(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Joe Sutphin. Books in which animals talk to each other and understand humans (but humans remain oblivious) are ripe for the sort of inconsistencies that mar this novel. Nevertheless, readers craving pleasant animal adventures set in the subways, sewers, streets, and parks of New York City may enjoy this inconsequential story about a rat rescuing his brother, who's become a show-and-tell assignment. Expressive pencil sketches appear throughout.

Reviewer: Miriam Lang Budin

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Matthew Cook. When Smalls, a sun bear, and his misfit animal friends are abducted by despicable Claude Magnificence, a story of circus animal abuse ensues. As Smalls's group learns to perform tricks, they make friends with two children and slowly build enough trust with the other circus animals--the "Lifers"--to plan an elaborate escape. Occasional pen-and-wash illustrations help ground the over-the-top story.

Reviewer: Sophie Williamson