(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Barbara Pollak. On Career Day, Mallory is in awe of her classmates' talents, from dancing to sports to music. When she finally decides on her preferred career--fashion design--her inferiority complex causes her to tell a lie that spins out of control. In this eighth book about the endearingly flawed third grader, the story's messages about honesty and individuality don't feel forced.

Reviewer: Norah Piehl

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Barbara Pollak. The parents of nine-year-old Mallory's two best friends are getting married in a shipboard wedding, and even though she's invited, Mallory feels hopelessly excluded from the blended family's bliss. The solution involves self-absorbed Mallory learning to see others' points of view. The cruise ship setting and wedding plot offer new diversions in this seventh book about Mallory.

Reviewer: Norah Piehl

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Barbara Pollak. As Valentine's Day approaches, Mallory pours her heartfelt observations into her new diary. Designed to look like a real diary (complete with convincing illustrations), this sixth Mallory novel finds its heroine dealing with secrets, jealousy, and an admirer. Fans of sensitive, high-strung Mallory will relish this humorous glimpse into her innermost thoughts.

Reviewer: Norah Piehl

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Barbara Pollak. This chatty, accessible guide discusses everything from laser hair removal and embarrassingly big feet to masturbation and the definition of "cool." The narrative laudably emphasizes girls' right to choose from whether or not to wear a bra to whether or not to become a mother one day. Interspersed are short testimonials from adolescent girls and cartoon images of girls grappling with change. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Nell Beram