(3) K-3 Illustrated by Suzanne Beaky. Zesty art and energetic prose with folksy inflections tell the tale of the original "girl cowboy." Young Oklahoman Mulhall defied turn-of-the-last-century gender norms (defended by her ultra-traditional mother), entering rough-riding and roping competitions at thirteen and ultimately traveling the country showing off her prize-winning and record-breaking skills, including for President Teddy Roosevelt. An author's note fills in some gaps. Timeline.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Suzanne Beaky. School nurse Penny's three "oh-so-smart students" notice she is not her optimistic, confident self. Their faith in her inspires Penny to hold a school assembly about head lice, at which she shares an awkward secret. While the message about lice infestations is a bit heavy-handed, the bright illustrations and touches of humor convey an upbeat tone. Lice facts are appended.

Reviewer: Gail Hedges

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Suzanne Beaky. One day overscheduled Ernestine bails on her lessons to do something outrageous: play. The book has a capital M message but also lots of heart. Plus, there's amusement in Lodding's text (e.g., a yodeling teacher named "Little Old Lady Hoo") and in Beaky's acrylics (e.g., Ernestine's fully clothed mother holds up a sign underwater asking Ernestine's swimming instructor where her daughter is).

Reviewer: Nell Beram