(3) K-3 Illustrated by Red Nose Studio. With suggestions on packing, composing a goodbye note, and gracefully backtracking to give your parents just one more chance, this lighthearted primer illuminates common frustrations of family life and the occasional need for a break. The photographs of slightly off-kilter clay figures set against backdrops rich with detail emphasize the emotions of the red-haired (and -nosed) main character, and his annoying but loving family.

Reviewer: Pam Yosca

(3) K-3 Illustrated by LeUyen Pham. Although it's five months away, a girl starts planning her birthday party, which she would like to include thousands of balloons, fifty-seven guests, etc. In a refreshingly down-to-earth turn, she isn't disappointed (hence readers won't be either) when her party resembles that of a typical middle-class child. Pham's illustrations make the real party look just as much fun as the fantasy version.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Edward Koren. A girl gives hilariously bad advice on cleaning one's bedroom: e.g., "Always wait until your mother hollers, 'GET UP THERE AND CLEAN YOUR ROOM--NOW!' using all three of your names." Huget is uncommonly attuned to a kid's sensibility, and New Yorker cartoonist Koren's inimitable style--shaggy contour lines; beak-nosed, somewhat dowdy-looking characters--seems tailor-made for this mess-filled comic gem.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Alexandra Boiger. Four rambunctious children rebel when their mother introduces Emily Post's new 1922 etiquette book into their lives. Turning the tables, they embrace the letter of the law and insist that their mother do the same. Energetic, personality-plump illustrations vigorously depict the chaotic family. An appended "Meet Emily Post" page gives further details about her life and work.

Reviewer: Sarah Ellis