(3) PS Illustrated by Bob Graham. Jack and Alex find common ground in the sandbox at the playground, even though Jack likes trucks and Alex prefers dolls wearing "pink, sparkly" tutus. With some flexible thinking ("Let's play dolls...that drive trucks"), the two boys play together while remaining true to themselves. Graham skillfully illustrates a diverse cast of characters to support Stott's gentle message about individuality and inclusion.

Reviewer: Maeve Visser Knoth

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Stephen Gilpin. Well acquainted with the punishment, Ben is prepared with many diversions and tasks when sent to his room: composing a birthday list, sorting his baseball cards, and organizing his Screamy Babies collection. Repentance is not a consideration, though a practiced letter of apology is key to an early release. Cartoony illustrations revealing a cluttered, messy room humorously spin this punishment as anything but.

Reviewer: Rebecca Reed Whidden

(4) PS Illustrated by Matt Phelan. A mother reassures her son that she'll always be there, even though he can now do for himself things she used to do for him (tie shoes, pick out clothing, read stories, etc.). The text is adultish, but the illustrations should hold children's attention; loosely drawn, evocative watercolors in muted hues show the boy's push-and-pull between comfort and independence.

Reviewer: Amy Kellman

(3) PS Illustrated by Matt Phelan. Wondering whether his mother loves him all the time, a boy peppers her with questions ("Do you love me when I eat all my peas? Do you love me when I don't?") Reassuringly, she replies in the affirmative ("No matter what you do...I'll always love you"). Watercolor illustrations with plenty of white space show the boy in the midst of good--and bad--behavior.

Reviewer: Martha Sibert