(2) K-3 Illustrated by Paola Zakimi. A pine tree loves to watch trains. When a boy and his dad dig her up to take home, she misses the trains. Then she wakes on Christmas morning encircled by the tracks of a toy train. When Christmas is over, the family replants her on their farm near train tracks. The story is sweet without being saccharine; illustrations in soft greens and bright reds are homey and warm.

Reviewer: Martha V. Parravano | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2018

(2) PS Illustrated by Paola Zakimi. A little girl heads outside on a windy day with her yellow raincoat, umbrella, and lamb-like little dog. After waiting out a rain shower in a treehouse, she floats her open umbrella in a puddle, and then sets up a pretend tea party in a sandbox. This quiet picture book, with its spare, whimsical text and illustrations in muted colors, celebrates the joys of old-fashioned playtime.

Reviewer: Susan Dove Lempke | Horn Book Magazine Issue: May, 2017

(2) 4-6 Illustrated by Paola Zakimi. Six toy animals share an island and go on small adventures. The island gets a shake-up when newcomers arrive: first Mr. B, a rabbit; and then Clara, an imperious doll. The tone here is cozy and old-fashioned, but there's a level of anxiety under it all. Who are we really? Sophisticated black-and-white illustrations play to both the toys' cuteness and their not-always-sunny outlooks.

Reviewer: Sarah Ellis | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2017