(4) K-3 Illustrated by Constance R. Bergum. How creatures of various habitats utilize and cope with the heat of the sun--from children playing in a lawn sprinkler to salamanders burrowing into mud to a turkey vulture urinating on its legs--forms the narrative of this book. Detailed watercolors on triptych, diptych, and full-double-page spreads evocatively illustrate the creatures' fascinating phenomena; unfortunately, the human likenesses are much stiffer.

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Constance R. Bergum. A family enjoys outdoor winter activities while underground, underwater, and hidden within crevices of trees, stones, etc., various animals hunker down for the season. From ladybugs to snakes, woodchucks to carp, each type of creature has a unique method of ensuring its survival until springtime. Expansive watercolor illustrations extend a text that is both lyrical and informative.

Reviewer: Amy Lois Cohn

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Constance R. Bergum. When rain falls in a neighborhood, field, wetland, or desert, the animals in those environs seek shelter (e.g., ants in their underground nests) or use their bodies for protection (the squirrel's bushy tail serves as an umbrella). The minimal text conveys some interesting facts, and the watercolor illustrations adequately depict the natural settings, but the human figures are awkwardly stiff.

Reviewer: Sheila M. Geraty

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Constance R. Bergum. In this sentimental story, Anna wants to help her younger sister dance again after she is struck with polio. Treatment was limited in the early 1900s, but a strong will and some imagination help the sisters laugh together. Sunny watercolor illustrations set the midwestern farm scene.

Reviewer: Amy Kellman

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Constance R. Bergum. Both of Jessie's grandfathers are dead, then she meets Daniel, Grandpa Ray's old friend. When Daniel gently introduces Jesse to the wonders of nature during her summer holiday in the country, she asks, "Could I have three grandfathers?" Daniel replies, "Why not?" Pale watercolors, full of summer light, enhance this predictable story.

Reviewer: Hilary Breed Van Dusen