(1) K-3 Illustrated by Molly Bang. The small, determined heroine (Little Rat Sets Sail; Little Rat Rides) takes on a new challenge: violin lessons. Bang-Campbell's text is divided into eight short chapters. Her matter-of-fact tone allows flashes of humor to shine even more brightly. Bang's deep jewel-tone colors provide a rich counterpart to the homely settings, and her spot-on visual representation of music is worth special note.

Reviewer: Lolly Robinson | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2007

(2) K-3 Illustrated by Molly Bang. Skittish Little Rat has made progress since her last easy-reader outing (Little Rat Sets Sail), when her parents dragged her to sailing lessons; this time, horseback-riding lessons are her own idea. The illustrations are gorgeous and saturated with color, conveying the strong appeal of horses. The writing is solid, and the voice, funny and original.

Reviewer: Jennifer M. Brabander | Horn Book Magazine Issue: May, 2004

(1) K-3 Illustrated by Molly Bang. Little Rat faces a summer of sailing lessons despite being afraid of the water. Things get off to a bad start, but a compassionate instructor helps, and by the end she has learned skills, taken risks, and even enjoyed herself. The author captures the joys of sailing while presenting it from the point of view of a reluctant participant: no small feat. The illustrations are both gorgeous and functional.

Reviewer: Martha V. Parravano | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2002