MICE by Rose Fyleman with illustrations by Lois Ehlert. Beach Lane, 2012.

Poetic text is presented one line per double page spread. Collage illustrations against a stark black background make the white type face and the illustrations using various fabrics, objects stand out nicely. Pair with other Ehlert texts, especially those concept books about shape and color.

TWO LITTLE MONKEYS by Mem Fox with illustrations by Jill Barton. beach Lane, 2012.

The monkeys are enjoying a carefree day when something alarms them. Cheeky and Chee fell into the trees for cover. Simple verse and watercolor illustrations underscore the happy cavorting of the animals.

MARCO GOES TO SCHOOL by Roz Chast. Atheneum, 2012.

It is time for Marco the parrot to head off to school. He is worried about what he will encounter in terms of classmates and experiences. Marco's imagination sometimes causes him to miss out on things happening around him. But once he makes a new friend, all is well.

ZORRO GETS AN OUTFIT by Carter Goodrich. Simon & Schuster, 2012.

When Zorro is given a new outfit by his owners, he is embarrassed to say the least. A cape and mask, really? But when he meets another costumed dog in the park, suddenly Zorro's feelings about his outfit change.