(3) K-3 A+ Step by Step Stories series. Using plenty of staged photographs of an African American dad and his son, this book demonstrates how to carve a pumpkin, including tips on choosing a good one and using the right tools. Meant to encourage early literacy skills, the text features short captions closely paired with the photos, chapter headings, and a sequencing "quiz" at book’s end. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Bridget McCaffrey

(4) K-3 Fairy-Tale Superstars series. Illustrated by Carolina Farias. Each book briefly states whether its subject is real and then summarizes legends about it ("In fairy tales, most princesses have long hair"). Though the books might serve as introductions for readers completely unfamiliar with folklore, they won't teach other readers very much that's new. The illustrations in Fairies and Princesses create a lighter atmosphere than in Dragons. Reading list. Glos., ind. Review covers these Fairy-Tale Superstars titles: The Truth About Princesses, The Truth About Fairies, and The Truth About Dragons.

Reviewer: Shoshana Flax