(3) K-3 Illustrated by Thomas F. Yezerski. Pinch gets an unexpected delivery: a couch he did not order, a couch that does not fit into his house and does not match his curtains. Dash tries to help Pinch find the right spot to put the couch. This funny animal-buddy story is made lively with clever word play. The sprightly pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations match the text's companionable tone.

Reviewer: Kari Allen

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Thomas F. Yezerski. Pinch, who looks as if he hasn't missed many meals, wants soup, but he's too lazy to make it. His svelte next-door neighbor Dash is making "skinny soup…soup with not much in it." Friendship and collaboration are seasoned with a touch of spicy humor in this early-reader buddy book. The sprightly pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations match the text's companionable tone.

Reviewer: Susan Halperin

(3) 4-6 Genetically modified Rat (Space Station Rat), assisted by human Jeff, continues her quest for freedom. Rat's perspective and developing view of friendship are immediate and clear, and a new character, a robot named LB, adds complexity to the story. Readers will enjoy this quick-moving adventure set aboard a space station, with robotic dangers and surprising alliances.

Reviewer: Beth L. Meister

(4) 4-6 Stewart has secrets in his past--many of which have been suppressed in his memory--and one goal: to become a space pilot like his dead mother. When an old pilot invites him to the moon, Stewart jumps at the chance. Stewart's voice is sharp, but the story itself lacks excitement and the many coincidences will irritate savvy sci-fi fans.

Reviewer: Becky Levine

(3) 4-6 Lab-escapee Rat finds herself on a space station. Rat's genetic enhancements allow her to learn about her new home and befriend twelve-year-old human Jeff. When Rat's presence is discovered, it's up to Jeff to save her and perhaps the station itself. Rat's perspective is convincing (though the science is vague) in this appealing introduction to science fiction.

Reviewer: Beth L. Meister