(4) K-3 Illustrated by Margaret Chamberlain. Auntie Sara's house presents a world of make-believe opportunities, from dressing up to taming dragons. However, on this day little Imogen proclaims: "I just want to be...ME!" They agree to have a special ball-playing, ice-cream-eating day, "for you to be you and me to be ME." The story hammers home its point, but playfulness in the text and pink-heavy illustrations add levity.

Reviewer: Carrie Harasimowicz Sullivan

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Margaret Chamberlain. A lion, furious with a girl for walking and singing in his jungle, threatens to eat her--until she offers to draw him. The kindness-breeds-beauty message feels pasted on, although the story's ingredients--not-so-scary lion, animal sounds, clever child--may entice younger children. The mixed-media art is awash with vivid oranges, purples, and yellows.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Margaret Chamberlain. Penguin Patrick awakens to find that he has turned pink overnight ("But I'm a boy!...And boys can't be pink!"). His classmates' teasing compels him to go to Africa to find kindred spirits: flamingos. Kids will respond well to the drama and humor, plus a color scheme so bold with yellows, greens, and blues that pink gets a run for its money.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(3) PS Illustrated by Margaret Chamberlain. Gloria the cat's arrival causes canine Calvin to endure paroxysms of resentment, anxiety, and gloom as his walks are forgotten and his food bowl co-opted. Strategically placed bold typeface accentuates Calvin's indignant, tragicomic tone. The illustrations--clean pencil drawings with digital color and texturing in a cheerful but restrained palette--capture Calvin's spiraling emotions. A twist ending promises mischief in Calvin's future.

Reviewer: Claire E. Gross