(3) K-3 Illustrated by Yoshiko Jaeggi. During her sister's wedding, a child in an East Indian American family participates in many cultural practices that are new to her. One such tradition involves a little mischief and humor: hiding the groom's shoes. Soft watercolor paintings, some of which are framed in a recurring golden pattern, portray lush, gilded saris and a loving, happy family. An author's note provides cultural background.

Reviewer: Lauren Causey

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Yoshiko Jaeggi. Tama herself narrates the story of how she first came to live with a poor Buddhist monk in Japan, then persuaded a wealthy samurai to take shelter from a storm in their crumbling temple by lifting her paw. Cat lovers will especially enjoy this story's delicate watercolor illustrations showing dainty Tama in the temple and outside surrounded by luscious cherry blossoms.

Reviewer: Susan Dove Lempke

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Yoshiko Jaeggi. During monsoon season in India, a boy and his dadaji (grandfather) spend a day sailing paper boats in a washtub, taking a walk, and swinging on a banyan tree. This paean to the pleasures of intergenerational companionship has universal appeal. Illustrations in soft colors display the warm-hearted sentiment of the text. An author's note gives more information about monsoon season.

Reviewer: Carolyn Shute

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Yoshiko Jaeggi. While on vacation with their family in Tuscany, Kate and her brother Michael discover a baby griffin. He needs their help, but what are they trying to save him from--their annoying older brother, the paparazzi, nosy scientists, or the griffin's own family? Perceptive characterization, strong sense of place, and a realistic family dynamic make this sweetly old-fashioned E. Nesbit–style fantasy successful.

Reviewer: Amy Lee Bennett

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Yoshiko Jaeggi. Dadima's descriptions of her sari's versatility capture her inquisitive granddaughter's imagination. While the dialogue is overly formal at times, the text and illustrations convey the pair's warm and loving relationship. The soft watercolors' borders and backgrounds mimic sari patterns. Directions on how to wrap a sari are appended.

Reviewer: Sethany Rancier Alongi