(3) 4-6 Fighting for Justice series. Illustrated by Laura Freeman. Enslaved midwife and herbalist Biddy Mason was brought to California in 1851 by her masters; she later sued for her freedom, bought land, and became a community leader. Illustrated free-verse poems (with some fictionalized elements) alternate with factual chapters documenting Mason's life, historical context, and the early Los Angeles African American community. Stylized illustrations accompany the verse; archival images appear throughout. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Melinda Greenblatt

(3) 4-6 Fighting for Justice series. Illustrated by Yutaka Houlette. Alternating stirring free verse with informational segments (each including a relevant timeline), this book powerfully reveals the story of the young Japanese American man who protested U.S. internment camps during WWII and continued fighting for civil liberties throughout his life. Stylized illustrations accompany the verse; archival images appear throughout. Ideas for young activists and a note from Korematsu's daughter are appended. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Melinda Greenblatt

(4) K-3 Calafia, queen of the magic island California, learns that a "distant land" has been named after hers. Defending their homeland to her, animals tell stories about the state's history and culture (each loosely represented by a letter). The alphabet structure feels arbitrary, but the whole is an unexpected introduction to California. Handsomely designed pages include ornate framed color vignettes. Further information appended.

Reviewer: Lana Barnes

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Chuck Todd. A female hummingbird nests in the backyard of the Baker family's house; her eggs hatch and the fledglings learn to fly. Bogue intersperses facts about these quick and tiny birds with a very loose story of the Baker family taking care of them. Todd's illustrations complement the tale's themes of wonder and discovery, but his nature scenes are stronger than the human figures. Reading list, websites.

Reviewer: Pearl Higgins