(4) PS Illustrated by Lynne Avril Cravath. Matthew invents a pet lion to liven up his show-and-tell presentation. When his classmates want to see the lion, Matthew finds a creative solution for admitting the truth. Bright, childlike chalk-pastel and acrylic illustrations support the imaginative mood of the text. Although the ending is pat, the non-didactic tone makes this a good choice for lessons on telling the truth.

Reviewer: Beth L. Meister

(4) 1-3 Illustrated by Adam Gustavson. "Sam wanted a dog," and after he demonstrates the requisite maturity, his parents bring home Dodger for Sam's ninth birthday. What follows is a rather predictable pattern of training, accepting lapses in obedience, and learning from mistakes--for Sam and Dodger both. The ordinary story is given warmth and individuality by the painterly illustrations, rich in texture and the colors of spring.

Reviewer: Roger Sutton