(3) K-3 Illustrated by Chesley McLaren. This alphabet book is at heart a giddy anecdote-replete celebration of some of history's most bizarre fashion trends (e.g., a bustle equipped with a music box that played "God Save the Queen"), as well as a few mainstays (high heels, nylons). McLaren's gleeful gouache and ink renderings are loose interpretations of the intricate work of the real-life designers behind the featured duds. Bib.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(4) YA Princess Diaries series. Illustrated by Chesley McLaren. Princess Mia and friends are back offering advice--this time on how to emulate princesses in order to do everything from improving one's fashion sense to becoming social activists. Although not as useful as the previous advice book, fans of the series will find this one entertaining. Scattered throughout are black, white, and pink images of princesses and their accessories.

Reviewer: Jeannine M. Chapman

(3) YA Princess Diaries series. Illustrated by Chesley McLaren. Princess Mia, Grandmère, friends, and even enemies (cheerleader Lana Weinberger) offer advice on everything from etiquette and fashion to self-defense and college applications. The sections not authored by Mia still include her amusing commentary (on Grandmère's bra suggestions: "This assumes, of course, that you actually have something to put in a bra, unlike me").

Reviewer: Jeannine M. Chapman

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Chesley McLaren. Women's rights activist Amelia Bloomer lampoons the restrictive costume considered proper in nineteenth-century America. When Elizabeth Cady Stanton's cousin Libby shows up in pantaloons, Bloomer adopts the outfit, to women's cheers and men's gasps. A gossipy, well-paced narration and freewheeling, stylish watercolor illustrations complement the story. An author's note is appended.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam