(3) K-3 Photographs by Ellen B. Senisi. This invitingly designed photo-essay offers a look at the activities of kindergartners on opposite sides of the world. The first half follows a class of students in Schenectady, New York, as they go about their daily routine. Readers can then flip the book over and follow a class in Beijing. Crisp, nicely varied photos document each phase of the day.

Reviewer: Martha Sibert

(3) 4-6 Photographs by Ellen B. Senisi. Profusely illustrated with clear color photographs and art reproductions, this accessible book introduces Beijing's Forbidden City, the immense walled complex from which twenty-four emperors ruled China for some five hundred years. Marx piques readers' interest by presenting seven fictional vignettes about real people and events connected with the Forbidden City, then follows up by explaining the historical context of each story. Timeline. Bib., glos.

Reviewer: Martha Sibert

(4) 4-6 Photographs by Ellen B. Senisi. Seven young men in a steel drum band practice hard and make it to Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater. The text lacks focus when discussing each person's background, though it does give a personal spin to the contest, as do photos of the performers in action. Sidebars include interesting Apollo history. A CD of the group is included.

Reviewer: Henrietta M. Smith