Elisa Michaels, Bigger & Better (Riverside Kids)
Grade 1-3--Elisa and company return in this appealing chapter book that describes the trials, adventures, and good times experienced by the second grader. Through her interactions with friends and family, she learns about caring, sharing, and taking responsibility. From her patient and loving parents to her slightly domineering older brother, Russell, to her adorable younger brother, Marshall, all of the characters are likable and realistically drawn. Elisa's special relationship with her grandmother, who lives far away, is eloquently expressed when the two share breakfast together over the telephone. Other scenes deal with a last-minute and less-than-perfect baby-sitter who ignores Marshall and eats all of the snacks, and the unexpected results when Elisa is allowed to eat only chocolate for an entire day. Filled with moments of humor and small revelations, the writing is clear and inviting. Each chapter focuses on a particular scenario and reads like a complete story. The black-and-white sketches capture the essence of the events and the characters.--Leanna Manna, Villa Maria College, Buffalo, NYCopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.