(4) K-3 Illustrated by Susanna Lockheart. Two horse stories, respectfully abridged, are here presented in picture book format. The somewhat gimmicky volume includes amiable illustrations; every other page has an oval die-cut gatefold that, when opened, creates a second illustrated scene. Although Black Beauty is a tired choice for abridgment, The Knight's Mare is a little-known traditional tale whose inclusion freshens the volume.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Anne Yvonne Gilbert & Ian Andrews. Pirotta retells stories from both the Old and New Testaments, mostly elaborating on familiar translations. He adds, for example, kid-friendly details about the weather on the day Mary and Joseph travel to Bethlehem, and he resolves each story with a tidy ending. Softly textured illustrations enhance the mood of the tales.

Reviewer: Maeve Visser Knoth

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Emma Chichester Clark. Lovers of folklore will enjoy this noteworthy collection. These ten stories, including "The Sleeping Beauty: The Story of Briar Rose," "The Magic Gingerbread House: The Story of Hansel and Gretel," and "The Golden-Haired Girl in the Tower: The Story of Rapunzel" are illustrated in glorious full color.

Reviewer: Terri Schmitz