(4) K-3 Illustrated by Kirsten Carlson. Hirschi shows that seasons change in the ocean, too, as plants such as kelp and animals from humpback whales to zooplankton grow and develop throughout the year. The fluid prose too often sacrifices clarity in favor of literary devices. Realistic paintings illustrate the text. Reproducible "Food Web Cards" are included, and further expository text is appended.

Reviewer: Elizabeth Shaver

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Kirsten Carlson. This original fable demonstrates how a giraffe, monkey, and hippo, each of whom is afraid of something, band together to face a common threat--the crocodile--and in so doing overcome their individual fears. The palette of the gently humorous illustrations matches the African savanna setting. Information on animal adaptations, "fun facts," and several activities are included.

Reviewer: Cindy Lombardo