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Adèle & Simon In America, written/illus. by Barbara McClintock, (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2008), 40p, Ages 4-8.
Siblings from Adèle & Simon return in another early 20th century adventure, this time across America with their Aunt Cécile. As they pack for the train trip, Adèle reminds her absent-minded brother about holding onto his belongings, but Aunt Cécile has labeled everything with their name and her address. In typical Simon fashion, he manages to loose an item at each destination-a journal in New York, a pencil box in Boston, his cowboy hat in Chicago, a tin drinking cup in North Dakota, his canteen in Seattle, bandana in San Francisco, binoculars in Denver, a map in Santa Fe, pocketknife in Texas, jacket in New Orleans, vest in St. Louis, and suspenders in Washington D.C. Adèle is disgusted, but Simon is too busy enjoying the trip to mind his loses. Children will enjoy searching for the lost belongings in the illustrations and rejoice when the items are returned via the United States postal service. Endpapers trace the travel route and include historical and geographical background information about each place that is visited. Barbara McClintock's detailed watercolors are not only marvelous, but a subtle history lesson is incorporated for children.

The Best Pet of All, written by David La Rochelle, illus. by Hanako Wakiyama, (Dutton Children's Books, 2004), 32p, Ages 5+.
Dogs are too messy and loud says Mom, but dragons are okay if her little son can find one. And find one he does - in the drugstore. Roasting hot dogs in the living room and eating spaghetti in the bathtub, Mom is upset, but the dragon will not leave. However, it seems that the dragon is afraid of dogs.

Bunny My Honey, written/illus. by Anita Jeram, (Candlewick Press, 1999 HC, 2006 PB), 40p, Ages 3+.
When a little bunny wanders off and loses his way in the woods, mom finds her little honey, cuddles and comforts him, and kisses his great big feet, ears, and nose. Every child should hear this warm and reassuring story of unconditional love.

The Cabbage Soup Solution, written & illus. by Erika Oller, (Dutton Children's Books, 2004), 32p, Ages 4-7.
Elsie, a cabbage farmer, discovers that half of her crop is missing. With the help of her two cats and some cabbage soup, the bunny culprits end up becoming part of the family and even keep her warm at night.

Chicken Feathers, written by Joy Cowley, illus. by David Elliot, (Philomel Books, 2008), 160p, Ages 9-11.
When dozens of eggs on the Miller's hillside farm go missing each day, young Josh suspects that it's the work of a crafty fox. According to his talking pet hen, Semolina, the fox is using extortion to force the hens into giving away their eggs. Neither Josh's father or grandmother, who is helping out while his mom in is the hospital awaiting the birth of a baby, believe that Semolina can talk, much less help herself to grandma's "brown water" brew. However, using Semolina's instructions, Josh locates and closes the hole where the fox snuck into the hen house. When Semolina is attacked and carried off by the fox, friends and family rally around Josh in sympathy for the loss of his beloved pet. Discover how one sassy-talking, liquor-sampling hen manages to outwit the fox and wind her way into everyone's heart. This warm and touching tale is also a great read-aloud for the whole family.

Dimity Dumpty: The Story of Humpty's Little Sister, written/illus. by Bob Graham, (Candlewick Press, 2007), 40p, Ages 4-7.
Born into a family of circus performers, The Tumbling Dumpties, little Dimity prefers her flute to performing under the spotlight with her acrobatic family. When her mischievous brother, Humpty, accidentally falls from a wall while spray-painting his name across the bricks, Dimity finds the strength and courage to bandage his cracked shell and get help. Fun abounds from the delightful expressions of the characters to the egg carton circus wagon pulled by a hen. There are messages for everyone concerning the possession of special gifts and talents as well as consequences to face for bad behavior.

Duck and Cover, written/illus. by Jackie Urbanovic, (HarperCollins Children's Books, 2008), 40p, Ages 4-7.
Max and his friends from Duck at the Door and Duck Soup return for a humorous tale of an escaped alligator that is wrongly accused of eating another animal at the zoo. When Harold turns up at Max's front door pleading for help, Irene's animals are terrified of his size, color, and appetite. "Max was afraid too, but he remembered what it was like to be in trouble and alone. Now it was his turn to help someone else." They make sure that Harold is well fed while trying to hide him from the authorities. Nothing works, not even stuffing him into the breadbox, disguising him as a lamp, camouflaging him as a couch, or dressing everyone in alligator costumes. When the zoo detective arrives and explains about the misunderstanding ("The dog we thought Harold ate wasn't the girls' PET DOG. It was her HOT DOG."), all is forgiven. Harold returns to the zoo, and the cats breathe a sigh of relief.

Duck at the Door, written/illus. by Jackie Urbanovic, (HarperCollins, 2007), 32p, Ages 4-7.
Born in the spring, Max decides to stay behind when his flock flies south for the winter, but he quickly regrets this decision when it begins to snow. Seeking the warmth of a nearby home, Max makes himself at home with Irene and her menagerie of pets. Learning to use the TV remote control, discovering a flair for cooking, and hogging Brody's blanket, Max makes himself right a home. When his flock returns in the spring, Max rejoins them-to the disappointment of the family. The next winter, Max returns to Irene's house, but this time the whole flock comes along.

Fancy Nancy, written by Jane O'Connor, illus. by Robin Preiss Glasser, (HarperCollins, 2006), 32p, Ages 4-7.
Nancy is a little girl who loves to dress and speak fancy. After all, everyone knows that fuchsia is just a fancy word for purple. From the top of her tiara to her rhinestone-studded shoes, she loves living like a princess. However, her family does not share her enjoyment, and when they decide to allow her to "accessorize" them for one night, everyone is in for a big surprise.

Fancy Nancy and the Posh Puppy, written by Jane O'Connor, illus. by Robin Preiss Glasser, (HarperCollins, 2007), 32p, Ages 4-7.
Fancy Nancy is excited about her family's decision to acquire a new puppy. Nancy, of course, wants a fancy puppy, but she discovers while puppysitting a neighbor's dog (a papillon), that a small, delicate, and easily frightened dog is not always the best choice. Her family convinces Nancy that a dog from the animal shelter can be just as special. Of course, answering to the name of "Frenchy" helps.

Fancy Nancy: Bonjour, Butterfly, written by Jane O'Connor, illus. by Robin Preiss Glasser, (HarperCollins, 2008), 32p, Ages 4-7.
Fancy Nancy, from two prior books Fancy Nancy and Fancy Nancy and the Posh Puppy, is back in a new story dealing with problem behavior. Distraught at not attending her best friend's butterfly-themed birthday party due to a conflicting family obligation, Fancy Nancy is not only disappointed, but also furious (a fancy name for mad). Her mood soon changes when her family stays in an elegant hotel, her grandpa teaches her to cha-cha, the appetizers are heavenly at her grandparents' 50th anniversary party, and there is a surprise trip to the zoo's butterfly garden. Her outing is extraordinary (fun), and Nancy learns lessons about overcoming disappointment and apologizing for bad behavior.

Fanny, written/illus. by Holly Hobbie, (Little, Brown and Co., 2008), 32p, Ages 3-7.
Fanny desires a Connie doll, a glitzy department store designer doll, like the ones her friends have. Mom says no, "Because I don't like the way Connie dolls look . . . They're just too . . .much." Undaunted, Fanny makes her own doll and calls her Annabelle. When friends tease her about the strange-looking doll, Fanny persists and makes Annabelle more clothes as well as her own doll, which she calls Connie. From frustration, and embarrassment to persistence and confidence, Fanny is a sweet story about ingenuity and perseverance. As always, Holly Hobbie's illustrations are adorable. Endpapers contain an Annabelle paper doll and instructions for assembly.

The Firekeeper's Son, written by Linda Sue Park, illus. by Julie Downing, (Clarion Books,
2004), 40p, Ages 5-8.
Set in the early 1800s of Korea, bonfires were lit every evening on mountain tops signaling safety to the palace. When a young boy's father is injured, San-hee must assume the job of carrying coals up the mountain and lighting the evening fire. Sang-hee realizes that he, too, is "part of the king's guard." Historical notes are included.

Five Little Peppers and How They Grew, written by Margaret Sidney, (Aladdin, 2006 ), 351p, Ages 9-12.
"The little old kitchen had quieted down from the bustle and confusion of midday; and now, with its afternoon manners on, presented a holiday aspect that, as the principal room in the brown house, it was eminently proper it should have." At the turn of the nineteenth century, this was home to a widow and her five children who learn to cope with poverty, living near starvation, and illness with courage, devotion, and respect for their mother. Mary Pepper ekes out a meager living from sewing jobs, while her children Ben, Polly, Joel, David, and Phronsie take on adult responsibilities to keep the family together. A chance encounter with a wealthy boy and his dog changes their lives forever. Although written in 1881, this story is a charming tribute to the best in people, especially families.

For the Love of Autumn, written/illus. by Patricia Polacco, (Philomel Books, 2008), 32p, Ages 6-8.
Frightened by a storm, a small kitten runs away from Miss Parks' home. Autumn is greatly missed by the new teacher, as well as her students. One day Autumn turns up at Miss Parks' front door with a new collar and stitches in her tail. With the help of her students, Miss Parks solves the mystery and finds room in her heart to share Autumn with another cat lover. In the process, she finds true love as well. As always, Patricia Polacco's illustrations are marvelous in this tale of sharing.

Ginger and Petunia, written/illus. by Patricia Polacco, (Philomel Books, 2007), 40p, Ages 5-8.
Accomplished pianist and socialite Virginia Vincent Folsum, better known as Ginger, lavishes affection on her pet pig, Petunia. When called out of town, Ginger is unaware that her house sitter has canceled and that Petunia is happily masquerading as Ginger. Petunia dresses in beautiful gowns, drives the red sports car, gives piano lessons to Ginger's students, and dances with the mayor. However, it's a busy schedule and Petunia misses her mud baths. When Ginger returns, she soon discovers the impersonation and vows never to leave Petunia alone again. They both live happily ever after, wallowing in mud baths together.

Ginger Finds a Home, written & illus. by Charlotte Voake, (Candlewick Press, 2003), 40p,
Ages 3-7.
Ginger is a cold and hungry orange cat who lives in a patch of weeds until a little girl feeds him, earns his trust, and takes him home. Thus begins a great friendship.

Guji Guji, written & illus. by Chih-Yuan Chen, (Kane/Miller Publishers, 2004), 32p, Ages 4-8.
Raised with a duck family, Guji Guji knows that he is a bit different from his brothers, but he loves them anyway. When three bad crocodiles appear and threaten to eat the duck family, this small crocodile proves that family is more important and worth protecting.

The Gulps, written by Rosemary Wells, illus. by Marc Brown, (Little, Brown and Co., 2007), 40p, Ages 4-7.
On their way to Dizzyworld, a bunny-eared, overweight, junk food munching family takes a detour when their RV breaks down from the excessive weight of its passengers. Find out how sensible eating, exercise, and a little side trip to healthy Farmer Spratt's farm redeems this family from a dreadful future of obesity. This humorous, tongue-in-cheek tale reveals the hazards of overeating and the benefits of good nutrition and physical activity.

The Hippo-NOT-amus, written by Tony & Jan Payne, illus. by Guy Parker-Rees, (Orchard
Books, 2004), 32p, Ages 4-8.
In this heartwarming story, a young hippo tries to become like other animals. With a silly text and bright illustrations, Hippo finally discovers that happiness is found in ones own backyard with Mom and Dad.

Hunwick's Egg, written by Mem Fox, illus. by Pamela Lofts, (Harcourt Children's Books, 2005), 32p, Ages 3-7.
After a turbulent storm, a mysterious egg appears near Hunwick's burrow. The old bandicoot decides to befriend it and provide a home, even though the egg never hatches.

I Love It When You Smile, written by Sam McBratney, illus. by Charles Fuge, (HarperCollins, 2006), 32p, Ages 3-6.
Little Roo is having a grumpy day and nothing his mother tries will cheer him up. Suddenly an experience with a wide muddy-at-the-bottom hole changes everything. When Roo and mom accidentally slip and slide into the hole and come up wet, slimy, and muddy, Roo finally finds his sense of humor.

Inventor McGregor, written by Kathleen T. Pelley, Illus. by Michael Chesworth, (Farrar Straus Giroux, 2006), 32p, Ages 4-8.
"Hector McGregor lived in a higgledy-piggledy house with a cherry wife, five children, and a hen called Hattie." Hector also has a knack for inventing-peppermint pencils, glow-in-the-dark books, and a barking bag for the postman. Thinking that Hector needs peace and quiet, the Royal Society of Inventors persuades him to move to a quiet laboratory in town, but Hector finds the solitude too distracting. He soon realizes that his inspirations come from his family and returns home where he is happiest.

Little One Step, written and illus. by Simon James, (Candlewick Press, 2003), 28p, Ages 4-8.
As three ducklings return home to Mama, the older ones encourage the littlest by teaching him that every journey begins with one little step.

Mars Needs Moms!, written/illus. by Berkeley Breathed, (Philomel Books, 2007), 48p,
Ages 4-7.
A disgruntled little boy realizes too late that he loves his mother and will do anything to protect her, even traveling to the end of the Universe. When Martians, looking for a mom to cook, clean, pack lunches, bandage boo-boos, drive them to soccer practice, pizza parties, and playdates, kidnap her, Milo hitches a ride on their Martian spaceship. When his space helmet breaks, mom saves Milo's life by trading her space helmet for his broken one; because, "As anyone knows, breathing Martian air is like breathing mustard!" By now, the Martians realize that Milo's love surpasses their need, and they return both Milo and mom to Earth. The illustrations are captivating in this sweet and endearing tale of unconditional love. Stories like this one should be included in every child's home library.

Me With You, written by Kristy Dempsey, illus. by Christopher Denise, Philomel Books, 2009), 32p, Ages 3-5.
The love and special bond between a granddaughter and grandfather is described in simple rhyme and charming illustrations. "We're a pair beyond compare,/a rare and special two,/in all the ways that I am me/and you're completely you." They share tea, swing, sing, decorate, and treasure hunt together. Throughout the good days of playing and sharing and the not-so-good days of grumpy moods and selfishness, this special relationship represents the unique place that grandparents hold in a child's life.

Miracle On 49th Street, written by Mike Lupica, (Philomel Books, 2006), 288p, Ages 12+.
Josh Cameron, superstar point guard to the Boston Celtics, has fame and fortune. When confronted by an unknown 12-year-old daughter, Josh is reluctant to assume fatherhood, but upbeat Molly Parker wants a father badly. As their relationship grows, bachelor Josh realizes that just maybe he also needs a daughter. They both come to understand that love and forgiveness can break down barriers of selfishness and doubt. A host of wonderful supporting characters-a plucky and warmhearted housekeeper, loyal friends, and a greedy, agent-round out this beautifully written story of friendship, family, and unconditional love at Christmas.

Miss Spider's Sunny Patch Kids, written & illus. by David Kirk, (Scholastic Press, 2004),
40p, Ages 3-6.
Miss Spider and Holly prove to be great parents when they follow one of the babies, Squirt, as he attempts to return a large egg to its mother. On his quest, squirt finds help from several new friends who are also looking for their mothers.

Mister Seahorse, written & illus. by Eric Carle, (Philomel Books, 2004), 40p, Ages 4-7.
A beautiful introduction to underwater fathers who care for their babies. Using collage and overlays children will learn lessons in camouflage and marine life as well as devotion to the young.

The Most Perfect Place, written/illus. by Diane Goode,(HarperCollins, 2006), 32p, Ages 4-8.
What begins as a lovely picnic in the park becomes a series of mishaps for Mama and Jack. They fall into the lake, are splashed with mud from horses, Mama looses her hat on the carousel ride, and rain washes out the picnic. Readers will notice a cute little dog in each scene that causes all the mishaps. As they reach home, Jack discovers the little dog with Mama's hat in his mouth. All ends well as they accept the dog into their home and name him Spot.

Natalie & Naughtily, written/illus. by Vincent X. Kirsch, (Bloomsbury Children's Books, 2008), 32p, Ages 4-8.
Inspired by a real family, who lived above the famous Bergdorf Goodman department store, Vincent X. Kirsch has created a marvelous world around two young twin sisters, who live above their family's nine-story department store, Nopps. Natalie and Naughtily were opposite in every way, except when it came to playing in their department store. One rainy day the twins decide to help the customers. Two very young patrons, Rudy and Ridley Toolittle, were provided with Natalie's list of her favorite things from every floor, and Naughtily's map for guidance. Natalie picked out evening gowns for fussy customers on the second floor, while Naughtily helped find spring hats for everyone on the third floor. With good intentions, the girls try to aid the customers, but as the complaints grow, they are told to leave by department managers, store detectives, and clerks. Only the young Toolittles are pleased to have seen every floor and the girls are only too happy to give a private tour of their top floor. The illustrations of each floor are spectacular, and children will yearn to live above a department store.

On the Wings of Heroes, written by Richard Peck, (Dial Books, 2007)160p, Ages 10+.
Boyhood memories from World War II are recalled in this humorous and poignant story of a midwestern family and their courage, sacrifice, and love for one another. Davy Bowman adores his father and older brother, Bill. When the war begins in 1941, Davy and his family adjust to scrap metal drives, blackouts, tire rationing, and Boy Scout paper drives. Bill enlists as a B-17 bombardier pilot, but life changes drastically when Bill's plane goes down in Europe. Radio news is crucial, and grandparents arrive to help. Davy's heroes are his dad and brother, but there are other heroes on the home front. A retired teacher steps up to help in Davy's classroom, when his teacher joins the war effort. "Under Miss Titus we learned a lot more than we'd meant to. Spelling counted. Everything counted, and she ran our grade like Parris Island boot camp for the marines." With honesty and warmth, this delightful coming-of-age novel is a great read. Characters are memorable, humor abounds, and sacrifices pull families together.

Our Tree Named Steve, written by Alan Zweibel, illus. by David Catrow, (G. P. Putnam's Sons, 2005), 32p, Ages 4+.
Through a letter written to his children, Dad recalls the many ways that Steve influenced their lives. Steve welcomed them into the neighborhood, held up the tire swing, endured bad weather, illness, and became the center of their outdoor life, until a storm does unrepairable damage.

Papa, Do You Love Me?, written by Barbara M. Joosse, illus. by Barbara Lavallee, (Chronicle Books, 2005), 36p, Ages 4-8.
A father, from the Massai culture in Africa, confirms the special bond between parent and child that transcends the boundaries of time and place. A boy asks questions and learns about unconditional love by the answers his father gives.

The Penderwicks on Gardam Street, written by Jeanne Birdsall, (Alfred A. Knopf, 2008), 320p, Ages 9-12.
This charming sequel to The Penderwicks returns readers to the Cameron, Massachusetts home of four sisters and their professor father. Rosalind, the romantic twelve-year-old, Skye, the temperamental eleven-year-old, Jane, the dramatic ten-year-old, and Batty, the incorrigible four-year-old learn that their deceased mother left a letter for their father about dating. When Aunt Clair recruits bind dates, the four hold an emergency MOPS (Meeting of Penderwick Sisters) to discuss the situation and hatch a Save-Daddy plan, which involves finding perfectly horrible women for their dad. Even Batty contributes to the scheme, when she and Hound stow away in the backseat of dad's car to spy on his newest date. Professor Penderwick even decides to make up fictitious dates to placate everyone. So caught up in the plan to save their dad, the girls overlook a new widowed neighbor and her toddler son, who are the perfect solution to the dating dilemma. Adding to this humorous drama, Rosalind struggles with her feelings for a neighborhood boy. Skye and Jane switch homework assignments, which lead to a performance of Jane's Aztec play starring a terrified Skye. When the truth becomes known, hearts are mended, actions are forgiven, and the Penderwick family honor is restored. Humorous situations and tender moments abound leaving readers longing for more.

Peter's Chair, written/illus. by Ezra Jack Keats, (Viking Children's Books, 2006 Board) 32p, Ages 2+.
Life changes for young, Peter when his old baby furniture is painted a lovely shade of pink for a new baby sister. It's bad enough that his cradle, high chair, and crib are painted; but he refuses to part with his little blue chair. With his chair, cookies, dog biscuits, and Willie, the dog, Peter decides to leave. When he realizes that his chair is too small for him and mom is calling for lunch, home doesn't sound too bad after all.

Pig Little, written by Mike Thaler, illus. by Paige Miglio, (Henry Holt Books, 2006), 32p,
Ages 3-6.
Pig Little looks forward to spending a summer day at the beach. He thoroughly enjoys the drive, the castle-building sand, the feet-splashing waves, the fluffy animal-shaped clouds, the sandy peanut butter sandwich, ice cream cones shared with the sun, the blue shovel made for digging holes and hills, and pretending to be a pirate in search of lost treasure. With a day full of memories, Pig Little returns home to realize that part of the beach came back with him, just enough to make a small sand hill.

Piggy and Dad Go Fishing, written by David Martin, illus. by Frank Remkiewicz, (Candlewick Press, 2005), 32p, Ages 3-7.
Dad takes Piggy fishing for the first time, but the smiling worm and sad fish change Piggy's thinking about the sport. Dad saves the day by re-inventing the sport. Those fish sure like donuts.

Rickie & Henri: A True Story, written by Jane Goodall, illus. by Alan Marks, (minedition,
$15.99), 32p, Ages 5+.
Taken from her mother in the rain forest of Central Africa and put up for sale at a Congolese market, an infant chimpanzee is rescued by a kind man and nursed back to health.. Lonely, Rickie makes friends with the family dog, and a new friendship begins. Jane Goodall, well known for her efforts in chimpanzee research and rescue for over forty years, writes the afterword.

Rotten Richie and the Ultimate Dare, written/illus. by Patricia Polacco, (Philomel Books, 2006), 48p, Ages 6+.
With honesty, humor, and bravado, Polacco relates a part of her childhood with her older, pesky brother Richie. Trisha loves ballet, Richie loves ice hockey, and they battle over whose hobby is the best, until a "triple dog dare with skin-do's and two-up" changes their relationship forever. Tricia plays on Richie's hockey team and miraculously scores the winning goal, while Richie saves the ballet recital from disaster, proving that when all is said and done, families still help each other. The illustrations are vintage Polacco.

Stella, Fairy of the Forest, written/illus. by Marie-Louise Gay, (Groundwood Books, $7.95, ISBN 0-88899-710-8), 32p, Ages 4-7.
Now in mini format, the irresistible siblings, redheaded Stella and her slightly apprehensive little brother Sam, are back to explore the magic of the forest. Sam bubbles over with questions. "What do fairies look like?" "Do butterflies eat butter?" "Are there any bears in the forest?" Sam wonders why the trees have wrinkled skin like Grandma's. Big, confident sister is always ready with a logical answer. Stella replies that fairies are tiny, beautiful, and fly very fast, that only yellow butterflies eat butter, that bears sleep during the day, and that the trees have bark instead of skin.

Stella, Princess of the Sky, written & illus. by Marie-Louise Gay, (Groundwood Books, $15.95), 32p, Ages 4-7.
Stella and Sam are back in this charming adventure of exploring the nighttime sky. Sam has questions about the moon, stars, raccoons, fireflies, tree frogs, and bats, but Stella has all the answers, logical or not.

This Is the House That Was Tidy & Neat, written by Teri Sloat, illus. by R. W. Alley, (Henry Holt Books, 2005), 32p, Ages 4-8.
When Mom leaves for the day, the children and animals experience a series of wacky events involving crumbs, drips, splatters, and spills. The neat and tidy house that Mom left is now a mess. Dad comes home, and with the housekeeper's help, the house again is tidy and neat. Told in cumulative rhyme.

Three Pebbles and a Song, written by Eileen Spinelli, illus. by S. D. Schindler, (Dial Books
For Young Readers, 2003), 32p, Ages 4-8.
Preparing for a long cold winter, Moses' mouse family realizes that his contribution of a song and three pebbles are just as important as food and a warm nest.

A Very Busy Day, written by Diane Hendry, illus. by Jane Chapman, (Dutton Children's Books,
2002), 28p, Ages 3-7.
It's hard work digging, planting seeds, and picking weeds. Big Mouse needs help but Little Mouse is preoccupied with daydreams. What seems like laziness turns out to be thoughtfulness and love.

A Very Noisy Night, written by Diane Hendry, illus. by Jane Chapman, (Dutton Children's Books), 32p, Ages 3-7.
Little Mouse can't sleep due to all the noises in his cozy little house, and would feel safer tucked into Big Mouse's bed. But Big Mouse doesn't want wriggly Little Mouse taking all the covers.

What Eddie Can Do, written & illus. by Wilfried Gebhard, (Kane/Miller Publishers, 2004),
32p, Ages 3-6.
Eddie can deep-sea dive, tame tigers, and travel through outer space, but he can't rescue his friend from the double-tailed monster because he can't tie his shoes. Luckily, Mom comes to Eddie's rescue.

When Stella Was Very, Very Small, written/illus. by Marie-Louise Gay, (Groundwood Books, 2009), 32p, Ages 2+.
"When Stella was very, very small, she thought she was a turtle." From crawler to toddler to preschooler, Stella's charming and inquisitive personality is explained. When she was young, Stella believed that trees talked, words resembled ants that ran across pages, backyards were tropical jungles, bathtubs were Olympic pools, and sandboxes created sand storms. Older, Stella delights in teaching little brother, Sam, everything she knows-how to survive sandstorms, tie shoes, and track insects, all with her perfect wisdom, insight, and common sense. This is another charming addition to the many books about steadfast, sensible, and adorable little Stella.

Where Did That Baby Come From?, written/illus. by Debi Gliori, (Harcourt Children's Books, 2005), 32p, Ages 3-7.
The new baby does nothing but leak, eat, cry, and sleep at odd hours. A young sibling ponders where the new baby came from. Perhaps the bargain store, the zoo, outer space, the ocean, or maybe cooked in the oven like a gingerbread cookie.

Where's My Hug?, written by James Mayhew, illus. by Sue Hellard, (Bloomsbury Children's Books, 2008), 32p, Ages 4-8.
Rejecting a hug from his mother in the morning, Jake assumes that after a bad day the hug will still be available. He realizes that hugs travel from one needy person to another, when he discovers that his mother gave it to his dad (sad over his broken motorcycle), who gave it to the cat. Jake tracks his hug to the cat, who gave it to a witch (for a tasty fish), who gave it to the wizard (to cheer him up), who gave it to the knight in armor, who gave it to the princess (it made her brave), who gave it to the dragon (to tame him). When Jake demands the hug from the dragon, he quickly realizes that only good manners (PLEASE) will work with a dragon. Now Jake is careful to keep all his hugs. This bedtime story is cute, clever, and one that children will love to hear, especially before a bedtime hug.

You're All My Favorites, written by Sam McBratney, illus. by Anita Jeram, (Candlewick Press 2004), 32p, Ages 3-7.
Three small cubs seek reassurance that they are loved, but question which one is loved the most. Their parents assure each that they are loved and perfect, whether born first, second or third.