(3) K-3 Illustrated by Andréa Wesson. Although Alma the opera-singing cat and her owner decide she's ready for her debut, Alma worries that people won't believe a cat can sing about love. She tries a disguise but ultimately goes onstage as herself. Dramatic perspectives in the expressive watercolor illustrations show the audience at first dumbfounded, then cheering for the feline diva.

Reviewer: Patricia Riley

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Debbie Tilley. Frederick, who never wins any contests at the fair because he's so infernally loud, finally finds his voice after entering the "Mom-Hollering Contest." The somewhat formulaic plotting and rather pat "be yourself" message are forgivable because of the great particularity of the dialogue and the pen-and-ink and watercolor art (check out Frederick's hand-sewn masterpiece, which wins first prize for "loudest shirt").

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Emily Arnold McCully. A curious cat wreaks havoc in a myriad of places, including the kitchen, a closet, and a bedroom. Each time, Cat is scolded: "Cat? Out!" When the feline trots through paint in the studio, however, he's finally forgiven; his paw prints reveal a heart-shaped design. Playful type design and lively watercolor illustrations elevate the slight story.

Reviewer: Sheila M. Geraty