(4) K-3 Illustrated by Ilse Plume. "A mystery how / these endless rows of corn can / agree on their height." Each month of the year is represented by a haiku set on a large double-page watercolor painting of a scene from the natural world. The verses' wry insights are sometimes undercut by the prettiness of the pictures. Two pages of information about the seasons and a concluding haiku are appended.

Reviewer: Susan Dove Lempke

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Ilse Plume. When the Italian town of Gubbio is terrorized by a wolf, Brother Francis fearlessly meets "Brother Wolf" as an equal, offering it a deal that would ensure both the wolf's and the townspeople's security. The simply retold legend is well matched by meticulously detailed, unobtrusively bordered colored-pencil illustrations that are reminiscent of Renaissance paintings. There are no source notes.

Reviewer: Norah Piehl

(3) PS Illustrations set in Pennsylvania Dutch country depict a young Amish farm family. The page design is reminiscent of needlepoint samplers, and the tawny colors are earthy and pleasing. A smaller trim size lends distinction. Information about the traditional circle game and song are provided, and the music is included on the endpapers.

Reviewer: Amy Lois Cohn