Reviews: Preschool to Grade 4

PreS-Gr 1—A lonely old woman sits on a park bench looking miserable, until one day she finds "a stray…puppy." The colorful, ink-outlined illustrations show Mildred smiling as she watches a baby elephant rooting through an overturned garbage can. She decides to take him home and walks off leading him by his trunk. Because her new "puppy" will eat only one thing, she names him Peanut and the two settle into a comfortable friendship. Although Mildred realizes that her pet is different from other dogs, she still loves him dearly. When a man from the circus appears to reclaim him, she is again plunged into sadness, but after watching him perform, she is reassured that Peanut is happy to be home. Mildred returns to her lonely bench until a camel ambles by and she takes the "stray…kitten" home. The language is spare and simple, and much of the storytelling is done through the droll cartoon illustrations, which are set against white backdrops. Readers will be amused by Mildred's misconception about Peanut's identity, entertained by the elephant's un-doglike behavior, and charmed by the characters' affection for each other. This unpretentious yet moving story about loss, sadness, and joy makes a strong addition to storytimes about feelings and older people.—Linda M. Kenton, San Rafael Public Library, CA

K-Gr 2—In this fourth Fly Guy adventure, the same big-eyed cartoon characters occupy ample white space and find themselves in a humorous situation. Grandma has, indeed, swallowed Fly Guy. The standard scenario unfolds and, in the end, everyone lives happily ever after. Though not the strongest in the series, the book will please fans and the fly will gain unprecedented sympathy. Beginning readers will enjoy practicing their new skill with familiar characters and a fun story.—Linda M. Kenton, San Rafael Public Library, CA

K-Gr 2—Readers familiar with My Cat, the Silliest Cat in the World (Abrams, 2006) already know that this pet is no ordinary feline. It is, in fact, an elephant. And therefore, what follows is an entertaining romp as this new companion displays catlike behavior in a huge way. This time the clueless man gives his "cat" a toy elephant to toss around while he is absent, completely misunderstanding its disinterest in the prop. Coming to a satisfying and hilarious conclusion, this story has colorful pen-and-ink illustrations that detail the frisky antics of an enormous creature, one that even sits on top of an old upright piano. A fun addition for storytimes.—Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA

PreS-Gr 1—The tooth fairy begins her story by correcting misinformation about her manner of dress: "I NEVER wear pink flouncing skirts or twinkling glass slippers! That's Cinderella." To explain her go-it-alone attitude, she says: "I DON'T rely on elves to help me out or flying reindeer to get me around. That's Santa." She describes herself as athletic, graceful, self-reliant, brave, strong, and smart. She searches through dirty socks, pajama pockets, and clenched fists to gather fallen teeth while hauling around heavy quarters and avoiding common household pets. Her over-the-top confidence and audacious attitude strain the "likability" factor of this long-winded fairy as she explains her responsibilities. Richly colored, humorous illustrations, rendered in acrylic and oil paints, pencil, and ballpoint pen, are the highlight of this tale. The pictures reveal a redheaded sprite in purple who is always accompanied by three assistant lightning bugs. Her mode of transportation is a flat, tooth-shaped, booster-powered board as she collects teeth from children throughout the country. But the question still remains, what does she do with all those teeth? An additional purchase, this is a wordy book about an illustrious but illusive childhood fantasy.—Maryann H. Owen, Racine Public Library, WI

K-Gr 3—This lovely book celebrates nature and the great north woods between Canada and the United States, an area where wolves can sometimes be seen. One night, Nell and her uncle drive past the cabins nestled around a lake, then they climb until they can see the glittering stars above them and try out their wolf calls. As Nell learns to howl, the pack answers back, and together their songs resound over the hills and water. The text and illustrations both convey the wonder and mystery of nature as the child feels trepidation about the wolves and experiences joy when they answer her. The wolves frame the lower half of the lush, verdant spreads. Back matter offers additional, interesting information on these animals and suggestions on how readers can try howling with wolves themselves. A unique look at a controversial species, this title should be a welcome addition to most collections.—Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA

K-Gr 3—Jeremy desperately wants a pair of advertised sneakers. "I have dreams about those shoes. Black high-tops. Two white stripes." In fact, some of his classmates already own them. However, money is tight, and his grandmother reminds him that there is a difference between what he wants and what he needs (he needs winter boots). He buys with his own money a used pair of the cool sneakers even though they are too small, saying "sometimes shoes stretch," but ends up with bandage-covered feet. This story exposes the value many children place on wearing the same cool clothing as or fitting in with the in-crowd; however, a message of generosity shines through when Jeremy gives his prized sneakers to a friend in need who has smaller feet. Illustrations done in pencil, ink, and watercolors effectively depict the grays and browns of the wintertime inner-city setting, the institutional greens and blues of the school, and the warm hues of this African-American home. The characters' faces, drawn with thin lines, wide-set eyes, and a variety of skin tones, are expressive. A poignant, thought-provoking book.—Kirsten Cutler, Sonoma County Library, CA

PreS-Gr 3—Filled with the gorgeously detailed watercolor and gouache illustrations that distinguish her work, this Arctic version of a classic tale is pure Brett. In the wintry white world of the far north, Aloo-ki, a young Inuit girl, steps into the role of Goldilocks. Separated from her team of huskies while fishing among ice floes, she stumbles upon the three snow bears' empty igloo. She proceeds to taste their soup, try on their boots, and, as expected, sample each of their beds before falling asleep in Baby Bear's pile of cozy furs. Meanwhile, the polar bears rescue Aloo-ki's dog team and bring them back to the igloo, where they discover evidence of the intruder and quickly locate the sleeping girl. Awakened to find herself face-to-face with three huge bears, Aloo-ki rushes outdoors, gathers her huskies, and waves a thank-you before hurrying away on her sled. The plot remains true to the progression of the traditional tale and the narrative moves swiftly. Side panels depict regional fauna and help convey the action. Aloo-ki and many of the animals wear clothing inspired by Inuit designs, adding splashes of color to the snowy backdrops. This book is sure to be appreciated by the author's fans and those seeking multicultural variations on the Goldilocks story.—Piper Nyman, Brookmeade Elementary School, Nashville, TN

K-Gr 2—When her teacher announces a letter-writing contest to decide which four students will be chosen to help lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider, in Arlington National Cemetery, Anna is determined to win. The third grader has never before been picked for anything—not the softball or the basketball team, yet she daydreams about being given this opportunity. On the day of the announcement, the letter "From Natalie (with help from Anna)" is chosen. It asks for Anna to accompany her. It isn't until the conclusion of the book that readers actually realize that Anna is blind and Natalie is her seeing-eye dog. A page about "Dogs in War" and information about the National War Dog Memorial Fund to honor the service of dogs in wartime is appended. Pen and ink and watercolor artwork dramatically fills the spreads. While it will take careful reading to follow the clues, the story will gain an even greater appreciation the second time.—Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA

PreS—This delightful book has a quiet cadence similar to Margaret Wise Brown's Goodnight Moon (HarperCollins, 1947) as a child winds down from a busy day. After being tucked in by a loving parent, a young orangutan lies in bed and bids a loving goodnight to each body part: "Goodnight, feet. Thanks for running me around today" and "Legs, get some rest. We've got a lot of jumping to do tomorrow." After a kiss on the forehead from the parent, the youngster heads off to sleep: "Goodnight, me. See you in the morning." Using a mix of pencil, acrylic paints, and watercolors, Quay has created uncluttered spreads that focus on the highlighted body parts. The colors are as soothing as the gentle text: soft purple backgrounds, muted white bedding, and a warm shade of orange for the orangutan. The protagonist's face is expressive and childlike. Sure to ease tired readers toward sleep, this offering is perfect for bedtime or pajama storytimes.—Catherine Callegari, Gay-Kimball Library, Troy, NH

PreS-Gr 1—Merriment and mayhem fill the castle when the prince won't go to bed. From Nanny to the Royal Guard, a multitude of palace servants attempts to lull the young boy off to dreamland. One after another, the adults try to identify what the prince needs (a bubble bath, a softer pillow, a peach-and-plum pudding), to no avail. Round and round they go until the prince's older sister solves the problem by giving her brother a goodnight kiss. This story is laugh-out-loud funny for children who know full well that they put their own parents through this nightly ordeal. Told with bright and playful language and a hearty helping of rhyme ("They STRUM-STRUMMED through the castle,/they PIPE-PIPED through the hall,/a band of court musicians,/bagpipes, lute, and all"), the text is perfect for reading aloud. Done in rich tones, the lively illustrations combine paint and collage to create a detailed medieval setting. The characters' faces are brimming with emotion and exasperation, and the figures fairly bound from the pages. Many of the spreads are encased in gilded frames, adding to the regal mood. A great package for children who soak up rhyme and fun wherever they can.—Joan Kindig, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA

PreS-Gr 3—This adult author's stab at writing for children sends a nice message, but it is wrapped in a puzzling and not particularly satisfying package. Solomon has two belly buttons. On discovering that everybody else only has one, he feels that he doesn't belong. He tries to give the spare away, first to a baby, then to a talking turtle. Then he seeks information from an expert whose scornful dismissal sends the boy away in tears. Despondent, he wanders off and bumps into—of all people—a "very famous movie director" who bears a powerful resemblance to Steven Spielberg. The director thinks Solomon's extra belly button is "special" and offers to make a movie about it. The child's attitude changes completely, and the story ends on a happy note. Niemann's illustrations feature heavy black outlines, spare backgrounds, and an eye-pleasing burnt-umber-and-Confederate-gray palette. The text is light and reads easily, perfect for short attention spans. The rare readers who develop an emotional investment in this story may stop to ponder its mysteries but the rest will simply put this book down as soon as they finish it and move on to something else.—Catherine Threadgill, Charleston County Public Library, SC

PreS-K—Familiar items are paired in a rhyming text that builds the concept of association. "We go together like socks and shoes./We go together like cow and moo." The final page shows a parent and child and suggests, "We go together, that's what we do. We go together because you love me and I love you." Using the very readable pictures and predictable scheme, children will easily finish the lines. They will also enjoy thinking of other go-together pairs. The colorful illustrations are uncomplicated, yet interesting enough to encourage conversation. Dancing cows, a bathing skunk, and a fire-breathing dragon toasting marshmallows add subtle humor. A solid choice for building pre-literacy skills.—Carolyn Janssen, Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, OH

PreS-Gr 2—Plump poultry take to the dance floor as a rhyming text helps young readers count from 1 to 10. The fowls' faces are wonderfully expressive—a haughty ballerina with closed eyes and down-turned mouth contrasts with the seven gleeful birds that "get up and bump and grind." Five chickens do the hula in grass skirts, while nine dance the cha-cha in Latin costumes. After the count finishes with 10 energetic individuals who "shimmy shimmy/SHAKE," the action stops, as the birds stare out at readers with wide-open, egg-shaped eyes, and the text declares, "But one little chicken/will not bugaloo." A turn of the page informs children, "Oh my gosh! It's you!" and they are then encouraged to "Make your own music/with wax paper and a comb/and dance! dance! dance!/till the cows come home." The computer-generated illustrations are mostly done in pastel shades-pastel chickens, pastel costumes, pastel backgrounds, and occasionally pastel lettering. Some spreads, like the last one done mainly in lavenders with a little yellow, appear faded or unfinished. The outlines are a little faint for large group sharing. Nonetheless, these birds are having a great time, and youngsters will want to "get up and shake a leg" and join the fun.—Mary Jean Smith, Southside Elementary School, Lebanon, TN

PreS-Gr 2—As in his Go Away, Big Green Monster! (Little, Brown, 2005), Emberley gradually assembles, via die cuts, a mean and scary "Big Bad Bullybug" from outer space who threatens to bite, pinch, and tickle itty-bitty baby bugs. Luckily for the small fliers, a human with a huge sneaker is willing to do away with the pink-polka-dotted meanie. The cobalt blue backgrounds create a grand contrast for the electric greens, oranges, and yellows that dominate the bug parts. Despite the visual panache of the giant foot, it seems a shame that the bullybug couldn't learn a lesson instead of being "skwooshed!"—Gay Lynn Van Vleck, Henrico County Library, Glen Allen, VA

PreS-Gr 3—Chloe's grandparents own Maya's Fresh Fish Diner and she often visits them there. She loves to hear Grandpa Jack tell his "tattoo tales." When a customer asks about his rope tattoo, he launches into a wild story, describing how he loved to lasso things as a child, worked at the docks, and then joined the Navy as a cook's assistant. During his subsequent adventures, he almost caught a humongous flying fish, had to abandon ship when a large green octopus sank the vessel, was rescued by a mermaid, and then was marooned on an island. He trekked through the forest, met the island's inhabitants (who were all covered in tattoos), and fell in love with his future wife, before being rescued and returning home with her to open a restaurant. A series of vignettes, done in bright crisp watercolors, humorously highlights the riotous scenes, and the pictures are filled with minute details including individual fish scales, myriad tattoos, and underwater animals. An eye-catching cover shows Grandpa Jack surrounded by enticing images reflecting his tall tales, and family snapshots and close-ups of his tattoos decorate the endpapers. Children will relish this amusing tall tale and delight in its visual elements.—Kirsten Cutler, Sonoma County Library, CA

PreS-K—As a young rabbit rushes out to play one wintry morning, he asks his mother, "What is snow?" But Mom leaves it to Danny to figure it out for himself. He sees that the trees and bushes are covered in white and have taken on the shapes of different kinds of animal friends. He leapfrogs over the smaller ones. When he tries to scale "the ostrich," it's too tall, and he trips over the branches. As Danny gets cold and tired, the big white mounds all start looking like wolves. He runs, hops, and zigzags all over, knocking the snow off the bushes in the process. Danny is puzzled as to where all of his friends have gone. At the end of the day, when Mom asks if he discovered what snow is, he answers, "Yes, Mommy. I know what snow is today…but I can't wait to see what it will be tomorrow!" The acrylic-and-pastel illustrations in muted colors expertly convey the frosty feel, and the blanketed bushes actually assume the various animal shapes. This is a pleasant romp, but it never does explain what snow really is.—Ieva Bates, Ann Arbor District Library, MI

PreS-Gr 2—Best friends Randolph (a beaver) and Ivy (a Canada goose) do everything together until Ivy receives an invitation to an all-girls sleepover at her cousin's beach house. Her constant chatter about the party has her friend feeling a little left out and a bit jealous. "That's when Randolph's insides changed from very-best-friend insides to horrible, rotten, awful, and icky insides." Ivy is totally oblivious to his feelings. She doesn't even find it odd when Randolph insists that she take a huge heavy blanket, a pointy stick for protection from beach bears, or a marshmallow necklace to throw at the bears should they attack. She even carries the extra-heavy suitcase that Randolph has filled with logs. At first, he is pleased with his rotten self, but then he begins to miss his best friend and feels remorse. Ironically, it is Randolph's rotten tricks that save the party when the guests are accidentally locked out of the house and must spend the night on the beach. The acrylic cartoons are colorful, yet simple. Facial detail is minimal, but still expressive. Randolph changes from nice guy to reprobate with just the addition of two heavy brows above his eyes. The illustrations add humor, extend the narrative, and complete the story with dialogue balloons. Readers will recognize a bit of themselves in Randolph. Friends (or siblings) will appreciate the strength of relationships and the importance of forgiveness. A great title for one-on-one or individual reading.—Carolyn Janssen, Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, OH

K-Gr 3—Among the many workers profiled here are a street sweeper, a museum security guard, newspaper printers, a disc jockey, bridge painters, and zookeepers who keep the lights bright in the "World of Night" so that the nocturnal animals can sleep. Quirky gouache paintings capture the mood of this alternative world with its vibrant life. The story begins by addressing an imaginary someone who wishes he didn't have to go to bed just yet. Did you know that "there are people out there awake doing all sorts of interesting things…?" The text mentions surveillance systems in the museum and a GPS that is used by the fishermen (an explanatory note is added). A question at the bottom of each right page foreshadows the next worker: "Who does the street sweeper stop to watch so late at night? WINDOW DRESSERS," busy with their mannequins and "feathers, felt, and fluff." Text and illustrations are equally unique. A bright yellow page closes the story with the cast of characters gathered for coffee at an all-night café.—Teresa Pfeifer, Alfred Zanetti Montessori Magnet School, Springfield, MA

Gr 1–4—In a series of letters to his grandchild, a 78-year-old man describes his expedition to the North Pole to see the Last Polar Bears before melting snowcaps destroy their habitat. He and his contrary dog, Roo, sail from England aboard the Unsinkable. Eventually, they reach their destination, a town called Walrus, population 17 ½. The bulk of the story takes place here, as Grandfather and Roo encounter unruly, drunk wolves who constantly demand the last of their dried fish, a snow poet and sculptor, and a penguin that Grandfather accidentally knocks out with a golf ball. When the sun and moon are side by side in the sky, Grandfather knows it's time to begin their trek up Great Bear Ridge, and Roo finally becomes useful, pulling the trolley (a golf bag on wheels) full of rations. On the 40th day of October, they reach the top and spy the objects of their quest. This fantasy has many bizarre elements, few of which hold much appeal for children, and the writing has a detached quality. Horse's black-and-white line drawings are full of whimsy, but they can't make up for the story's adult tone.—Alison Grant, Ruby S. Thomas Elementary School, Las Vegas, NV

Gr 2–4—In this installment in the series, squirrels Lexington and his cousin Lenox venture outside of Central Park in search of the New York City streets for which they are named. They discover a very harsh city quite different from their tree-filled home and, after an adventure in Bloomingdale's, end up being captured for a clothing-store window display, until they are saved by Lexi's guinea pig friend, PeeWee, and the rest of the squirrel relatives. The story, narrated by Lexi, is set in large type, and line drawings are sprinkled throughout, making this a suitable read for children transitioning into chapter books. It is a solid read, but the plot lacks excitement at times. It's likely to resonate most with Manhattan residents or those very familiar with the city since there are many details specific to it. Hurwitz does a good job of filling readers in on what happened in the previous books, so the story can be enjoyed on its own.—Clare A. Dombrowski, Amesbury Public Library, MA

PreS-Gr 1—Chester, a black-and-white dog, likes his family, but they are so busy that hey forget to take him on his daily walks. Sadly, he decides to find another home and leaves, carrying his doghouse on his head, with his friend, a bird, perched on top. He learns quickly that his task will not be easy: the forest birds don't want him disturbing their peace and the city is too big and uncaring. After being taken in by a rich lady who pampers him and treats him "like a toy," the pup flees her mansion and finds his family; they have been searching for him all along. Chester and the bird settle down again at home, where he is treated just right. This slight story is made special by rather quirky soft pastel illustrations, created in the style of Lane Smith or Yumi Heo. The pictures offer much to look at and are packaged in an elegant format with lots of white space. The endpapers show many dogs toting their houses and looking for a home. Children will have fun finding the bird in each picture, although it is never mentioned in the text. A pleasant, but not essential purchase.—Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA

PreS-K—A nice read-aloud for the beginning of the school year as youngsters describe some of their favorite kindergarten activities. "We like our garden./We like our pet./We like saying the alphabet." Other activities include making and displaying artwork, having a snack, dressing up to play, sharing a book with a classmate, and taking a little rest. Soft, rainbow watercolor washes with pen and ink are perfect for the especially cute students—kittens, puppies, bunnies, etc. The teacher is a cheery fox. This simple book will be a big hit. Pair it with Jessica Harper's A Place Called Kindergarten (Putnam, 2006) for a thematic storyhour.—Teresa Pfeifer, Alfred Zanetti Montessori Magnet School, Springfield, MA

K-Gr 1—Painted paper cuts in jewel colors graphically portray the principal foods eaten by 14 different animals. Beginning with "worm-apple," the book proceeds to show the culinary delights favored by both ordinary fauna, such as frogs, birds, and squirrels, as well as that of the more exotic anteater and panda. Two unusual foods—"nectar" for bees and "squid" for whales—are introduced amid the other more obvious choices. The final page offers a picture of ice cream, asking who eats it, thereby allowing young listeners to see their own ties to the animal kingdom. Using bold, simple, brightly colored shapes like those found in the works of Lois Ehlert, but placing them on backgrounds of equally bold contrasting colors, the animals and their dinners are easily identified and, thus, will have instant kid appeal. As with One Some Many (2004) and Over Under (2005, both Tundra), the author and illustrator provide an excellent introduction for those just starting to learn about relationships, in this case those that are part of the food chain. The bright colors and clever designs will especially attract toddlers and preschoolers, inviting them to portray their own ideas of other animals and their favorite "eats" with simple cutout shapes. A good choice from both an artistic and scientific point of view.—Nancy Menaldi-Scanlan, LaSalle Academy, Providence, RI

K-Gr 2—This easy reader is more predictable and contrived than this team's The Best Seat in Second Grade (HarperCollins, 2005). Ollie yearns to be the best at something. When assigned to cook his family's favorite dish to surprise a television chef visiting his classroom, he sees a chance to excel. But unfortunately, he cannot find a dish that everyone agrees upon. Finally, he asks his family to name their favorite foods, and he creates a colorful macaroni-and-cheese dish that wins the chef's praise. One has to wonder why he didn't ask his family in the first place and avoid all the frustration. Also, Ollie's parents don't supervise his use of a hot oven, which seems ill-advised. Carter's pleasing watercolor illustrations are the highlight here, especially the scenes of Ollie's warm, African-American family. Fans of the previous books may enjoy visiting with Mr. Hopper and his students, but, for most, this title is an additional purchase.—Barbara Katz, Parish Episcopal School, Dallas, TX

Gr 2–5—To most people, Vitebsk in the late 1800s is one of the dullest towns in Russia, but Marc Chagall's ability to see the enchantment in all things makes even the mundane seem exciting to him. Kimmel paints a fascinating picture of the artist's young years, including details about his struggles in school and within his family. A classmate helps to open the door to his dreams and his parents move from not supporting his desire to helping him explore his deep interest in art. The story moves along at a good pace as much of it is told through dialogue. The author skillfully weaves actual events into the narrative. The black-and-white illustrations contain vivid details and add depth to the story. An author's note and a list of books about Chagall are appended, a helpful inclusion to this work of fiction. It's an engaging beginning chapter book that promotes art and the importance of holding on to one's dreams.—Michelle Easley, Sandtown Middle School, Atlanta, GA

K-Gr 2—Plump Cherry Sullivan is a sad, vulnerable child. Ridiculed by her classmates, she keeps to herself at school and on the playground as she tries hard not to be noticed. Although one boy, Angelo, seems nice, she is too shy to approach him. While visiting her dad at work at the animal shelter, she discovers a funny, wrinkly dog and falls instantly in love. She names the pup Olive and desperately hopes that no one comes to claim her. Their daily walks are happy times and as the girl's love for the pup grows, so does her own self-confidence. When two mean girls from school poke fun at Olive, Cherry lets them know that the dog is not to be laughed at. Eventually her owners do appear to retrieve her, but Cherry is relieved to find that she belongs to Angelo. He thanks her for taking such good care of his pet and asks if she would like to visit her at his house. The story ends with the two new friends petting Olive/Chocolate together. The illustrations are somewhat stylized and pleasantly reminiscent of Tim Burton's characters in The Nightmare before Christmas. The artist's palette is dark and rich in the beginning but lightens as Cherry's world expands to include both Olive and Angelo. This title will be particularly useful in classrooms and libraries—anywhere, in fact—where lonely children might need some help fitting in with others.—Joan Kindig, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA

K-Gr 2—While her parents are in Miami, Mia stays with her grandmother and three rather boring uncles. When her favorite uncle, Tommy, returns from a trip, the real fun begins. He likes people-watching, jumping on both feet, and coloring Mia's hair—all things that she adores—and she delights in his lavish attention. One day, when she arrives at Uncle Tommy's house, his new friend, Fergus, is already there. Fergus begins to go everywhere with them and Mia, who wants Uncle Tommy entirely to herself, embarks on a campaign to get rid of the interloper. She pretends that he doesn't exist, pours sugar on his shoes, and throws his towel into the pool. Still, Fergus does not go away. It is an impromptu soccer match that eventually cements the friendship between Mia and Fergus. The last page shows the two men sitting arm in arm with Mia between them and smiles all around. Mia's first-person narration conveys her emotions with childlike honesty. Lindenbaum's playful illustrations give the book a lightheartedness that will appeal to youngsters. While Mia is upset over Fergus intruding in her special relationship, her expressions let readers know that, in the end, she has acquired another friend.—Joan Kindig, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA

K-Gr 2—Jody's brother is autistic, and his world is governed by rules that everyone is expected to follow. "Josh doesn't like new people for the same reason he doesn't like new shoes….New people give Josh blisters in his head." When Aunt Tilda comes for a visit for the first time in years, Jody is left to show her how to navigate his world. She becomes tired of all the focus on her brother and she wants her aunt's attention. When they play a game, Josh keeps interrupting and tries to get Aunt Tilda to give him a special treat—without looking at her. The story ends with Jody's manipulation to get a special treat, too. It seems odd that the children's mother spends her time in the background, doing laundry and other chores, rather than helping to entertain her guest. Luchsinger provides some authentic insight into a family living with autism, particularly the effects on siblings. The simple watercolor illustrations are unremarkable, adding little energy to the slight story line and its sluggish pace. This book has limited child appeal.—Mary Hazelton, Elementary Schools in Warren & Waldoboro, ME

PreS-K—Jules the kitten is so full of love that he wants to hug the whole world. Starting with his best friends, he expands his endeavor to cover the neighborhood and the park, and then journeys to other countries to embrace animals both familiar and exotic. After he himself is hugged by a polar bear, he heads home to bed. Jules, together with the friends who appear briefly, will be familiar to fans of the syndicated comic strip "Mutts," and the energetic, sketchy illustrations seem even more expressive and dynamic in the midst of warm buff background pages. Trying to hug a blue whale or an elephant, this small kitten (with his big red nose) is irresistible without ever crossing the line into saccharine. Unfortunately, the same is not true of the text, which is very simple and focuses only on one idea: hugs. The narrative soon becomes repetitive, and the rhyming verses are sometimes forced, as in "Exploring the rain forest by foot and canoe,/Jules discovered a species brand-new." Still, this book, with its tiny size and small-scale illustrations, might be enjoyed by youngsters when shared one-on-one.—Marian Drabkin, Richmond Public Library, CA

K-Gr 3—In this simple celebration, youngsters from different countries enjoy a typical day and readers recognize the commonalities of childhood experiences. The endpapers identify the eight nations—U.S., Mexico, Mali, Saudi Arabia, Bolivia, France, India, and China—each highlighted on an individual globe map bordered with a colored frame. On the following spreads, illustrations depicting scenes from each locale appear with the same color border and position so that readers can follow a particular child throughout his or her day or compare how youngsters in all of the countries engage in similar pursuits. The gentle, uplifting narrative begins each phrase with "Thank you," as the children express their appreciation for special things and happy moments (e.g., the sun, a swing, kites, mothers, etc.). The rhyming text connects images from one spread to the next: "Thank you, grass, for softening my footsteps./I'm dancing with the breeze" is followed by "Thank you, breeze, for lifting up my kite wings/past treetops tall and proud." Attractive pencil-and-crayon drawings complement the story's style and tone. The realistic pictures will keep readers busy examining details of each child's lifestyle and homeland. The book will appeal to their curiosity about other youngsters and will enforce the concept of celebrating similarities and giving thanks for everyday things.—Margaret R. Tassia, Millersville University, PA

K-Gr 3—It is very windy in Iceland, and going for a walk can be challenging. So what did the ladies of one village decide? Why, that they would plant trees, in the village and in the countryside, to act as a windbreak. The chickens help, by providing an abundance of fertilizer. But once the sheep discover how tasty the little trees are, they eat them. The ladies replant, and build a fence around the village. The chickens fertilize, the sheep stay out with the cows, and all is well—until the sheep once more discover the tasty trees outside the fence. But thanks to the ladies (and to the chickens!), no matter how barren the fields may be, there are many beautiful trees in each village in Iceland. The illustrations are done in a faux-naif folk-art style in intensely colorful oils, perfect for depicting a village set among beautiful scenic hills near the ocean, and the cover, showing a mother pushing a baby carriage and three chickens being blown clear off the ground by wind, will invite any young reader to open the book and see what on earth is happening. Reminiscent of Carol Greene's The Old Ladies Who Liked Cats (HarperCollins, 1991; o.p.), this book will be useful not only for storytimes, but also in classroom units on ecology.—Marian Drabkin, Richmond Public Library, CA

PreS-Gr 1—Sylvie, a rabbit, and True, a giant water snake, share an apartment in the city. Their talents and interests are different, yet they're the best of friends. This gentle story of their relationship is told in four short, stand-alone chapters (perfect for bedtime). In one of them, True tries to cook. She puts the pot on the stove, but forgets all about it. Sylvie comes home to a smoke-filled apartment, so they go out for pizza. In another chapter, True proves her talents as a bowler, wearing size 21 shoes. Each selection quietly shows how the roommates give and take to make their friendship work. Their routine is comforting. Sylvie does the cooking, Tuesday is bowling night, and at bedtime, "Sylvie put on her colorful pajamas and brushed her teeth. True didn't wear pajamas because she was already quite colorful, but she did brush her teeth." The humor is low-key, but sure to bring on a smile. The tone is reflected in the bright watercolor and pen-and-ink drawings, which are perfectly suited for the quiet storytelling. The stories could be shared with a small group, but they are probably best read one-on-one or independently.—Carolyn Janssen, Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, OH

K-Gr 3—Velma is the youngest of the Gratch sisters and longs to be special in her own right. Her flame-red tresses are pulled into tight ponytails that mirror her moods. They droop in dismay, rise during moments of intellectual absorption, and are positively airborne when she's happy—a state that is challenging to achieve because of her birth order. Her eldest sister is gifted musically and the second one is athletic. Velma's niche eludes her until a science lesson on butterflies and a field trip to the conservatory (where a monarch perches on her finger and stays—for days) transform her world. Patterns in Madison's lyrical text are mirrored in Hawkes's sensitive but humorous compositions, a choice that creates aesthetic pleasure and propels the narrative with seamless, rhythmic buoyancy. From the colophon in the shape of a butterfly to the labeled caterpillars—and then mature winged creatures—on the front and back endpapers, respectively, it is clear that much attention has been paid to design. The book is a visual and verbal delight. While it is a perfect curricular tie-in, don't wait for an excuse to share this story of a gentle but plucky girl determined to discover her talents. Kids will relate to Velma's struggle and rejoice in her victory.—Wendy Lukehart, Washington DC Public Library

PreS-Gr 1—Several young penguins are enjoying a busy day walking, sledding, and swimming when they discover a distraught baby seal on an ice floe. The tyke explains, "My mama saw some fish swim by and dove into the sea./The ice floe we were resting on went drifting off with me!" By acting silly, jumping, and dancing, the penguins manage to cheer up the pup. There is a moment of tension when a scary underwater monster speeds toward them, but it turns out to be the mother seal, who thanks the helpful birds. The friends head home to end their long day in a cozy cuddle with their parents. The rhyming narrative gives the story a singsong quality. The text placement reflects the protagonists' activities as the lines wave and swirl through the illustrations. Parker-Rees's artwork is filled with fun-loving penguins, and the brightly colored cartoons add immensely to the story. Children will enjoy watching the animals' antics (the penguin wearing water wings is especially amusing). Fun, but additional.—Catherine Callegari, Gay-Kimball Library, Troy, NH

Gr 1–4—This beautifully composed story straddles two worlds—America and Islamic Indo-Pakistani culture. Eid-ul-Adha is a celebration of Prophet Abraham's sacrifice and trust in God. It is celebrated in a manner similar to Thanksgiving by offering lamb rather than turkey, which is distributed among the poor, the family, and friends. This benevolent distribution is a key part of this story. Aneesa is missing her parents, who have gone to Saudia Arabia to perform the Hajj pilgrimage, leaving her at home in America. Her grandmother distracts her with gifts, then cooks her favorite meal—lamb korma. Dressed in their elegant holiday clothing, Aneesa and Nonni visit the mosque. Aneesa notices two sisters in ragged clothing who are refugees from a war-torn country. Feeling concern for them, she puts together a plan with Nonni's help. This is a heartwarming tale of a child's generosity, and Jacobsen's illustrations flesh out the warmth and tenderness of the characters' interaction. This is a welcome contribution, giving much-needed visibility to a celebration observed by over ten million people in North America. A glossary explains the Arabic and Urdu terms.—Fawzia Gilani-Williams, Oberlin Public Library, OH

PreS-Gr 1—In a humorous role-reversal tale, Sally just wants to get a good night's sleep before going to school, but her parents try to coax her into staying up with them. To the small, yet responsible raccoon, however, all of their enticements, such as baking cookies, playing games, or dancing in the backyard, are not sufficient. While her folks are occupied with ways to keep her awake, she's busy brushing her teeth, bathing, and washing her hair, and is forced to be adamant: "'ENOUGH!' I cried out./'You'll just have to go./I love you a lot,/But my answer is no.'" That's when her energetic parents finally give in to their daughter's wishes and bid her "Good night." The delicately colored illustrations are filled with curves and circles, and round, plump raccoons that are pleasing to the eye. Children will be tickled with this story, told in rhyming couplets, of a resolute and unwavering child determined to go to bed at a reasonable hour.—Maryann H. Owen, Racine Public Library, WI

K-Gr 2—This pleasant tale of neighborhood, friendship, and creative problem-solving features the child who first appeared in A Bird about to Sing (Houghton, 2003). When Natalie leaves Chirpie's cage door open, the blue-and-white bird flies to a tree and won't come down. A delightful response to the crisis begins when the poets arrive: "You need not worry. Haven't you heard?/There are oodles of ways to lure a bird," Priyanka announces. Each writer has a creative, but unsuccessful, solution—stand like a statue, wiggle like a worm, sing like a bird, be patient and wait for her to become homesick-but Monica urges everyone to imagine "If I were Chirpie,/fancy and free,/what beauty would beckon me/down from the tree?" The answer is a garden, which this wonderful cast of multicultural characters creates in the middle of a big city neighborhood, attracting not only Chirpie, but many other birds as well. Montenegro's naive gouache illustrations tell the story visually, encouraging young children to retell it in their own words.—Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI

PreS-K—Panda worries that his mother will not be able to survive the day without his help, but she assures him that she will be all right as she shepherds him through his morning routine and walks him to school. His teacher, a bespectacled kangaroo, knows how to soothe a homesick child. When Panda finds a note from his mother and a photograph in his lunch box, he realizes she is with him, after all. The gentle, comforting feeling of the text is reinforced with pictures of the old-fashioned wood stove and home-baked bread in Panda's kitchen and the traditional blackboard in the classroom of the red brick schoolhouse. The large black print and uncluttered design make the book appropriate for easy-reader or picture-book collections.—Martha Simpson, Stratford Library Association, CT

K-Gr 3—As this story opens, a smiling postal carrier hands an envelope to Mama. It is a special-delivery letter addressed to her daughter, Eubie. Mama rings the dinner bell and Papa, Jacob, and Eubie come running back to the house. The girl reads the letter aloud. She has been accepted to college and is being offered a four-year merit scholarship. The one problem is that the family will have to pay three thousand dollars toward room and board. This, then, is the heart of the story, as everyone comes up with a way to raise money to make Eubie's dream a reality. Lily, the youngest member and the narrator, sets up an iced-tea stand (no one comes by) and tries to start a pet-sitting business, but nothing seems to work, and she grows discouraged. One day, a neighbor tells Mama that she and her husband will be leaving town for two weeks, and she is worried that her mother will be lonely. This provides the perfect opportunity for Lily to help out and also make some money. Lewis's tender watercolors capture Lily's determination and frustration as well as the essence of the hopes and dreams of a close-knit African-American family.—Mary N. Oluonye, Shaker Heights Public Library, OH

PreS-K—In a stunning portrayal of predator and prey, a screech owl hunts at twilight to feed her three babies. Oliver's signature linocuts enhanced with paint and pencils will project for a group and will intrigue individual viewers who can look for nocturnal creatures that use disguise or camouflage to hide among the tall grasses, craggy tree bark, and mottled rocks. The swooping owl just misses several targets before she catches a giant luna moth, and then, "with feathers pulled tight and ear tufts high," hides herself to escape a great horned owl. Oliver's elegant text is highly descriptive and action packed. Early-literacy preschool programs will find the writing techniques supportive of their goals, and effortlessly so, because an expert use of synonyms will promote vocabulary building. To help teachers and parents, a simple dialogic-reading opportunity is supported by additional scientific explanations of camouflage and disguise at the end, and for visual learners, a seek-and-find game map will add some fun. Pair this with Martin Waddell's luminous Owl Babies (Candlewick, 1996) for a terrific preschool storytime.—Nancy Call, Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos, CA

Gr 2–4—Fred and Anthony, both 10, would prefer to spend their days watching cheesy monster movies while scarfing Pez and Chex Mix. Unfortunately, little matters like school projects interfere. The friends figure they can pay someone to do their homework, if they can just raise the cash. In Escape, the boys go into business "helping old people with stuff." Unfortunately, their first customer is weird dentist Dr. Nietsneknarf, who needs a couple of boy-brains to animate his world-destroying monster. In the second book, Fred and Anthony set up as professional ghost-busters, only to run into an obsessively messy slime creature and his Netherworld neighbor, a neat-freak zombie with ambitions to supersanitize the world—starting with our heroes. The heavily illustrated design features exaggerated black-and-white cartoon illustrations, often in comic-book-style panels, dialogue balloons, and wildly varying text fonts. Cameo appearances by famous fiends from Dracula to the Bride of Frankenstein are scattered through the stories. There is playground-level body humor of the "doggie doo" and "barf breath" variety, as well as lots of tongue-in-cheek horror references. More silly than scary, these books are an additional choice for transition readers, especially boys, who are just beyond Dav Pilkey's "Captain Underpants" series (Scholastic).—Elaine E. Knight, Lincoln Elementary Schools, IL

K-Gr 3—Youngsters will enjoy this funny follow-up to Chicks and Salsa (Bloomsbury, 2005). The animals on Nuthatcher Farm are getting set to watch the big football game: "The ducks dished up their famous quackamole. The pigs piled a platter knee-keep with nachos. And the horses heisted Farmer Nuthatcher's TV." But that isn't enough for the rooster, who has "a hankering for a game-time snack with plenty of kick" and finds a recipe for buffalo wings. Off-beat humor pulls this zany story along as the rooster heads west in search of the missing ingredient, finds a herd of buffalo only to ascertain that it is "completely wing-free," and discovers, to his horror, that what he really needs are chicken wings. The resolution is silly but satisfying. The illustrations are bold, colorful, and hilarious, featuring animated expressions and amusing situations. The spreads are peppered with humorous visual details. Recipes for Halftime Jalapeño Hush Puppies and Buffalo-Free Buffalo Wings are appended along with the disclaimer: "No chickens, buffalo, or puppies were harmed in the making of this book." A robust romp, generously spiced with child appeal.—Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI

K-Gr 2—This story about basketball-playing piggies doubles as a cautionary tale for sports-obsessed parents. Twins Brendan and Belinda Porker are naturals at the sport, and instant stars of the Saturday afternoon All-Hoops Parents and Kids League. Dad constantly has them practicing and going over plays, encouraging them to become superstars "like Mike." When the opportunity arises, he signs them up for the Jump Shot Juniors, and their days are filled with even more basketball. One snow-filled Saturday, when Dad wants to tear the kids away from their snowman to get to the gym, they burst into tears. "Don't you want to be superstars? Don't you want to be like Mike?" Mr. Porker asks sadly. "Well—maybe we'll be superstars someday," answers Brendan. But not yet, adds Belinda. Dad wisely listens when his children tell him they have had too much of a good thing, and even spends the rest of the day sledding with them. Although the title is somewhat misleading, Rockwell's message is a good one. Meisel's action pictures are uncluttered and kid-friendly, and the pigs' facial expressions capture their glad and sad moods perfectly. An enjoyable read for all sports-minded kids, with a reminder that games are supposed to be fun, for both the kids and their parents.—Martha Simpson, Stratford Library Association, CT

K-Gr 3—The Siamese kitten returns in another rip-roaring adventure. This time, Skippyjon, who wants to be a famous paleontologist, digs up bones buried by Mrs. Dolly Doohiggy's dog, Darwin, and glues them to his model dinosaur. When his mother warns him to take the bones back before Darwin awakens, the obstinate, pouncing, bouncing Skippyjon instead puts on his cape and mask, transforming himself into Skippito Friskito, a Chihuahua. Searching for more dinosaurs, Skippito enters his closet, which transports him to a jungle. There, the action builds. Skippito reunites with Los Chimichangos, his old canine amigos. Hearing an earthquake, the friends panic; peeping through bushes, they see rowdy dinosaurs of all sizes and types. Using his pickle breath and courage, Skippito saves his pals from harm. Schachner's characters retain their winning personalities. The peppy acrylic and pen-and-ink artwork reflects the playfulness and drama of the text and adds plenty of action and suspense. Many Spanish terms are smoothly integrated into the snappy dialogue. Schachner's energetic reading on the accompanying CD includes the use of different character voices. The recording opens and closes with upbeat music, and orchestral drumbeats accentuate the action in the story. This lively romp is fun for one-on-one sharing or reading aloud.—Lynn K. Vanca, Akron-Summit County Public Library, Richfield, OH

PreS-Gr 1—A large, brown bear has hair everywhere except for his nose. As the seasons change, readers witness his bold moves, with the hairless appendage leading the way. He dives into the cool water for salmon, pokes his nose into buzzing beehives, and ferrets out acorns in spite of scolding squirrels. It is when winter comes, and naptime nears, that the animal must find a way to cover up his bare nose. Schertle makes frequent use of interior rhymes and alliteration to move the action along, but there are a few awkward moments that interrupt the flow. So while Phelan's soft, muted close-ups, rendered in strong outlines with pastel and pencil, lend themselves to sharing with a group, readers will have to practice several times to achieve an effective delivery. It is worth the effort, however, to follow this droll creature through the year. The jolt of cobalt on the spread depicting the bear lolling in a blueberry patch provides a glorious contrast to the cream-colored background in a particularly delightful composition. Children will chuckle when the animal scratches his "bear behind" on a tree trunk before settling down for the winter. A fresh selection for storytimes on bears, hair, or hibernation.—Wendy Lukehart, Washington DC Public Library

PreS-Gr 3—Long ago in China, people gathered into tribes protected by animal spirits. Because they fought so often in the name of these spirits, their children decided to create an animal that would combine the attributes of many creatures and protect all the people, no matter what tribe. They called their creation, "which could fly in the air, swim in the ocean, and walk on land," a dragon, and it inspired their parents to make peace. No source is given for this sweet, optimistic "legend" told in English and Chinese, though it feels like a modern fable concocted as a vehicle for striking visual effects. Tall and narrow in shape, the book is illustrated with what appear to be rough-hewn woodcuts executed in black and bright primary colors. Ever-handsome page design varies throughout, setting the pace for the story. Evoking Chinese scroll painting, elegant calligraphy runs down the side of every spread, and seals designed by the calligrapher appear where appropriate. Libraries with a need for stories told in English and Chinese may want to consider this title, as will collections that emphasize picture-book art.—Margaret A. Chang, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, North Adams

K-Gr 2—In this third collection of stories about the cowgirl and her horse, school begins. When Kate leaves on the bus, Cocoa follows it like Mary's little lamb, much to the other children's enjoyment and Kate's embarrassment. The animal is lonely and heartsick when she brings a child home but soon realizes they both have made a new friend. When Kate's attention turns to homework, Cocoa helps by posing for a picture in one story and, in another, demonstrating facts about horses for her report. Lewin's breezy, cartoon style features strong black lines and watercolor against mostly white backgrounds. Each story opens on a spread, and both characters have wonderfully expressive faces. Cocoa seems like a real horse because his movements are just right—whether galloping back home ("ta-dum ta-dum ta-dum"), rolling on his back, or shaking his long, caramel-colored mane. As the friendship between these two shines through in each story, emerging readers will make a place in their own hearts for this pair.—Mary Jean Smith, Southside Elementary School, Lebanon, TN

Gr 2–5—Maybelle is a lone cockroach living in the pristine Peabody household. She has a cozy home beneath the refrigerator and a faithful friend, Henry the Flea, who is a constant voice of reason when she tests the limits of her small world. Rhyming rules like "never meet with human feet" and "when it's light, stay out of sight" have kept Maybelle safe thus far, but she is tired of eating fallen crumbs and longs for food that hasn't touched the floor. The moment she picks to head to the table, though, happens to come during a dinner party with Very Important Guests. A splash into the soup starts her on a string of adventures, including a run-in with the family cat (where Henry "lived and dined") and a first-ever vacation (via Mrs. Peabody's suitcase) at a swanky hotel with foil-wrapped chocolates on the pillows—and room service. With its short chapters and simple dialogue, this story of friendship and wishful dreaming will engage readers. Although the voices help to define the characters, the wonderfully energetic illustrations bring them to life. Recommend this to reluctant readers who might have a penchant for the buggy side of life or those who want more from their world, no matter how young they are.—Cheryl Ashton, Amherst Public Library, OH

K-Gr 2—Spinelli's sweet if a bit old-fashioned story follows the big passion of a little cat who loves to ice skate. Callie practices day and night and often daydreams about skating when she is doing other things. She works hard, unable to identify the "melting sweetness" she feels every time she hits the ice. Her friends convince her to sign up for a contest, telling her she would be a "banana" if she refused to enter. Callie concedes, and begins to focus her efforts on winning. The book ends with her performance in the event (she skates well but does not win) and her rather mature revelation that the happy feelings she gets from doing what she loves are more important than any prize. Kennedy's charmingly personified animals and icy landscapes pair nicely with the warmhearted wintertime story line. This would be an ideal read-aloud for Brownie troops or other all-girl activity groups as the subjects addressed tend to be feminized. Not a necessity, but a solid additional purchase.—Kristen Frey, Rocky River Public Library, OH

K-Gr 1—Sadie, feline heroine of the skies, is determined to deliver the mail though a storm threatens to ground her plane. Strom peppers the narrative with memorable rhymes such as, "No wind, No rain, No cold or flu,/Can stop the Air Mail getting through!" Children will be fascinated by the courage of this determined pilot. They will pore over the antique-appearing illustrations that glow in an orangish-red palette with rusty browns and golden yellows. One action-packed scene vividly shows Sadie's red plane up against the gray cold and windy sky near the appropriately named Knuckle Peak. Strom has even labeled part of the aircraft in one view for curious-minded readers who want to know the rudder from the aileron. This book is best used for one-on-one reading in order for children to appreciate the many small details and the array of animals at HQ who support Sadie in her mission.—Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA

PreS-K—Little Mole poses the titular question and his papa suggests that he go find out. His friends answer his question in terms of their own worlds, gradually expanding the perspective from the little spider's answer, "My web is the world," to the great whale's reply, "I have swum in this ocean all my life, and I have never seen the end." Riding on the leviathan's back, Little Mole sees a great deal of the world and returns home to his own molehill, telling his papa that the world is "as big as you want it to be," as he snuggles down to sleep. The oversize pictures display large, bold animals, etc., in the style of Eric Carle or Leo Lionni, set against backgrounds of bright color and textured design. Although the story is slight, the book is handsomely produced and the large format makes it definitely a candidate for storytime.—Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA

PreS-K—Observing the wide Cheshire grin from the front cover, readers are soon made aware that Fat Cat is getting ready to sit down. It takes only one page for them to realize that what is to come is utmost absurdity—will Fat Cat sit on a cow, a chicken, or a pig? Finally, mouse comes up with a grand idea to solve the current problem. But wait—now it is lunchtime! What will Fat Cat eat? This book could be classified as an easy reader for those who are just beginning to recognize words that sound alike and are repeated through the text, because picture clues are abundant. Yet toddlers can equally enjoy the story because of the simple yet direct question posed in the title. The cartoon illustrations are bright, basic, and expressive, with a bold outline for each character, allowing the pages to be seen by a group at storytime. The well-paced, laugh-out-loud humor ensures that this story can be enjoyed again and again.—Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA

PreS-K—While the conceit behind this book is quite clever, the presentation will be puzzling to young children and won't be of interest to those who are old enough to "get it." Watt begins writing a story about a mouse that lives in the country. However, her cat, Chester, wants the story to be about him, so he takes a red marker in paw and begins to write his own tale in addition to, and sometimes instead of, the author's. The book needs to be read in two voices (the author's and the cat's) in order to make sense to young listeners; but even then, there is not enough plot to garner their interest, and the concept will require too much explanation. The "story" is merely about the pair's test of wills. Charming pencil and watercolor illustrations, assembled digitally, depict Chester as a pudgy tabby and the mouse as tiny and gray. The chances of this book being requested more than once are remote.—Maryann H. Owen, Racine Public Library, WI

Gr 1–5—This title introduces the Impressionist painter and his work through a family anecdote. The book opens at a gallery where the artist's grown son and his cousin overhear a woman remark, "What a pretty girl" in front of the painting Jean Renoir Sewing. The indignant subject corrects her mistake and begins to reminisce about his childhood, particularly his father's refusal to let him cut his hair. For years, Jean suffered the taunts of other boys and begged to have his long, golden locks clipped, but Renoir insisted he wait until he was 10. Happily, after the birth of a baby brother when the boy was seven, his father relented. The whole family attended the visit to the barber—both mother and cousin in tears. Jean also remembers how his cousin got him to pose by reading him fairy tales or, in the case of the aforementioned painting, by suggesting he sew a coat for his toy tin camel. In the painting, the boy wears a pink smocked dress with a large bow in his hair. Children may wonder why a father would dress his son like a girl and be so unsympathetic to his feelings, despite Cézanne's explanation, "…he likes to paint the play of light in your shiny, golden hair." Interjected comments about the Impressionist movement and Renoir's work seem out of place and disrupt the telling of the story. The stylized, garish illustrations depict French country life, but overpower the reproductions of Renoir's work.—Barbara Auerbach, New York City Public Schools

PreS-Gr 2—An adventure in which the preternatural curiosity of cats is celebrated with sly wit in both words and pictures. Again and again, Cat finds that his owner has left openings of all kinds accessible to him: a kitchen window, a trash can, a coat closet, a bedroom door, an art studio. Each destination offers the inquisitive feline maximum possibility for messy mischief. The woman of the house follows behind Cat, chasing his trail of garbage, coat scarves, dressing-table detritus, and smeared paint. The text is patterned and repetitive, containing many action and onomatopoeic words to delight teachers. It also offers opportunities for crowd-pleasing participatory reading aloud at storytime. McCully's loose-lined, energetic watercolor illustrations are well suited to the wayward protagonist and his fractious escapades. Cat's body is a blur of movement, and his face a study in startled surprise. At the chase's pleasant conclusion, the woman catches Cat, who, this time, jumps into her arms. After all, his paint-spattered footprints are in the shape of a heart. Pair this tale with one about another inquisitive feline, Kevin Henkes's Kitten's First Full Moon (HarperCollins, 2004).—Kate McClelland, Perrot Memorial Library, Old Greenwich, CT

PreS—The young bunny introduced in Overboard! (Harcourt, 2006) and his mouse friend fill a rainy day with lively antics. The rhythmic cadence bumps along joyfully as the pair have pillow fights, get artistic with Mama's makeup, play hide-and-seek, slip around on stocking feet, and make a bunny chain with Papa's newspaper. The spirited illustrations dance across each spread highlighting the action. The vigorous colors jump off the page, much like bunny and the mouse. A winning choice for storytimes.—Linda M. Kenton, San Rafael Public Library, CA

PreS-Gr 2—In this fast-paced and wild hockey championship, the carnivores in red jerseys (Meat-Eaters) take on the herbivores in green (Veggiesaurs). Clever rhyming couplets keep the game lively and slip in facts about dinosaurs ("Socks and jerseys keep them warm—/cold-blooded beasts in uniform") and the sport of hockey ("Safety pads protect their bones./Some have helmets of their own"). The players' names are highlighted in the appropriate team color throughout the text, enabling everyone to keep track while learning which species eat meat and which eat plants. The digitally rendered illustrations, featuring sculpted, wide-eyed creatures, lack polish but do bring out the chaotic spirit of the match. They also accentuate funny details, including a frenzied pileup of fans doing the wave. Just like in a real hockey game (or real dinosaur gathering), aggression takes over at times. However, the dodo bird makes an excellent referee and breaks things up right away: "Stego fumes inside the booth,/as Raptor searches for his tooth." The start of soccer season on the final page hints heavily at a sequel. An amusing pairing of a sporting event and prehistoric beasts.—Julie Roach, Cambridge Public Library, MA

K-Gr 3—In this second chapter book about best friends Mouse and Mole, Mole is excited because Minkus the Magnificent is coming to town. The show is marvelous at first, but disappointing in the end when a table collapses and the audience realizes that the magic is really trickery. He is depressed: "There is NO such thing as magic!" Then Mouse summons him to a midnight show featuring fireflies, mimosa plants, and the full moon. Reassured that magic is all around, he falls asleep beneath the moon and stars, next to her. Yee portrays Mole's vulnerability and Mouse's pragmatism with great sensitivity and humor (and a refreshing reversal of traditional gender roles). The attractive layouts interweave small, bright charcoal-and-gouache illustrations with the clear, large type of the text. In one scene, Mouse is shown mulling over what to wear: a dress with yellow polka dots on purple, or one with red-and-white stripes, or another with a moon-and-stars motif. Throughout, Mole looks comfortable in his chartreuse shirt and orange pants. These two are a lovely addition to the pantheon of easy-reader pals.—Rachael Vilmar, Eastern Shore Regional Library, GA

Gr 2–5—Filled with facts and activities, this book immerses readers in seasonal details in order to understand winter's mysteries. Pages of basic information are interspersed with "Wow" facts, black-and-white cartoon illustrations, and jokes. Vocabulary is introduced in "Words 2 Know" sections and in a glossary. Curious readers will gain a new level of understanding about winter after reading, laughing at, and experimenting with this book.—Christine Markley, Washington Elementary School, Barto, PA

Gr 1–2—This easy reader explains how the massive sculpture came to be. Numerous names make the book more difficult to read than other titles in the series. Students are told why each president was selected by Gutzon Borglum for his carving, and there are interesting details about the size of the monument, such as the fact that each of Washington's eyes is 11 feet wide. The colorful illustrations vary in size and for the most part enhance the text. Back matter includes a page of fascinating facts, at a higher reading level.—Colleen D. Bocka, Nathaniel Rochester Community School, Rochester, NY

Gr 3–4—These books provide cursory introductions to four extreme habitats. The author has selected examples that reflect the wide range of climates, locations, and inhabitants. Deserts, for example, includes people from Africa, Australia, China, and the United States. The final chapter of each book covers some of the problems (desertification, pollution, global warming) that result when people live in these fragile environments. Steps that have been taken to resolve the environmental problems are included. These books may be of use in large collections or where there is a need in the curriculum. A map locates the landform or environment around the world and half-page captioned photos appear on most pages.—Carol S. Surges, McKinley Elementary School, Wauwatosa, WI

PreS-Gr 1—Ryan is a small boy with an increasingly large problem—fear of pain as he uses the potty has created both a mental and physical block. Understanding Dr. Gold eases the child's worries by telling him a story about Bill, a coyote who never cleans up after himself. Relating the idea of a house bulging with trash to Ryan's predicament allows the physician to enlist the boy to become the "boss" of his body, much as Bill becomes the boss of cleaning up his house. A pastel palette of watercolor and ink cartoons illustrates the dinosaur-loving child and his family. Simple, labeled diagrams depict the pathway of food through the intestines and into the toilet. Written by a pediatrician, the fictionalized text creates a positive partnership between children, parents, and physicians to practice healthy eating and digestive habits. A listing of foods and their impact upon digestion, a detailed program for children suffering from constipation, and a note to parents are appended. Although not a necessity for libraries, this book would be welcomed by parents who face a similar situation or in doctors' waiting rooms.—Mary Elam, Forman Elementary School, Plano, TX

Gr 1–4—These basic introductions discuss the land, wildlife, history, daily life, economy, food, and holidays of the featured nation in clear language. Large, high-quality photos appear on each chapter spread. Appendixes include general facts, famous people, lyrics to the national song, a native legend, and a few words in English and the country's language and their pronunciation. A typo in Russia lists the country's area as 17 million square miles rather than kilometers. Government information is limited, and the breakup of the former Soviet Union isn't mentioned. Readers looking for a time line or anything but the most basic historical overview will have to consult other sources. A publisher's Web site provides some additional links, but it requires readers to locate and enter the book's ISBN before proceeding. These titles provide serviceable overviews for those students not yet ready for the "Enchantment of the World" series (Children's Press), but libraries that already own the comparable but more comprehensive "Countries of the World" series (National Geographic) should consider them supplemental purchases.—Jayne Damron, Farmington Community Library, MI

K-Gr 3—Isadora relocates the setting of this story to the court of an African kingdom, and the result is a delightfully original version of the traditional tale. Double-page collage illustrations, crafted using oil paints, printed paper, and palette paper, feature a variety of African art and cultural motifs. The lovely princesses, whose skin tones range from light brown to deep ebony, are arrayed in a colorful range of traditional folk costumes, jewelry, and hairstyles. Beginning with the stunning cover, featuring exuberant dancing couples and huge white letters placed against a dramatic black background, Isadora's art evokes an air of high-spirited romance. Throughout, dramatic collages move the story forward at a lively pace. The dance scenes in particular, elegantly composed and detailed, come alive with swirls of movement. With her innovative re-imagining and masterful art, Isadora has created a memorable version of this tale that complements other fine retellings, such as those by Errol Le Cain (Puffin, 1981) and Jane Ray (Dutton, 1996), and extends the appeal of this timeless tale to a new audience of readers.—Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA

Gr 3–4—These titles summarize key efforts of committed biologists, environmentalists, zoologists, and other scientists to take these animals off the endangered list. The books are well organized and have an easy style and an accessible vocabulary and text size, leading readers smoothly from one concept to the next. Though Bison uses more archival photos than the other titles, all of them include color photographs. Why the animals were previously endangered (focusing on how hunting, habitat loss, or pollution destroyed them) and what professionals did to save them are explained. Simple pre- and post-endangered-status maps show the animals' ranges. Related endangered species outside the United States are mentioned. Must-haves for libraries that need books on this topic.—Nancy Call, Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos, CA

Gr 2–4—Like the previous books in the series, this one utilizes illustrations of funky-looking felines and colored text to illustrate a part of speech. All of the adjectives are printed in different colors so that young readers can identify them on their own. The language is rhythmic and rollicking: "Adjectives tell us when someone is serious, fearless or frightened or even delirious." This book could be used as a read-aloud in language units—the humor is entertaining enough to invite a few laughs from the students. The illustrations are colorful, silly, and bright. While Lynne Truss's Eats, Shoots and Leaves (2006) and Patricia T. O'Conner's Woe Is I, Jr. (2007, both Putnam) are fun for budding grammarians, Cleary's book is better designed for children who are just beginning to learn about the English language