Simple yet poetic text is thoroughly complimented by Chris Raschka's exceptional illustrations in this celebration of the moods, emotions, attitudes, actions, and energy of boyhood.





17. I WANT TO BE A COWGIRL
By Jeanne Willis
Illustrated by Tony Ross
Henry Holt, $15.95, ISBN: 0805069976

For those that long for the open range, this funny, delightful look at the fantasy of one young big-city girl shouldn't be missed; superb illustrations accompany wonderful rhyming text. Not surprisingly, it's a Parents' Choice Award-winner.





18. KEATS'S NEIGHBORHOOD: AN EZRA JACK KEATS TREASURY
By Ezra Jack Keats
Viking, $25.00, ISBN: 0670035866

Exceptional and ageless stories (THE SNOWY DAY; PETER'S CHAIR AND 8 MORE) gathered in one volume from one of America's greatest children's authors and illustrators-sure to be read over and over, then passed on to the next generation.





19. THINGS THAT SOMETIMES HAPPEN: VERY SHORT STORIES FOR LITTLE LISTENERS
By Avi
Illustrated by Marjorie Priceman
Atheneum, $16.95, ISBN: 0689839146

Nine fanciful stories to read aloud with a child that include talking cats, a sad crayon, an ice cream cone that begs to be eaten, and more.