(4) K-3 Illustrated by Margeaux Lucas. Abby wants to run in the big race at the town fair. Although others encourage her to enter the pie-eating contest instead, she continues to train, monitoring and treating her asthma with her doctor's help, and wins the race. Though the text is message-y, its lessons about determination and self-confidence are inspiring. Cheerful illustrations show Abby hard at work.

Reviewer: Bridget McCaffrey

(4) 4-6 Macey, nicknamed Niner because she's missing a thumb, feels out of place in her adoptive family. While investigating a neighborhood mystery, Macey realizes everyone has secrets--and imperfect families. The novel deftly deals with adoption, race, and abandonment through a plot that will keep readers guessing (though the problem would have been solved up-front if Macey had just told an adult).

Reviewer: Katrina Hedeen

(4) 4-6 Lindy lives in the only rundown house in a ritzy suburb and concocts elaborate lies to hide the fact from her classmates. She also has a dark secret, which she can forget only when playing softball. The truth about her past (her baby sister drowned) is revealed at an agonizing pace; the resolution, by contrast, seems abrupt. Lindy is presented realistically, character flaws and all.

Reviewer: Norah Piehl