(3) K-3 Illustrated by Valeri Gorbachev. In previous books, pig Rufus has been to school and aboard a pirate ship; now he's ready for a new frontier: space. Unfortunately, the space center has a no-pigs policy ("pigs pester the pilot," etc.). Rufus's ability to read overturns that policy--and is part of the Rufus books' charm. Gorbachev's ink and watercolor illustrations make Mars look as inviting as a rumpus room.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Valeri Gorbachev. The pig star of Rufus Goes to School decides to be a pirate over summer vacation. He fails to impress real pirates with pirate shtick, but his literacy wins them over: only Rufus can read the treasure map. Rufus is an appealingly tenacious little scamp, and Gorbachev makes comically clear that the Scurvy Dog's crew couldn't shiver a single timber.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Valeri Gorbachev. Piglet Rufus wants to attend school, but he's sent away. Not until Rufus shows the principal his favorite book and an earnest desire to read, does Principal Lipid change his mind. Gorbachev's ink hatching over soft watercolor adds texture to the art, and the focus on Rufus's small stature and fervent facial expressions will likely melt hearts.

Reviewer: Shara Hardeson