(3) K-3 On My Own Folklore series. Illustrated by Cheryl Kirk Noll. After sharing the gods' finest treasure, chocolate, with the Mayan people, god/king Kukulkán incurs the wrath of fierce Night Jaguar. Bokuden, Japan's greatest swordsman, defeats a boastful but gullible warrior with wit instead of weapons. The illustrations for each folktale nicely reflects its native culture. Back matter contains additional information, including a pronunciation guide. Reading list, websites. Glos. Review covers these On My Own Folklore titles: Bokuden and the Bully and The Chocolate Tree.

Reviewer: Laura A. Woollett

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Cheryl Kirk Noll. During the American Revolution, Rhode Island enlisted slaves to fight against the British because the state had too few available soldiers. Brennan discusses the development of the Black Regiment, its success in battle, and what life was like for troops after the war was over. A crowded book design includes sidebars, maps, and illustrations. A list of places to visit is appended. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: KaaVonia Hinton

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Cheryl Kirk Noll. Based on the model of the Grameen Bank in Bangladesh, this story explains how Sufiya and four other women get a collective loan and start five micro-businesses, earning money to better their lives and pay back the loan. The accurate, detailed watercolors display the village setting, the work, and the problems the women must overcome. An author's note goes into greater detail.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam