(2) K-3 Ready-to-Read series. A squid and friends—a turtle, pufferfish, and crab—snag some clothes hanging off the side of a small boat in this kooky, distinctive book for early readers. The buoyant text relies on one-syllable words and a poetic use of rhythm, rhyme, and repetition in phrases and short sentences that have a Seussian cadence. "Four friends, one boat. Two socks, one coat." Pages awash in dappled shades of turquoise, aqua, peach, and raspberry reflect the playful mood as the wide-eyed ocean creatures try on clothes and bicker over who gets the flip-flops. Geisel honoree Windness (for Worm and Caterpillar Are Friends) seamlessly incorporates speech bubbles into the text, adding a layer of complexity and interest while also keeping the low-stakes plot sashaying along. When Squid gets upset, disaster strikes: "I inked!" The friends have just figured out how to work the ink stains into their evolving sense of style when along comes the kid from the boat: "Give my clothes back!" Negotiations ensue, a pair of underwear's early appearance pays off, and the sea creatures put on a parade. A coda with the kid sporting a marine-modified outfit ties the bow on this amusing offering.

Reviewer: Adrienne L. Pettinelli | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2025

(3) K-3 Ready-to-Read series. This genial beginning reader about dinosaurs racing has the rhythm and rhyme of a chant: "Rolling reptiles, in your places! Time to start the Dino Races!" Illustrations in jewel tones with a sponge-painted look and minimal lines depict helmeted dinosaurs riding a unicycle, a tricycle, roller skates, and a skateboard through a racecourse, complete with spectators and a concession stand. (Brontosaurus gets off to a late start, being busy "munching, ­crunching at the cart.") There are ten to fifteen words on some spreads, many of them challenging, particularly the dinosaur names. ­Windness sticks with dinos that are familiar parts of the childhood lexicon, though, and the cadence, illustrations, and straightforward action provide encouraging nudges in the right direction. A supportive choice for children who are building stronger phonics skills.

Reviewer: Adrienne L. Pettinelli | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2025