(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Andrej Krystoforski. This is an entertaining introduction to the countries of South America. The writing is the star here; Gorrell focuses not only on the physical geography of the continent but also on the people and various diverse cultures of each country. Sidebars provide additional information. The brightly colored spot illustrations are less effective but not distractingly so. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Tim Wadham

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Andrej Krystoforski. Matthew is so smitten with the monkeys at the zoo that he begins an all-banana diet, which makes his dream come true: he eventually becomes a monkey. But on Matthew's next zoo trip, he is impressed by an elephant.... The story is overly familiar, but the gag-filled art (e.g., monkey Matthew out-yogas his yoga instructor) makes it work.

Reviewer: Nell Beram