(3) PS Illustrated by Talitha Shipman. A light brown–skinned brother and sister wake up to the surprise of a winter wonderland. What will they do? They join their friends for a day of sledding, snow angels, snowball fights, and more until it's time to come in for cocoa. The very simple rhyming verse is suited for sharing, and the colorful illustrations invite the youngest readers to engage with the story.

Reviewer: Monique Harris

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Talitha Shipman. A little city girl sets off with her family for a day in the country: they pick apples then head to Grandma's, where they make applesauce, learn about this generations-old family tradition, and share a delicious meal together. Pleasant if bland illustrations with soft colors and soft edges accompany a warmhearted and informative text. The book includes an applesauce recipe and facts about apples.

Reviewer: Martha V. Parravano

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Talitha Shipman. A contemporary little boy named Judah tries to be the "best and bravest" brother (like Judah Maccabee, the hero of Hanukkah) for his baby sister--but she isn't interested in the block tower he builds, the cereal he offers, etc. When he needs a shot that will protect them both, he finds inner and outer courage. Colorful illustrations show a warm and loving family at Hanukkah.

Reviewer: Miriam Steinberg-Egeth

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Talitha Shipman. A family visits Israel, traveling to major sites and attractions such as the Western Wall, the Dead Sea, and the Biblical Zoo; wherever they go and whatever they do, "everybody says shalom!" Light watercolor illustrations show off the diversity and liveliness of the country, a good complement to the spare, rhyming text. The closing spread identifies each of the family's stops.

Reviewer: Rachel L. Smith