(3) K-3 Illustrated by Vigg. "It looks like nothing happens in this book," says a smartly dressed mole-snouted narrator in a barren space. But then he spots a big shoe, a small car, and other clown accoutrements and realizes that something is happening. This is one of those meta picture books that builds toward something worth waiting for: a gatefold spread bursting with cartoony circus antics ("WOW!").

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(4) PS Illustrated by Susan Mitchell. Sadler's rhymed text celebrates a baby's extended family circle of love. From Mama and Daddy to sibling, grandparents, great-grandmother, cousins, Auntie, Uncle, and a puppy, everyone "is reaching" for Baby, until Baby, now old enough, starts reaching for "everything new." Watercolors bolster the slight story, conveying the playful affection for Baby across the generations as everyone shares cuddles, books, and a picnic.

Reviewer: Sheila M. Geraty

(3) 4-6 Kids Can Do It series. Illustrated by Esperança Melo. After an introduction to knitting basics, different stitches are described and illustrated. The ten projects that follow can be attempted by either a beginner or more advanced knitter. The projects are kid-friendly (sassy scarf, silly slippers) and can be completed in a reasonable amount of time. The detailed color illustrations and photographs effectively guide readers through the step-by-step process.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford

(4) 4-6 Kids Can Do It series. Illustrated by June Bradford. These simple jewelry designs use hemp, beads, and other easy-to-find craft supplies to create a variety of attractive necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, and watchbands. The directions use too many page cross-references, but the photographs and diagrams help to clarify instructions.

Reviewer: Marika Hoe

(3) 4-6 Kids Can Do It series. Illustrated by Jane Kurisu. After explaining the basics of assembling a sewing kit, hand stitching, and machine stitching, this clearly illustrated book suggests several easy projects to sew. A skirt made from jeans, PJ pants, makeup bag, beach bag, and more are pictured with instructions clearly and methodically listed. Appliqué patterns are provided, as are suggestions for extending the projects.

Reviewer: Hilary Breed Van Dusen

(3) 4-6 Kids Can Do It series. Illustrated by June Bradford. This needlework handbook offers both general instructions and specific craft ideas. Despite the careful directions, beginners are bound to need adult assistance, but the projects--embellishing a pair of jeans, making an ornament, and sewing and decorating a pouch for CDs, to name a few--are appealing. The illustrations and well-planned design make the book easy to use.

Reviewer: Anne St. John

(4) 4-6 Kids Can Do It series. Illustrated by Esperança Melo. Young crafters interested in tackling basic knitting projects, such as scarves and blanket squares, as well as more challenging projects, such as socks and purses, will find solid two-needle patterns in this book. Although the detailed illustrations, absence of knitting shorthand, and descriptions are helpful, it's likely that true beginners will find the book mystifying without the guidance of a more-experienced knitter.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford