(3) K-3 Illustrated by Miki Sato. The sound of peepers in early spring leads two children to discover a world of life in a vernal pool. The detailed collage illustrations, perfectly suited to the gently rhyming text, show the young naturalists returning to observe the area in subsequent seasons. Helpful back matter about vernal pools is appended.

Reviewer: Kitty Flynn

(2) K-3 Illustrated by Miki Sato. Della Rose Santiago (as her name appears on her “first-ever ornament”) narrates this decoration play-by-play: “Clean up your toys so the tree has a nice place to stand.” After helping with the lights, Della tells the story of each ornament as she hangs it on the tree. A pinecone from camping, a manekineko from her apan, a parol (“the oldest ornament...It belonged to Lola Reyna” from the Philippines). Toward the end, Della and the cozy collage illustrations reveal the “you” she’s been speaking to: “This year, we have a new ornament” with a new sibling’s name on it. A warm celebration of family history and holiday tradition.

Reviewer: Kitty Flynn | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2023