(4) K-3 Illustrated by Roberta Baird. In a Halloween-themed takeoff on the classic tale, the Pumpkin Pie Man is pursued by witches, cats, Dracula, ghosts, werewolves, and skate-boarding trick-or-treaters before eventually being devoured by everyone at a Halloween party. Accompanied by jovial illustrations, the story is entertaining if spiced with too many adjectives and exclamation points. Includes a pie recipe and curriculum-related activities.

Reviewer: Kitty Flynn

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Roberta Baird. "This is the algae / that carpets the swamp / where Gator hides." In this cumulative tale, which features swamp mainstays including a duck and a sunfish, Gator is hiding from the reader as well; kids (they needn't be sharp-eyed) can spot him in every glossy, slickly illustrated spread. The book's back matter provides further information on swamp life. Reading list, websites.

Reviewer: Nell Beram