(4) K-3 Illustrated by Stephen Costanza. This retelling of a Ukrainian tale pairs two mothers--spider and human--doing the best for their families on a cold Christmas Eve. The story's sentiments are moving, though the self-conscious narrative veers toward saccharine. The folksy illustrations are much more successful: varying perspectives, delicate lines, and frosty scenes imbue the tale with holiday magic.

Reviewer: Brittany Schlorff

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Stephen Costanza. A princess with too-big feet and a prince with an oversize nose each cannot find a mate--until they meet under circumstances that hide their most obvious features. Because their charm and warmth take center stage, a match is made even after feet and nose are revealed. Good-humored verse and expansive double-page-spread pastel illustrations present the story's message in a nondidactic way.

Reviewer: Amy Kellman

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Stephen Costanza. To compete with the pizza-delivery businesses that threaten his family's pasta business, Al Dente invents a portable pasta maker. The townspeople still prefer pizza--until the pasta machine proves useful in emergencies. Although somewhat long, this punning ("Quick, use your noodle!"), action-packed story is entertaining. The absurd plot points are expertly interpreted in Costanza's watercolors.

Reviewer: Nell Beram