(4) K-3 Illustrated by Julie Olson. The stories of Cinderella and Snow White are given epistolary treatment in this picture book. In letters back and forth, pen pals Cinderella and Snow White confide in each other about evil stepmother struggles, chores, dreams, blossoming romances, and fairy-tale endings. The final scene is of their double wedding at the Royal Palace. Accompanied by unattractive illustrations, the lighthearted correspondence is fun to read.

Reviewer: Meredith M. Sittman

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Julie Olson. This book relates a young penguin's first year, from hatching atop his father's feet to learning to swim and escaping a leopard seal. Although the text and illustrations are somewhat anthropomorphic, the details represent authentic behavior. Effectively varying perspective, the pictures exploit the sharp contrast between black-and-white penguins and blue-white snow and ice.

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Julie Olson. Dog-lover Addie May finds herself helping the class bully find his lost (stolen?) Chihuahua. She uncovers the root of the mysterious disappearances of dozens of Chihuahuas and learns about loneliness. Though Addie May is at times overly precocious and some plot elements are too easily resolved, the well-paced mystery, accompanied by nicely shaded black-and-white illustrations, will hold readers' attention.

Reviewer: Lauren Aimonette LIang

(4) PS Illustrated by Julie Olson. As she tidies up for the night, a mother finds that her husband and children, as well as the farm animals, have already fallen asleep: "Cute as can be, my son John, / Went to bed with shoes on..." The structure is an agreeable one, though the rhythm occasionally falters. Watercolor and ink illustrations show the characters getting ready for bed.

Reviewer: Martha Sibert

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Julie Olson. Exuberant Annie McRae thrives on the many compliments she receives from adults. But when everyone is too busy to compliment her, she eventually learns to cheer for herself instead. Western touches in the expressive artwork add dimension to this pleasant tale with an appealing main character and satisfactory, if slight, plot.

Reviewer: CHristine Sarrazin