(2) K-3 Illustrated by Stacey Dressen McQueen. Dalia teaches her little brother, Yossi, about tzedakah, the Jewish custom of collecting money or otherwise supporting those in need. While tagging along on some special errands, Yossi realizes the satisfaction in helping others. Heller's text effectively gets across the idea of tzedakah without spelling things out too much. McQueen's rich-hued acrylic and oil pastel illustrations radiate warmth.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2011

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Alison Jay. God asks several creatures--giraffe, bee, child, etc.--if each had been the best they could in the year just ended, contributing their own special gifts for the benefit of the earth and of others. When all answer yes, God is pleased. Jay's paintings, notable for their crackle finish and subtle palette, are more engaging than the message-y text.

Reviewer: Amy Lois Cohn

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Boris Kulikov. Visiting her grandparents, Julie hears two very different stories about how they came to America. Grandfather's stories are exuberant tall tales, while Grandmother tries to rein him in; Kulikov's new illustrations do a marvelous job illustrating the contrast. Throughout, the love Julie and her grandparents have is palpable, and Heller makes it clear that truth can come in many guises.

Reviewer: Terri Schmitz