(4) K-3 Illustrated by Joan C. Waites. In this retelling of a Native American tale, the moon weaves Spanish moss out of clouds to warm a mother and her children who are waiting out a flood in the branches of a cypress tree. Although unsubtle, the illustrations--rugged lines and blue-green palette--suit this haunting pourquoi tale from the Louisiana bayous. An author's note discusses how "Spanish moss has helped provide for my family."

Reviewer: Pamela McCuen