(3) K-3 Illustrated by Laurel Molk. Worry-filled little dog Sukie visits the beach with her child owner, Eleanor. Sukie is afraid of the sand, a beach ball, and the water--and "besides, there might be lobsters." But when Sukie's stuffed monkey, Chunka Monka, needs rescuing, the pup bravely conquers her fears. Playful watercolor, acrylic, and pen-and-ink illustrations add humor to the recognizable plot and will endear timid little Sukie to readers.

Reviewer: Janet Daniels

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Laurel Molk. Giant Galápogos tortoise Harriet defies other creatures' jeers and explores the ocean and surrounding islands at her own slow pace: "She was in no hurry. There was plenty to see." A calmly voiced narrative encourages readers to follow their own rhythms, while eye-catching watercolor and block-print illustrations depict the exotic creatures along Harriet's saunter. Note on a real tortoise named Harriet included.

Reviewer: Renée Wheeler

(3) PS Illustrated by Laurel Molk. A host of baby animals, including Little Mouse, Little Frog, and Little Snake, tip-toe, hop, dig, slither, scratch, and creep their way to Grandma's house in this bouncy book. Rhyme, repetition, and the playful, onomatopoeic language make this especially appealing for read-alouds. Large watercolors in earthy tones of gray, green, and brown are soft and fluid.

Reviewer: Carolyn Shute