(3) K-3 Illustrated by Julian Hector. C.R. Mudgeon is a hedgehog of habit: everyday it's "celery root soup--no salt," "a cup of dandelion tea--no lemon," and "one small fig for dessert--but only on Tuesdays." New neighbor Miss Paprika teaches him how to shake things up, but in an interesting twist, C.R.'s old habits come in handy. Charcoal and watercolor illustrations depict the creature's curmudgeonly-turned-peppy personality.

Reviewer: Andrea Curtis

(3) PS Illustrated by Julian Hector. An omniscient narrator standing in for any mom or dad counts down the work days until week's end, when (most) children can spend time with their parents. This rhyming book about parental love manages to pull heartstrings without being maudlin. Hector tenderly depicts six families so different in composition and appearance that most every reader will see his or her reality reflected.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(2) PS Illustrated by Julian Hector. An urban firefighting crew quells an apartment fire. After briefly introducing one firefighter, the text moves into action. Heroic rescues ensue, each neatly encapsulated. The sturdy, simply modeled figures express a range of emotion; our hero looks especially solid, four-square, and compassionate. With its swift action, catchy verse, and appropriate palette (flame-red, white, blue), this should find good use.

Reviewer: Joanna Rudge Long | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2009