(4) PS Illustrated by Carolyn Conahan. "This old van, she passed ONE, / shining in the rising sun." Two hippie grandparents drive past one train, two bulldozers, and so on, until they reach their grandson's derby race. Once readers figure out what to count (it's not initially obvious), the "This Old Man"–set verses offer a groovy ride, with help from the mellow, yellow-dominant art.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Carolyn Conahan. In each book, a kid visiting an out-of-state cousin receives state-specific gifts, one per day, during the twelve days of Christmas. Chatty, overly explanatory letters written home to Mom and Dad expand the information; additional state facts are appended to the stories. The books' cheerful illustrations get ever more crowded as the presents accumulate. Review covers these titles: The Twelve Days of Christmas in Oregon, The Twelve Days of Christmas in Ohio, The Twelve Days of Christmas in Indiana, and The Twelve Days of Christmas in Pennsylvania.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Carolyn Conahan. With accuracy and humor, this book explores how some animals use bubbles: e.g., as a raft (violet sea snails), for warmth (sea otters), and possibly for communication (herring). Pale watercolor illustrations help clarify the scientific concepts; additional facts about the sixteen featured animals are appended. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Carolyn Digby Conahan. Each of ten rhyming prayers is matched with a Bible verse and a lively, cartoony illustration, as of a family together or children at play, that reinforces the poem's theme. Apparently meant to be read in two voices, each poem has a for-kids refrain--"God smiles at me" or "God believes in me"--that occurs at regular intervals. Although collectively repetitive, the poems individually have an easy, light touch.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam