(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Jeremy Tugeau. This guide for beginning writers explains the basic structure and story elements of a variety of genres including short stories, screenplays, and humorous essays. The book overreaches its scope, and the modest prose and amateurish black-and-white illustrations lack energy or enthusiasm. A chapter on marketing lists online publishers and e-zines that are particularly receptive to children's writing. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Katy Keck Arnsteen. This informative introduction to journalism will be helpful for both classroom assignments and the young newspaper person. The authors discuss fact gathering and research; writing news articles, feature stories, and op-ed pieces; advertising; layout; and printing and distribution. The color artwork is dull, but doesn't detract from the whole. Ind.

Reviewer: Cyrisse Jaffee

(3) YA Providing step-by-step instructions for opening a bank account, handling credit cards, buying a car, and setting a budget, this guide emphasizes the importance of a bit of mathematical know-how in daily life. "Math-phobic" readers will appreciate the text's casual tone, jargon definitions, and clear examples. Chapters also include information on shopping wisely, paying for college, investing in stocks, and renting an apartment. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.