(2) 1-3 Illustrated by Lauren Castillo. Newly independent readers see Julian and Huey (The Stories Julian Tells; The Stories Huey Tells) from the point of view of Huey's dog in this beginning chapter book. Short, near-episodic chapters give voice to Spunky's life with humans; magical realism and mythology take young readers beyond the everyday occurrences usually covered in books for them. There's much to contemplate and enjoy here.

Reviewer: Betty Carter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2011

(2) 4-6 "Uncle" claims to have found Tzunún, abandoned, when she was four. Now somewhere near twelve, she works as his assistant as he passes bad bills or poses as a blind beggar. Once she makes the choice to leave him, the story's pace quickens. The blending of Spanish and Mayan cultures evokes a present-day Guatemala shaped by myth and war and the syncretism of Christian and traditional beliefs. The tone is serious but not somber.

Reviewer: Lauren Adams | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2003

(4) 1-3 Illustrated by Lis Toft. When Gloria tells Mrs. Yardley, her fourth-grade teacher, that she met an astronaut, Mrs. Yardley, known as the "Dragon of Doom," doesn't believe it. The astronaut visits Gloria's class and helps Mrs. Yardley see her students in a more positive light while encouraging Gloria to face her fears. This second book about Gloria has some good moments but lacks the humor and coherence of Gloria's Way.

Reviewer: Patricia Riley

(2) 1-3 Illustrated by Lis Toft. Though Julian and Huey's friend Gloria is protagonist and narrator in this latest entry in Cameron's popular series, it's the boys' dad, Mr. Bates, who's most available for advice, since his car repair shop is nearby. The book isn't didactic; when advice is explicit, it is always in response to problems that readers will perceive and puzzle over. Toft's drawings nicely capture key scenes and emotions in this attractive, accessible chapter book.

Reviewer: Joanna Rudge Long | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2000

(3) 4-6 In 1950s Wisconsin, Amanda thinks she'll never be happy again after her best friend moves away. With a controlling and snobby mother, a perfect older sister, and a remote father, Amanda feels lonely and isolated. A series of events, including making a new friend, help Amanda realize that she doesn't have to let others' expectations of her define her life. Smooth writing filled with thoughtful observations on the nature of relationships characterize this quiet story of maturation.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.