(1) K-3 Illustrated by Molly Bang. Bang and Chisholm bring their energy-centered perspective on Earth systems to the water cycle. The sun serves as narrator, showing how its energy interacts with water and supports life. The science is superb, and Bang's illustrations are thoughtfully conceived representations of chemistry and physics. The sun emphasizes the need for conservation and management of water resources. The book closes with extensive, strongly scientific notes.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2017

(1) K-3 Illustrated by Molly Bang. Bang and Chisholm explain the production and consumption of fossil fuels, along with the consequences of all that energy use: climate change. The sun serves as narrator describing the relationship between photosynthesis (plants) and respiration (animals) and energy; a slight imbalance produces fossil fuels. Bang's illustrations brilliantly represent the chemistry: bright yellow dots of energy against a deep-blue background hover over their producers.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2014

(2) K-3 Illustrated by Molly Bang. This account of photosynthesis is narrated by the sun. Shining on every page, it celebrates its power with bursts of bright yellow connecting with the greens of Earth. Circular paintings emphasize the continuity of nature, while the spare, poetic narrative describes the process of converting energy and carbon dioxide into sugar. Back matter gives further information about the scientific process of photosynthesis.

Reviewer: Betty Carter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: May, 2009

(3) PS Illustrated by Molly Bang. When Leo shouts, "I hate you!" mother and son are both upset. Mom explains that words can be hurtful, then reassures Leo that she still loves him. With the help of a little humor, peace is restored. Harris offers a sensitive, realistic portrayal of family life. Bang's digital cut-paper and collage illustrations, complete with dramatic lettering, skillfully reflect the emotions involved.

Reviewer: Martha Sibert

(1) K-3 Illustrated by Molly Bang. The small, determined heroine (Little Rat Sets Sail; Little Rat Rides) takes on a new challenge: violin lessons. Bang-Campbell's text is divided into eight short chapters. Her matter-of-fact tone allows flashes of humor to shine even more brightly. Bang's deep jewel-tone colors provide a rich counterpart to the homely settings, and her spot-on visual representation of music is worth special note.

Reviewer: Lolly Robinson | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2007

(2) K-3 Illustrated by Molly Bang. Old Mother, an aged grizzly, gives birth to three cubs, hunts for food, and fends off a threatening male. The narrative is free from anthropomorphism, but tinged with melancholy. Bang's illustrations, in oils and chalk, capture Old Mother's stoic fatigue. Lush double-page spreads are intensely color-saturated. This is a moving and respectful portrait--of a grizzly, of nature, of a long life.

Reviewer: Martha V. Parravano | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2007

(2) K-3 Illustrated by Molly Bang. Skittish Little Rat has made progress since her last easy-reader outing (Little Rat Sets Sail), when her parents dragged her to sailing lessons; this time, horseback-riding lessons are her own idea. The illustrations are gorgeous and saturated with color, conveying the strong appeal of horses. The writing is solid, and the voice, funny and original.

Reviewer: Jennifer M. Brabander | Horn Book Magazine Issue: May, 2004

(1) K-3 Illustrated by Molly Bang. Little Rat faces a summer of sailing lessons despite being afraid of the water. Things get off to a bad start, but a compassionate instructor helps, and by the end she has learned skills, taken risks, and even enjoyed herself. The author captures the joys of sailing while presenting it from the point of view of a reluctant participant: no small feat. The illustrations are both gorgeous and functional.

Reviewer: Martha V. Parravano | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2002

(1) K-3 Illustrated by Molly Bang. Harley is pretty much a failure as a pack animal, but when a savvy shepherd chooses Harley to guard her sheep, the llama finds his true calling. This stands as one of the few books intended for beginning readers who prefer their animals with authentic attributes rather than human characteristics. The rustically textured illustrations warm the tone and highlight the action. This is a high adventure well told and respectful of both animal and audience.

Reviewer: Betty Carter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2001