(4) K-3 Illustrated by Joanna Yardley. Sheep-herding dog Shep became nationally beloved in the 1920s when, after his master died and was taken away by train, Shep waited at the station for over five years. Yardley's static watercolors reflect the changing times but don't truly convey Shep's spirit. Although wordy, Collard's narrative ably chronicles the genesis of a national (canine) hero.

Reviewer: Claire E. Gross

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Joanna Yardley. When Eli's night-light burns out one night, at first he's disconcerted by the dark; then he gradually begins to notice all the things that illuminate the night--his clock, passing headlights, and hundreds of stars. It's gratifying to see Eli create his own comfort in this subtly rhymed tale, whose soothing tones are echoed in the glowing pastel illustrations.

Reviewer: Erica L. Stahler

(4) PS Illustrated by Joanna Yardley. Ben draws a train that transforms into a life-size locomotive conducted by the boy and his teddy bear. Their journey takes them from Ben's bed through country and city scenes (constructed from and populated by Ben's toys) to "In My Bed" station. The blue-toned watercolors' successful transition between fantasy and realism carry the rather trite rhyming text.

Reviewer: Sheila M. Geraty