(4) 4-6 Monsters series. These volumes include background about the title monsters, including purported sightings of swamp monsters and appearances in literature and film by the grim reaper figure. Illustrations ranging from historical artifacts to movie stills and book covers add interest to the somewhat dry writing. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Monsters titles: The Grim Reaper and Swamp Monsters.

Reviewer: Beth L. Meister

(4) K-3 Step into Reading series. Illustrated by Paul Mirocha. A female nine-banded armadillo avoids predators (bobcat, human, canine) and sets up her burrow in preparation for childbirth. The easy-reader text provides interesting information (e.g., "Nine-banded armadillos always produce four babies, or quadruplets. These four pups are always exactly alike") but it doesn't flow well. The illustrations have a fuzzy-edged digital appearance.

Reviewer: Barbara Barstow

(4) 4-6 Monsters series. Each book introduces background myths and contemporary examples of the title creature, providing an overview of how stories have changed over time. Despite the volumes' dry writing, fans of Riordan's Percy Jackson books or similar adventures may enjoy learning more about mythical creatures. Photographs and illustrations enliven the texts. All but Pegasus includes website resources. Reading list. Glos., ind. Review covers these Monsters titles: Phoenix, Hydra, Pegasus, and Cerberus.

Reviewer: Beth L. Meister

(4) 4-6 Monsters series. Each volume presents the history and legends associated with the title creature, including appearances in popular culture and connections to real animals (where applicable) that might have inspired the legends. Stories from different parts of the world are included, which adds interest and context, though the texts can be dry. The range of photographs and illustrations will appeal to readers. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Monsters titles: The Sphinx, The Kraken, Mermaids, and Sirens.