(3) K-3 Illustrated by Robin Boyden. This picture book introduces artist and television personality Bob Ross: his early years loving nature and animals; his military career in Alaska; and the home he found on public television, where he filmed hundreds of episodes of The Joy of Painting from 1983 to 1994. Quotes by the artist are interspersed throughout in red type, demonstrating his gentle, encouraging style. The soft but appropriately colorful illustrations, including a few stunning double-page spreads, show vignettes from Ross's life (and showcase his growing hairstyle). More information about Ross and his TV show, a glossary of applicable art terms, and a bibliography are appended.

Reviewer: Rachel L. Kerns

(4) 4-6 Mysterious Makers of Shaker Street series. Illustrated by Robin Boyden. Neighbors Michael, Liz, and Leo love building and tinkering with everyday objects and discarded gadgetry, and they use their inventions to solve tame neighborhood mysteries. What's in the peculiar collection of large boxes in Mrs. Peterson's yard (Picture's)? And what's causing that unusual sound at night (Sounds)? Straightforward plots, black-and-white spot illustrations, and appended "Maker" activities make this series appealing for reluctant readers. Glos. Review covers these Mysterious Makers of Shaker Street titles: A Picture's Worth a Thousand Clues, and Sounds like Trouble.

Reviewer: Grace Enriquez

(4) 4-6 Mysterious Makers of Shaker Street series. Illustrated by Robin Boyden. Neighbors Michael, Liz, and Leo love building and tinkering with everyday objects and discarded gadgetry, and they use their inventions to solve tame neighborhood mysteries. What's in the peculiar collection of large boxes in Mrs. Peterson's yard (Picture's)? And what's causing that unusual sound at night (Sounds)? Straightforward plots, black-and-white spot illustrations, and appended "Maker" activities make this series appealing for reluctant readers. Glos. Review covers these Mysterious Makers of Shaker Street titles: A Picture's Worth a Thousand Clues, and Sounds like Trouble.

Reviewer: Grace Enriquez