(4) K-3 Translated by Elisa Amado. Tulip, a "watering fairy," grieves the loss of her beloved honey-making dog-bee named Lupin. A journey across the river and sea helps ease Tulip's sadness; returning, she finds a baby dog-bee to care for. Though we're told Tulip is bereft, readers never quite feel her deep sadness. Fanciful watercolor and acrylic illustrations splashed with tulip-reds and pinks lighten the story's mood.

Reviewer: Carolyn Shute

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Josée Masse. The princess is bad-tempered and BORED. Happily-ever-after comes in the form of a prince who shows her that, with paper, one can construct things, which leads to other activities that prevent boredom from creeping in ever again. Readers may empathize with the princess, but her unpleasantness is annoying. Dynamic angular illustrations display an elegance befitting a princess.

Reviewer: Amy Kellman

(4) K-3 Victor of the Noodle, a knight in a colander helmet, engages in imaginative play with his mum over his bowl of fish soup. Together they face storms of peas and carrots, a pepper dragon, and the Bad Fairy Zoop. Once chocolate cake comes into the picture, Victor finds the soup goes down a lot easier. The imaginative element often seems forced, but the spirited illustrations have a deadpan quality that plays well.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam