Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers

Summary:  A bear finds a pick-up truck filled with berries, eats them all, then promptly falls asleep.  He wakes up in the city, where he smells interesting smells, finds fun places to climb and play, and eventually discovers a sandwich that he eats.  Caught in the act by a pack of dogs, he runs away, finds a boat, and makes the trip back to his forest home.  On the last page, the reader discovers who has been telling the story, throwing an element of doubt into the whole tale.

Pros:  Kindergarteners and first graders would love this story.  When you find out who is telling the story at the end, this could become a good example of persuasive writing.

Cons:  The illustrations were colorful and fun, but a little blurry for my middle-aged eyes.

Published by Roaring Brook Press

Summary:  A nameless girl has an adventure in every season.  On a snowy day in “Winter Wear”, she takes so long to bundle up, that the snow has melted by the time she gets outside.  “Spring Splendor” includes a song and dance by the girl and her dog; they even find a way to include their grumpy sleeping cat.  In “Summer Sidewalks”, the girl’s hippo friend finds an innovative way to cool her off that involves a trip to the freezer.  Finally, in “Fall Foliage”, the girl tells the story of changing leaves to her tree friend.

Pros:  Nick Bruel has many fans from his “Bad Kitty” series, and they are sure to add this book to their list of favorites.  The cartoon illustrations are bright and playful, and there is a terrific cast of characters.  Kids will laugh out loud at the talking can of beans and spitting hippo.

Cons:  The four-panel layout on some of the pages make the pictures a little small for group read-alouds.