(2) K-3 Illustrated by Hadley Hooper. On the first page of this moving true story, readers meet tenderhearted couple Lawrence and Françoise, who stand poised to greet them. They live on Thula Thula, a sprawling South African wildlife sanctuary, on which also roam rhinos, zebra, crocodiles, and more. When Lawrence is asked if he wants to adopt a herd of angry elephants, previously hunted, he accepts. The story chronicles in riveting detail the elephants' arrival; their learning curve in adjusting to Thula Thula; their eventual acceptance of life at the preserve; and their special bond with Lawrence. Their connection is such that upon his death the elephants, sensing his absence, head to his home and camp there for three days to be with Françoise. (Have tissues handy.) The story's flawless, gentle pacing illuminates the animals' initial fear and the time, patience, and compassion it takes for attentive Lawrence to earn their trust. He talks to them, sings to them, and even tells them stories--all details sure to delight readers. Hooper fills the pages with saturated, eye-catching teal, copper, and emerald hues. Shades of rich blue and soft rose heighten the story's emotional impact, particularly the loss of Lawrence. An appended note assures readers that the elephants continue to thrive at Thula Thula.

Reviewer: Julie Danielson | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2021

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Brett Helquist. Illustrated by Brett Helquist. This look at young Les Paul, the father of the solid-body electric guitar, capably explains the mechanics behind the boy's inventions--arguably a little too capably, as short shrift is given to interiority, although the retro-flavored oil paintings tease out the human element. This book is best suited for readers (including adults) who are already besotted with the rock guitar sound. Bib.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(4) 4-6 Megan is "zapped," or given a dare to do something exciting, on her first day at Saguaro Prep. Eager to impress her new seventh-grade classmates (and shed her dorky Mathlete image), Megan makes a wish on a magic clock for snow to appear...and it does. As Megan rather predictably navigates consequences of her magic--and middle-school mean-girl dramas--she satisfyingly finds her own voice.

Reviewer: Tanya D. Auger