(3) K-3 Stepping Stone: Totally True Adventures series. Illustrated by Michele Amatrula. Readers who enjoy true-life adventures will find this title engrossing. Several early failed expeditions are described, touching on their inadequate equipment and unrealistic expectations. Herman then focuses on Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay's successful 1953 climb. The dangers and satisfactions are well described, and the immense contributions of Sherpas are acknowledged; black-and-white illustrations set each scene. Final sections touch on more contemporary events. Reading list, websites.

Reviewer: Miriam Lang Budin

(4) K-3 Stepping Stone: Totally True Adventures series. Illustrated by Wesley Lowe. Houran focuses on Lindbergh's preparations for and execution of his famed solo flight from New York to Paris in 1927. Readers will be gripped by this accessible account of the dangers he overcame on his successful transatlantic journey. Short chapters and rather dark black-and-white paintings help break up the text. Historical notes are appended. Timeline.

Reviewer: Miriam Lang Budin