(3) K-3 Illustrated by Karl Newsome Edwards. Berlin parodies the preschool-standard "Itsy-Bitsy Spider" for slightly older picture-book crowds. The Hugely-Wugely Spider struggles to jam himself into the waterspout, but his rotund figure proves useful when he rescues his itsy-bitsy brethren from a deluge. With lots of exclamations ("HUGELY-WUGELY to the rescue! Time to plug this spout!"), equally energetic art, and a final irreverent update to the source rhyme, this is storytime gold.

Reviewer: Katrina Hedeen

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Karl Edwards. The journalism students of unconventional Kaboom Academy investigate the school's mysterious founder for answers to unexplained phenomena such as flying dodgeballs, hypnotherapy detentions, and a potion-brewing lunch lady. The could-be stock characters show unexpected depth, while the oddball environment, humor, and mystery make this a perfect fit for fans of Wayside School stories. Cartoon spot art adds verve.

Reviewer: Russell Perry