BREAD AND JAM FOR FRANCES by Russell Hoban, illustrated by Lillian Hoban (HarperCollins; $4.95 in paperback) is an absolutely charming book that's a must read for every child and parent. Eventually, Frances will eat something besides bread and jam, but it takes some cleverness and patience on the part of her parents.

THE DUMPLING COOKBOOK by Maria Polushkin (Workman Publishing, $6.95 paperback) has a number of bite-size treats that will appeal to kids and make excellent lunch box fare. Our empanadas are adapted from a recipe found here.

THE BROWN BAG COOKBOOK by Sara Sloan (Williamson Publishing, $9.95 paperback) is a nutrition-minded guide to sugarless and energy-packed lunch box treats. There are helpful kid-approval ratings with each recipe.

THE PENNY WHISTLE LUNCH BOX BOOK by Meredith Brokaw and Annie Gilbar (a Fireside Book, Simon Schuster, $11 paperback), a wealth of creative information, has recipes for everything from soup to nuts.