(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Rhian Nest James. Fifth-grader John collects dominoes and enjoys toppling his tile arrangements. When his best friend Dom gets cancer, John is afraid that more than dominoes will topple in his life. But how can John and his school friends help Dom? Murphy's free verse is lackluster, and the subplots are uninspired; but soft pen-and-watercolor illustrations complement the mood, and the uncertain yet hopeful ending feels realistic.

Reviewer: Cynthia K. Ritter

(4) 4-6 Samurai Kids series. Illustrated by Rhian Nest James. With the drums of war beating, a band of disabled samurai-in-training, the Cockroach Ryu, sets off to convince the Emperor to maintain peace. Along the way, the youngsters receive help from an unlikely source--the Owl Ninja clan. Some historical details are inaccurate, but struggling readers and fans of the previous book (White Crane) will enjoy the straightforward narrative style.

Reviewer: Carolyn Shute

(3) 4-6 Samurai Kids series. Illustrated by Rhian Nest James. Fourteen-year-old samurai-in-training Niya Moto has only one leg; his fellow students have similar disabilities. Under the tutelage of a legendary sensei, the group confidently participates in the Samurai Games. Issues of historical accuracy aside, this story of kids overcoming odds in feudal Japan is positive and engaging. Illustrations at the beginning of chapters and scattered throughout add a period feel to the tale. Glos.

Reviewer: Carolyn Shute