(3) K-3 Illustrated by Kyle M. Stone. Readers will be tickled by the premise: Ernest, an obedient little thing, "always listened to his mother." When new neighbors arrive, Ernest is excited to make a friend--a monster-kid named Vlapid whose bad behavior is encouraged by his Morticia Addams-esque mom. Stone's faux-Victorian illustrations, all swirling fog and dark-clad characters, are mostly humorous and just a teensy bit eerie.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Cathryn Falwell. Interesting perspectives on time are explored in this collection designed for children who are beginning to understand the concept. Some poems are just right for this age group, while others seem more suited for an older audience. For example, "Wasting Time" describes a child who "excels in the art of inaction." Falwell's whimsical mixed-media collage illustrations enhance the lighthearted tone of the book.

Reviewer: Aishah Abdul-Musawwir

(4) K-3 Inviting watercolor and pencil illustrations grace this sentimental month-by-month account of how Lucitita's family life becomes more meaningful once her great-uncle moves in. An optimistic, philosophical man, Tio Armando shares his homespun wisdom with his great-niece, and gently prepares her for his death.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.