(3) K-3 Illustrated by Hoda Hadadi. Lalla, an Arab girl, longs to wear the traditional malafa as her mother does. She learns that the veiled garment represents faith to the women of her community. Hadadi uses textured papers and curved lines to highlight the drape and softness of the coveted dress. Cunnane gives her readers a glimpse of life in the Sahara from a child's believable, sympathetic perspective.

Reviewer: Maeve Visser Knoth

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Jude Daly. In rural Kenya, Chirchir tries to help with each family member's chore. But she only hinders them--dropping the water bucket, ruining the chai tea, and spilling potatoes. Finally, Chirchir helps by singing to calm her crying baby brother. Cunnane's poetic text effectively incorporates both Kalenjin tribal and Swahili words. Daly's delicate figures, in vibrant clothing set against earthy background tones, add appeal.

Reviewer: Bridget McCaffrey