(4) PS Illustrated by Jenny Mattheson. Mrs. O'Leary's cow sparks trouble in this expanded version of the song "There'll Be a Hot Time in the Old Town Tonight" (likely better known to grandparents than to kids). Mattheson's bright oil paintings help mitigate the scary situation ("and as the flames crept near, / We feared that she would roast"); thanks to some brave firefighters, the barn is the only casualty.

Reviewer: Elizabeth Shaver

(4) PS Sing-Along Stories series. Illustrated by Nadine Bernard Westcott. In Hoberman's revision of the familiar children's song (musical notation provided), Yankee Doodle, his gal, and some animals (including a poodle) open up a noodle shop; their menu includes--what else?--apple strudel. The nonsensical story is clearly just an excuse to rhyme up a storm, but the lyrics scan, and Westcott's loose, detailed images gamely capture the spirited silliness.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(4) PS Sing-Along Stories series. Illustrated by Nadine Bernard Westcott & Nadine Bernard Westcott. In each of three books, the adapter expands the lyrics to a familiar children's song (music provided), taking it in an unexpected direction (e.g., the legendary lamb ban is rescinded at Mary's school). Not all of the rhymes are winners, but Westcott's loose, detailed watercolor and ink images succeed, and the books may inspire young readers to attempt their own irreverent revisions of the classics. [Review covers these Sing-Along Stories titles: Mary Had a Little Lamb, The Lady with the Alligator Purse, and Skip to My Lou.]

Reviewer: Nell Beram