Age 00-04. 4 Stars. In this pleasant sequel to The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Eric Carle introduces a spider who, carried by the wind, lands on a fence post and begins to spin her web… The spider’s example of steady, goal-oriented and satisfying work is a good model for children who need to grow up into productive adults.

Age 04-08. 4 Stars. This is another of Spier’s wonderful wordless books. In it, the two Noonan children spend a pleasant summer afternoon cloudgazing, showing each other what shapes they see in the clouds.

Age 00-04. 4 Stars. Donald Crews gives a childs-eye view of the fair, capturing well the sense of noisy excitement and fun that pervades the event.

Age 04-08. 4 Stars. There are a many well-written, poorly illustrated Bible storybooks, and even more well-illustrated versions which drift from the original meaning of the biblical text. Ruth Bell Graham’s Christmas Bible storybook, illustrated by award-winning artist Richard Jesse Watson, is visually one of the best Bible picture books I have seen, while remaining close to the original text of the Bible.

Age 04-08. 5 Stars. Peter Spier has again brought us an enthralling rendition of a beloved Bible story.

Age 04-08. Charlotte and K.Y. Craft have produced a beautiful rendition of King Midas and the Golden Touch.

Age 00-04. 4 Stars. The sheep are back in a new installment of hilarious bumbling humor, as they enter a restaurant… It allows for plenty of humor, while giving a sideways lesson in courtesy and manners.

Age 04-08. 5 Stars. Susan Hunt, best known for her Christian ministry to women, has written a wonderful narrative exploration of Psalm 23.

Age 04-08. 5 Stars. Hans Christian Anderson’s story tells of a swan hatched into a family of ducks, who lives his life trying to fit into a situation where he doesn’t belong… Jerry Pinkney’s adaptation brings the story into a visual splendor, with lushly detailed watercolor paintings full of drama and life.

Age 04-08. 5 Stars. Peter Spier’s book presents the United States Constitution in a format that is particularly attractive to young people.