(4) K-3 This timely alphabet book looks at the history and contributions of immigrants in the United States. Each page represents a different letter and a word beginning with that letter that relates to diversity and immigration. In addition to the (sometimes awkward) rhyming verses for each word, a few paragraphs of further information are provided along with original art created by one of several included illustrators.

Reviewer: Kristy Pasquariello

(4) K-3 Illustrated by John Hanley. "The pitcher? He looks tense. / D is for dimensions, the distance from home to fence." This alphabet book, an uneasy coupling of lengthy trivia and historical passages and uneven rhyming poems, will appeal mostly to Chicago Cubs fans. Hanley's accomplished paintings are the standout feature, from crowd scenes and action shots to portraits of famous Cubbies and the ivy-covered walls.

Reviewer: Miriam Lang Budin

(4) K-3 Photographs by David Milne. In this spot-the-differences book, fourteen spreads are presented for readers to find variations in two very similar side-by-side photographs. Sharp eyes will be needed for some (answers not provided); differences vary in number from "at least fifteen" to "at least forty-one." Singsongy rhymes provide a few clues while "Photo Facts" extend the information. An insubstantial but entertaining offering.

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Melanie Rose. Each letter is matched with a short, awkward poem ("C is one man's Courage. / Jackie Robinson did his part / by showing skin color doesn't matter. / What counts is in your heart") and longer, more sophisticated--and more interesting--sidebars about various sports figures. Though some of the accompanying oil paintings are muddy, they effectively display each sport's action and thrills.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Melanie Rose. Each letter is matched with a short, awkward poem ("X is for the X Games. / Go for bronze, silver or gold / in the summer heat / or the winter cold") and longer, more sophisticated--and more interesting--sidebars about various extreme sports. Though some of the accompanying oil paintings are muddy, they effectively display each sport's action and thrills.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Melanie Rose-Popp. From A to Z, a playful though stiff rhyming text introduces the history, rules, and notable players of soccer. Lengthy, detailed sidebars offer additional information geared toward more sophisticated readers. Bold, action-filled illustrations accompany the mismatched texts in this unremarkable but adequate title for the hardcore soccer fan.

Reviewer: Tamara DePasquale