(3) PS Illustrated by Mark Fearing. Chickens attend a library's storytime in increasing numbers, causing chaos until the librarian finds a solution that works for everyone. Repetition and absurdity in the simple sentences should add mirth to group read-alouds; Fearing's cartoonish illustrations, packed with clever story-expanding details, reward attentive viewers with plenty of chicken and child antics.

Reviewer: Shoshana Flax

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Keith Graves. Froggie is jumping out of his skin with anticipation after Rabbit tells him their friends Gander, Goose, and new baby Gosling are coming to visit. However, baby Gosling does nothing but cry--until Froggie entertains her. The pacing is off (the characters spend way too much time cleaning), but Froggie's enthusiasm, shown in eye-catching acrylic, ink, and pencil illustrations, is infectious.

Reviewer: Alissa C. Salamone

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Keith Graves. After writing up programs, making a costume, and performing his favorite song for Grandpa's birthday, Froggie's sad when the big day's over. "Don't want to say good-bye!" he cries. So Rabbit reads him a story, and as Graves's palette fades to dreamy purplish-blues, Froggie settles down for the night. The story's pacing is just right for lulling hyped-up kiddos to sleep.

Reviewer: Tanya D. Auger

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Keith Graves. During a storm, Froggie barges in on Rabbit and listens while Rabbit reads a story. Each evening Froggie returns for another story, bringing with him more unwanted fuss and clutter. Finally, Rabbit sends Froggie away but then finds something missing at story time. Although the outcome is predictable and the colors are rather garish, humor fills both text and illustrations in this tale of companionship.

Reviewer: Patricia Riley

(3) K-3 Discovering Cultures series. This clear and up-to-date country book provides an introduction to Mexico's culture, focusing on school, daily life, leisure activities, and celebrations. One-page sections on a song, a recipe, and Mexican dress add to the content, as does information on currency and the flag. Colorful photos in a straightforward layout make this a good choice for reports. Short lists of books and websites are appended. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Beth L. Meister

(3) K-3 Discovering Cultures series. These two series books focus on geography, culture, daily life, school, leisure activities, and celebrations in the featured country. One-page sections provide information on a game, recipe, and related activity. Color photographs and a clear layout add to each volume's appeal. Short lists of books and websites and brief discussions of currency, the flag, and three notable people seem tailor-made for school reports. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Beth L. Meister

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Kathryn Brown. Stella's human family loves to watch her dance and whirl, but as the kitten grows into a cat, she becomes more sedate. She brings dancing to the house once again when she has some cavorting kittens of her own. Matched with playful watercolors, the story is told from Stella's point of view and makes a refreshing addition to the vast array of available cat stories.

Reviewer: Anne St. John