(3) K-3 This catchy title relates Ruth Wakefield's successful career as a baker and restaurateur as well as the lore surrounding how exactly her invention of the chocolate chip cookie came about; the three speculated versions of the cookies' creation make for an interesting tale. Ford's bright, cartoony illustrations' vintage aesthetic brings out the Depression-era setting. An author's note and the original recipe are appended. Bib.

Reviewer: Christina Dorr

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Gilbert Ford. Photographs by Greg Endries. In 1943, naval engineer Richard James brought home a walking torsion spring. With some entrepreneurial risk-taking and clever marketing, he and his wife, Betty, transformed his discovery into a toy sensation, the Slinky. Engaging illustrations--photographed dioramas posing digital art with found objects--resemble period advertisements, while the text effectively distills the excitement of the enterprising invention for young audiences. Bib.

Reviewer: Dorrie Karlin

(4) K-3 Though able to fly, a much bigger, louder, featherless jet doesn't fit in with a flock of doves. ("'You are not one of us,' they squawked.") But when an early frost grounds the birds, they accept a ride from the airplane. The change-of-heart ending is predictable, but the retro visuals of an airplane trying to roost alongside the doves will get some laughs.

Reviewer: Rebecca Reed Whidden