(4) K-3 Translated by John Oliver Simon. Illustrated by Piet Grobler. Each of the volume's eleven poems focuses on one color. Sometimes using free verse and other times rhyme, the verse (in both English and Spanish) loosely follows the progression of color as day turns into night. Some of the poems are easily accessible while others are more abstruse. The accompanying illustrations, heavy on the subject color, also effectively use white space.

Reviewer: Antonio Trujillo

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Piet Grobler. With the rhythms of a traditional tale, this is an original story of a little mouse and her hermit guardian. When it comes time for the mouse to marry, the two set out to find "the strongest being on earth," who turns out to be another mouse. The fanciful illustrations, with their delicate images of flora and fauna, will entice young and old.

Reviewer: Melinda Greenblatt

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Piet Grobler. When the aptly named Prince Ma La Di falls ill, Doctor Me Di Cin is summoned to cure him. Realizing that the boy only needs fresh air, the good doctor entices him outside by telling him of the wondrous sights he sees on his daily walks. Finely detailed illustrations are enhanced by judicious use of handmade papers, effectively capturing the faux-Chinese atmosphere and mystical flora and fauna.

Reviewer: CHristine Sarrazin

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Piet Grobler. Fifteen brief, humorous poems written to accompany Saint-Saëns's "Carnival of the Animals" suite. From lions who'll eat anything but brussels sprouts and sauerkraut to swans who "gaze / at / themselves / all / day / and never / have too much to say," the verses take a lighthearted look at some mostly familiar critters. Tinted etchings add a sophisticated, New Yorker-like touch to the uneven but amusing collection.

Reviewer: Carolyn Shute