker, Time magazine's Hero of the Planet, who is responsible for his success story. Her research, PR work, and guidance have changed the cheetah's survival rates. In addition to bits of information about the animal's eating habits, size, and lifespan, Hansen, who worked for the CCF, also outlines the organization's methodology, care, and programming. Readers go along with Dr. Marker to rescue a baby cheetah, walk into the veterinary surgery to see a life saved, and observe a successful cheetah release. Well-conceived placement of the text and photographs with CCF's trademark side-strip of cheetah fur make the pages pop, but part of the report feels like "what Hansen did on her summer vacation" because of the short, choppy sentences. Overall, though, this is an effective photo journal of an African adventure and a CCF publicity piece outlining its work. It shows progress against ignorance and destruction as area farmers are educated to the real versus perceived threats to the cheetah and are given specially trained dogs to protect their goats. While there are many other books about cheetahs, this is the only one about the CCF in action.—Nancy Call, Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos, CA

Gr 2–6—Hughes penned more than 250 poems expressly for children, which were previously published in The Mermaid's Purse, The Cat and the Cuckoo, Season Songs, and others. Now they are gathered together in one book beginning with the volumes most suited for elementary-age children and progressing in complexity. Some of Hughes's witty and irreverent verses require sophisticated and patient readers because he includes creative grammar when he wants them to rhyme ("Far undergrounded, Moon-miners dumbfounded") and uses mixed cadences within a single poem that confound reading aloud without practice. Words more commonly used in England, "your telly's there," and "pans spitting by sixes" may slow some American children; however, the sheer variety of poetic styles will please many others. Briggs's stellar ink, mostly realistic illustrations suffuse the sections for younger children, where animals and family are the subjects, and become sparer for longer narrative poems. Although the audience may be somewhat limited, this is an important addition to any large poetry collection.—Kirsten Cutler, Sonoma County Library, CA

PreS-Gr 2—The abstract concept of time is explained in child-friendly terms: "A second is a hiccup—/The time it takes to kiss your mom/Or jump a rope/Or turn around." A minute is long enough to "sing just one small song," and in an hour, you could build a sandcastle, run through a sprinkler, climb a tree, and play pretend. A day "needs filling, like a cup," and a week is explained as "Seven wake-ups, seven sleeps." In a month, a scraped shin will heal with "brand-new skin," and by the end of a year, "You'll grow right out of your old shoes." Denton's charming watercolor-and-ink vignettes, showing three friends interacting with one another and with their families, celebrate their joys and accomplishments with warmth and affection. The lyrical, rhyming text answers deceptively simple childhood questions with great flair.—Linda Ludke, London Public Library, Ontario, Canada

Gr 2–5—These 30 poems by various writers were all written to their subjects, directly addressing "skyscrapers, mosquitoes, and other fun things." Yet, a ballad to the Vietnam Memorial sits between a vacuous bit of verse to a police officer's horse and a longer poem to the moon. On occasion, similar subjects will follow one another. The most interesting of these pairings are two selections to bees, "Straight Talk" by Nikki Grimes, and "Bee, I'm expecting you!" by Emily Dickinson (though the poet's original punctuation has been edited). There are several poems about sea life. Many of the better selections could be used to explore voice, address, looking at things in new ways, tone, and metaphor, but others are uninspired and flat. Norman MacCaig's "Toad" offers one of the collection's most unique poetic voices, as does Bobbi Katz's "Camel Question." Marjorie Maddox writes with zany hyperbole a letter to a mailbox. Rayevsky's watercolors are often gray without reason and rarely lend themselves to enriching readers' experience of the poems. Despite its many excellent elements, this collection is a mixed bag.—Teresa Pfeifer, Alfred Zanetti Montessori Magnet School, Springfield, MA

Gr 2–6—These titles, part of a five-book series, are colorful, informative, and fun to read. They cover the basics, focusing on girls, with plenty of cautions about safety. However, there is no reason to divide the subject up into separate books when one would be far more useful. Positive points are the good action photos, lively texts, attractive layout, quotes from Olympic medalists, good advice for choosing a gym, and emphasis on personal responsibility for safety. On the negative side: photos are not captioned, and the short bibliographies repeat some of the titles from one book to another. Dan Gutman's Gymnastics (Viking, 1996), Luan Peszek's The Gymnastics Almanac (Lowell House, 1998), Linda Wallenberg Bragg's Play-by-Play Gymnastics (Lerner, 2000), and Joan Jackman's The Young Gymnast (DK, 1995) are all better choices.—Kate Kohlbeck, Randall School, Waukesha, WI

Gr 2–4—Each book opens with a series of basic questions a class will answer during the field trip that follows. For example, Baseball focuses on the size and capacity of the stadium and includes a tour of the clubhouse, training room, and press box. The students meet various workers, such as trainers and groundskeepers and a bat boy and bat girl. In the press box, they see "the microphone where the radio announcer describes the game and tells people at home what's happening." Each book adheres closely to its formula, including a simple activity and a few "fun facts" in the back matter. The language is carefully limited to the simplest vocabulary, and it borders on oversimplification. The generic introductions fail to add context or perspective to the subjects. The design is clear, but the digitally rendered, color cartoon illustrations are awkward and add little. These titles have been crafted to the needs of primary-grade readers, but there are many better choices on these topics.—Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA

PreS-Gr 3—Eliyahu Hanavi (the prophet Elijah) is a beloved figure in Jewish folklore; disguised as a poor traveler, he teaches lessons and confers blessings. This book, based on a traditional tale, is set in old Baghdad. Shlomo and Miriam love to have a visitor each week at their Sabbath table. One quiet Friday, they search for a guest, but discover that "every traveler, every lonely or poor person, already had a place to eat." They are thrilled when a stranger (Elijah) finally arrives to share their meal. Before leaving, he blesses them with a riddle, telling them that their comfortable home will become "much, much better" with a sticky tablecloth, books out of place, and crumbs on the floor. A year later the man returns to find the house just as he described, due to the joyful addition of a baby to the family. This charming tale is told in clear language with folksy cadences. The bright, opaque paintings, surrounded by cheerfully patterned borders, are full of lively detail. While some vocabulary will be familiar primarily to Orthodox Jews, the terms are defined in a glossary, and a note explains the role of Elijah in Jewish tradition. Readers of all backgrounds will be delighted with this well-told tale about the importance of children.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL

Gr 2–6—This visual and aural feast invites parents, educators, and young listeners to "listen and look" at 13 examples of pictorial music and visual masterpieces. The introduction prepares readers with an explanation of the connections between composers' notes and art images. A woodblock print by Utagawa Hiroshige, the pointillism of Seurat, and landscapes by Jacob van Ruisdael and Thomas Cole are among those included in the presentation. The paired examples invite listeners to identify solo instruments or orchestral themes that characterize an image found in the visual art, e.g., "Can you hear the gun battles?" in a pairing of a Remington painting with Aaron Copeland's Billy the Kid: Gun Battle. Although seven of the musical pieces are by either Vivaldi or Saint-Saëns, the recordings of works by Gershwin, Tchaikovsky, Rimsky-Korsakov, and Copland reflect a broad range of artists and orchestral styles from America and Europe. This treasure completes a larger unit of study or simply gives pleasure with a presentation of inspired works in dual media for children's appreciation.—Mary Elam, Forman Elementary School, Plano, TX

Gr 1–3—This version of a Hungarian folktale is perfectly suited to a storytelling performance. A little rooster finds a diamond button, only to have it snatched up by a greedy king. The rooster goes to the palace and demands that it be returned. The monarch tries to get rid of him, but he uses his amazing magic stomach to escape from a well, a fire, and a beehive. Finally he not only wins the button back, but manages to obtain all of the king's treasure as well. The story is simple but amusing and has good cadence and pacing. MacDonald has eliminated all extraneous detail so movement from scene to scene is quick. There is much here to delight listeners, especially when the rooster releases a swarm of bees in the king's baggy pants. Terry's plucky acrylic illustrations heighten the humor. He uses rich, contrasting colors and exaggerated facial features to make the characters and scenes energetically funny. Celia Barker Lottridge's version (Groundwood, 2001) is illustrated by Joanne Fitzgerald with traditional watercolor-and-ink pictures, and the story is told with more embellishment. It is well suited for individual reading, but MacDonald's is better for group sharing.—Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

Gr 3–5—These titles examine early British settlements in Colonial America, including two failed attempts off the coast of present-day North Carolina and a successful colony in New England. Massachusetts simplifies a significant amount of American history, creating some problems in accuracy. The author uses the term Pilgrims exclusively, without addressing the group's Puritan basis. He also states that "102 Pilgrims sailed for Virginia," giving the misleading impression that all members of the group were seeking religious freedom. The use of the location "Virginia" without further explanation is also confusing. Initially, the area called "Virginia" extended far beyond the borders of the current state. While the Puritans did settle in a different area from where they originally intended, they did not aim as far south as present-day Virginia. A disconnect between the text and the illustrations causes a problem in Roanoke. While the text correctly states that "CRO" was found carved into a tree and "CROATOAN" on a fence post, two illustrations depict Europeans looking at "CROATOAN" carved into a tree. Otherwise, the title provides a good outline of the colony's origins. The series seeks to differentiate itself by including primary-source materials. However, the sources chosen are mostly illustrations, or text superimposed on illustrations, without further explanation. While some state standards require using primary sources with young children, these titles are too difficult for beginners and too simplified for older students.—Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, St. Christopher's School, Richmond, VA

Gr 1–4—Twins Matt and Bibi follow up Mummy Math (Holt, 2005) with a new archaeology/math adventure. This time they accompany their scientist parents to Peru. By interpreting patterns woven into an Inca shawl, the youngsters follow clues to the Lost City of Quwi, whose location has eluded explorers for centuries. While the story defies logic and teaches little about local culture, it might serve as an introduction to classroom activities on sequence and pattern perception. Langdo's cartoonlike illustrations adequately depict patterns to decipher but do little to enliven the narrative. In fact, Matt, Bibi, and their canine companion seem oddly static even in dangerous situations. A list of suggested activities follows the story's conclusion. Jennifer Rozines Roy and Gregory Roy's Patterns in Nature (Benchmark, 2005) reinforces math concepts in a more straightforward presentation.—Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Gr 3–6—In flowing text, illustrated with striking single- and double-page paintings and smaller panels, O'Brien retells the story of the Bounty's fateful voyage and William Bligh, the ship's brilliant but harsh, unyielding captain. The book includes a map showing the route of the voyage, a diagram of the vessel, and a description of the living conditions onboard. The author traces the beginnings of the conflict between Bligh and his second-in-command, Fletcher Christian, which led to the mutiny; the dangerous journey and eventual return of the captain and his loyal seamen to England; the settling of Christian and his followers on Pitcairn Island; and the punishment of the surviving mutineers. Although there is some fictionalization of dialogue, thoughts, and feelings, this is a great tale of adventure and conflict. The handsome illustrations, done in watercolor and gouache, are packed with details and action, and add to the drama.—Ann Joslin, Fort LeBoef School District, Waterford, PA

K-Gr 2—Eye-pleasing layouts feature full-color photographs and simple but clear texts in a large font against lavender backgrounds. Captions add additional information. The books offer overviews of the animals, with basic material about how they help people. Most pages have three to five sentences. The full-page close-ups will surely elicit squeals of ugly-animal delight from young readers. A subtle message about how looks can be deceiving is worked into the texts. Though interesting for browsing, the brevity of these titles may leave readers with lingering questions such as what a baby bat eats when it is with its mother for the first weeks and what the tube used by the mosquito to suck blood is called. Additional purchases for those looking to add books with the "eww!" factor to their collections.—Cathie Bashaw Morton, Millbrook Central School District, NY

PreS-Gr 1—This highly successful collaboration is both visually appealing and perfect for the targeted age group. Sammy Spider gently leads readers through the Passover Seder, preceded by the ritual of discarding leavened products and including all sorts of fun songs set to popular tunes. This Haggadah may be used to act the story out in a classroom environment or read to children to familiarize them with the account of the Jews' exodus from Egypt. Colorful paper-collage illustrations and an attractive layout move the text along seamlessly.—Lisa Silverman, Sinai Temple Library, Los Angeles

K-Gr 4—Ruurs introduces youngsters to some animals that they might see in their own yards. Among the featured creatures are a snail, wasp, mouse, and wren. Broda's skillful paper sculptures enliven the pages with a colorful depiction of the animal in its surroundings; each one faces a gray-and-white silhouette above the text. In many cases, the monochromatic picture features the young, such as tadpoles and spiderlings, but this relationship does not always hold true. Notes at the end provide additional information as well as clues to encourage observers to find the creature in one picture that will be featured on the following pages. Finding an elusive ladybug on each spread poses an additional visual challenge. Ruurs also suggests ways to make backyards more inviting for wildlife. The size and type of illustrations limit the book's use with groups and might require some hand-selling to move it off the shelves. One-on-one sharing with an adult or individual reading by older children could encourage outdoor observation and involvement. Nic Bishop offers photos of over 100 creatures in the oversize Backyard Detectives (Scholastic, 2002). Those in search of a portable book for outdoor identification might consider Catherine Howell's Backyard Wilderness (National Geographic, 2003).—Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato

PreS-Gr 2—These visually appealing books offer basic information such as the animals' appearance, diet, habitat, and enemies. One or two paragraphs of text face close-up color photographs that are sure to elicit oohs and aahs of delight from readers as they examine the bears and sharks pictured. The texts are simple but clearly presented in a large, easy-to-read font, and captions have additional interesting facts. The books conclude with a subtle message concerning the need to protect the environment and these animals. Useful for general reading or for basic research projects.—Cathie Bashaw Morton, Millbrook Central School District, NY

K-Gr 3—While these beginning biographies are clear and to the point without fictionalizing facts, the brevity of information makes them better as introductions to these figures than for reports. Sentences are clear and concise. The books are abundantly illustrated with photos and reproductions, many full page, and the print is large. Throughout the texts, words that appear in the glossary are highlighted in red type. Additional, where needed.—Lisa Gangemi Kropp, Middle Country Public Library, Centereach, NY

PreS—This sweet and simple book can be used to calm a young child and to introduce yoga poses. It is very similar to this author and illustrator's Little Yoga (Holt, 2005). Colorful pages show a toddler in an easy pose opposite an animal in a similar position. The book is fun to share, even in a group storytime, while letting children do their own thing. Back matter includes explanations of the poses and general tips on practice for adults. A photo spread shows children practicing the postures. Some of them involve movement, which is not made clear from either the drawings or photographs, though it is explained in the notes. The author emphasizes that this is not a manual but an invitation to have fun and relax together; the book works well on that level. For a little more instruction, try Karen Pierce's Yoga Bear: Yoga for Youngsters (NorthWord, 2004).—Susan Oliver, Tampa-Hillsborough Public Library System, FL

Gr 1–5—Winter documents the controversy surrounding New York City's famous red-tailed hawk. When Pale Male and his mate built a nest high on the side of a Fifth Avenue apartment building, they attracted the attention of local bird-watchers. The humans celebrated when baby hawks hatched, grew, and learned to fly. However, some residents complained about bird droppings and animal remains falling from the hawks' living space. In December 2004, the nest was removed, generating local protests and national media attention. Eventually, the nesting spot was restored. As Winter indicates in an author's note, Pale Male has fathered more than 20 chicks with a number of mates since 1993. Winter's illustrations subtly bring out the humor of the situation. While earthbound humans stare up at the birds, applaud the chicks' hatching, and wave signs to protest the nest's removal, the redtails carry on with their lives above the fray. Their inscrutable expressions vary little as they remain intent on hunting yet another mouse or small bird. Only the pink, heart-shaped clouds in the sky behind their courtship flight hint at possible avian emotion. The book should increase readers' awareness of these common predators in their surroundings, no matter where they live. Those who want to learn more facts about the species might consult Doug Wechsler's Red-Tailed Hawks (Rosen, 2001). Barbara Bash introduces a number of other avian city dwellers in Urban Roosts (Little, Brown, 1992).—Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Gr 2–4—Zoehfeld presents the exciting story of Howard Carter's discovery of the tomb of Egypt's boy-king, beginning with Carter's childhood in England. As a young man and a painter, he had the opportunity to visit Egypt, where he worked closely with and learned from archaeologists. He went on to become Chief Inspector for Antiquities and, contrary to popular belief, was convinced that there was still at least one more pharaoh to be discovered in the Valley of the Kings. He was introduced to Lord Carnarvon, and the rest is amazing history. This beginning chapter book vividly describes how Carter's determination led to one of the most exciting discoveries of all time. It presents the facts objectively, and the story of the curse is downplayed, noting, "the stories of the curses were all made up." This book will appeal to young readers in search of true adventure.—Carole Phillips, Greenacres Elementary School, Scarsdale, NY