(3) K-3 Illustrated by Sue Cornelison. This unusual, true refugee story--centering on Kunkush, a cat who becomes separated from his human family after they flee Mosul together--will be of particular interest to children. Smudgy art in vibrant, saturated colors emphasizes the tenderhearted rather than the terrifying elements of Kunkush's ordeal and the joy when he's finally reunited with the family in Norway. Notes, photos, and a map are appended.

Reviewer: Debora Pearson

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Sue Cornelison. Best friends Penelope (an extroverted hippo) and Tiny (a shy mouse) try to prepare a "best-friend act" for the school talent show but run into a dilemma: Tiny doesn't want to be in the spotlight, while Penelope wants nothing else. Despite some didacticism, the story's repetitive structure, clearly defined personalities, and over-the-top thought bubbles will engage readers learning how to compromise with and support friends.

Reviewer: Claire E. Gross

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Sue Cornelison. Despite mouse Tiny's advice about navigating the first day of school, hippo Penelope begins the day wearing her "sparkle rainbow outfit" rather than the plain attire that will help her "fit right in." The didactic narrative touches on first-day-of-school clothing, lunches, and show-and-tell while stressing the importance of being yourself. Digital illustrations humorously pit the theatrical hippo against her quiet-minded mouse friend.

Reviewer: Sheila M. Geraty