(4) K-3 Illustrated by Dan Krall. Spoiled little rich dog Mabel's vision problems cause various comical misunderstandings until her human "parents" finally take her to a doggy optometrist. This Mabel story is more transparently purposeful than its predecessor (Naughty Mabel), but the authors' wit survives (Mabel's seventy-year-old neighbor is "490 in dog years"), as do Krall's cheeky visuals (don't miss Martha Stewart as seen in Mabel's triple vision).

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Dan Krall. Eloise, Schmeloise. French bulldog Mabel describes her luxurious life in the Hamptons with her "parents" ("very sweet, for humans"), who tolerate her destructive ways ("I just like to keep things interesting") and love her despite her party-ending flatulence (the book's grand finale). Actor Lane's larger-than-life personality comes through with every wisecrack and witty aside, and the ultra-glam art keeps up--somehow.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Dan Krall. Zoo chipmunks Cutesy, Blinky, and Bob go unnoticed by crowds who ogle sleeping sloths, grass-chewing zebras, and other boring inhabitants. They don costumes, play rock music, and attempt dangerous feats--but still nothing. When they resort to their zoo neighbors' behaviors, the crowds (and paparazzi) swarm--to the trio's surprising dislike. The silly chubby-cheeked critters are textually and visually full of character.

Reviewer: Carrie Harasimowicz Sullivan

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Dan Krall. Fed up with Mom's talk of manners, a girl considers swapping places with animals whose standards of behavior are looser. After contemplating the various creatures' pros and cons, monster manners (or lack thereof) win out. In this humorous challenge to parental authority, the parent-mocking speech-bubble text will have kids laughing out loud. Boldly colored digital illustrations work well with the silly scenarios.

Reviewer: Sethany Rancier Alongi