(3) K-3 Illustrated by Mark Jackson. A platypus--"one of the world's most puzzling animals"--leaves its burrow and searches for food. Lyrical main text and straightforward statements (in a different font) provide a good deal of information about this animal, one of only two monotremes (egg-laying mammals; echidna is the other). Mixed-media illustrations in greens and browns, atmospherically sketchlike, depict the Down Under habitat and creatures. Ind.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz

(4) YA Relocated to an old family home, sixteen-year-old Bayley becomes fascinated with her mother's cousin Celina, who disappeared there as a teen. Propelled by visions and messages, Bayley risks her own safety to solve Celina's death. The boo! moments provide chills, as does Celina's ghostly presence as both victim and manipulator, but Bayley's own drama, particularly on the romantic front, is pedestrian.

Reviewer: Claire E. Gross

(3) PS Illustrated by Donna Rawlins. Three children and their teacher put out an imaginary fire in the nick of time. While the kids are resting from their pretend play, two real firefighters pull up to the schoolyard. The class is taught fire safety and gets to tour the fire truck. Unfussy acrylic illustrations in primary and secondary colors are eye-catching.

Reviewer: Alissa C. Salamone