(4) 4-6 Translated by Alexis L. Spry. Illustrated by Barbara Scholz. This volume includes two books about friends Max and Sophie, who take gardening jobs only to find out they're actually tending ghosts, not plants. The kids are a bit reluctant, holding back from adventure rather than diving in, and the plot lines may not grab readers' attentions. Some nicely inked black-and-white illustrations help display the action.

Reviewer: Becky Levine

(4) 4-6 Translated by Alexis L. Spry. Illustrated by Winfried Opgenoorth. This book details the stormy events that influenced Beethoven's personal and musical development, giving readers an overview of his life and work. Though the text is quite informative, melodramatic invented dialogue and stiff illustrations mar this offering. A CD featuring excerpts from Beethoven's major works is included. Timeline.

Reviewer: Paula M. Cairo

(4) K-3 Translated by Alexis L. Spry. Illustrated by Tina Schulte. Gloria the cow knows she's destined to be a performer. When the other heifers fail to appreciate her unique brand of singing and dancing, Gloria sets out to find a more sophisticated audience. The cartoon illustrations are amusing, but the plot's lack of a traditional climax and denouement leads to an abrupt ending (Gloria finds immediate success once she leaves home).

Reviewer: Norah Piehl