(4) K-3 Illustrated by Geneviève Després. Hanna, a raccoon, is sick of her skunk friend Lizzy being rude, competitive, and mean. After her family and pet hamster help her feel better, Hanna is able to repair the friendship. Though preachy ("So, I am good at some things and you are good at others"), the story relays a relatable conundrum. Watercolor and colored-pencil illustrations include full spreads and playful vignettes.

Reviewer: Chelsey Philpot

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Geneviève Després. Nine-year-old hockey-whiz Gabe dreams of wearing jersey 22 like her idol, Canadian hockey legend Hayley Wickenheiser. But a devastated Gabe gets 9. Gabe's grandmother reveals how she disguised herself as a boy just to play--and wore the same "lucky" number. The pep talk helps Gabe embrace her new jersey and appreciate her circumstances. Softly washed gouache illustrations complement the intergenerational tale's emotions.

Reviewer: Carrie Harasimowicz Sullivan