(3) K-3 Illustrated by Mary GrandPré. Take one part love story, add fantasy elements, and mix with a parable about making time for happiness. Schmuel has been pushed to "hurry up" throughout his life. He becomes a skilled tailor but never has a moment for himself--until the clock goes "Tickety-tock tick!" stopping time for the harried man. Rhyming text and textured illustrations capture the story's magic.

Reviewer: Amy Kellman

(4) 4-6 After his parents' divorce, Evan is forced to move from Manhattan to the small town of Appleton, Indiana. As he tries to fit in with his mostly-Christian classmates--right before his bar mitzvah--he discovers who his true friends are. Though the themes (friendship, self-awareness, manhood) are run-of-the-mill, the appealing cast of quirky characters will keep readers interested.

Reviewer: Aimee Chevrette Bear