(2) 4-6 Illustrated by Fanny Liem. Ten-year-old Dottie's treehouse-construction plans are interrupted when Grandpa Walter shows up at the family's front door, a Chock full o'Nuts coffee can in tow. Mourning the recent loss of Dottie's grandma, Grandpa Walter now consoles himself by talking to her via the Chock full o'Nuts can. Soon both Grandpa and the can have taken up long-term residence in Dottie's room (and changed the wall color). Dottie endures this disruption bravely, trying to emulate her beloved grandmother, but the situation causes what already feels like a menagerie of animals inside her to grow (an alligator soon joined by a porcupine, an octopus, and a kangaroo). Dottie's friend Sam, with his extensive vocabulary, and their antagonist-turned-friend Miles are going through personal struggles too: Sam's mom is having a new baby, and Miles's parents are getting divorced. By joining forces, they each find their way by questioning ­everything, trying to create space for themselves (primarily through the ambitious treehouse project), and helping one another along--sometimes effectively and sometimes slightly less so. Dottie's realistic inner emotional journey contrasts well with her more whimsical day-to-day antics. Though centered in processing grief and change, the short, question-titled chapters filled with humor, quirkiness, and spot illustrations create a warm and buoyant story of family and friendship.

Reviewer: Julie Roach | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2023

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Trevor Spencer. Teddy's summer plans are sidelined when his stay-at-home mom gets a job, strict Great-aunt Ursula moves in, and his neighbor's pet pigeons are threatened with eviction. With the help of his admiring little brother, Teddy must rally the community to save the beleaguered birds. Energetic black-and-white spot art enhances this garden-variety blend of wacky humor, heartfelt family dynamics, and civic involvement.

Reviewer: Russell Perry

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Trevor Spencer. Teddy has finally set a world record, but his mania for competition is tested when his classmates decide to break a group record together. They split into rival groups, both seeking his help; Teddy just wants to stop the infighting. Over-the-top humor and authentic dynamics among family and friends will delight returning fans, despite the story's predictability. Black-and-white illustrations not seen.

Reviewer: Russell Perry

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Trevor Spencer. Ten-year-old Teddy Mars is obsessed with breaking a world record and standing out in his large and boisterous family. After getting a job tending a neighbor's homing pigeons, Teddy's world record might be within reach...if Teddy can avoid his hero-worshiping little brother. Believable family relationships, plenty of humor and heart, and emotive black-and-white spot art elevate the familiar plot.

Reviewer: Russell Perry