I NEED A SNAKE
by Lynne Jonell
illustrated by Petra Mathers
Putnam;ISBN: 0399231765;$12.99;1998

Robbie needs a snake—now. Mommy says snakes are scary. Mommy says he must wait, but Robbie can’t, so he finds some “snakes” that even Mommy agrees will make good pets.

Suggested for ages 4 - 7
Subjects: Imagination | Mothers

RIDING FREEDOM
by Pam Muñoz Ryan
illustrated by Brian Selznick
ISBN: 059095766X;$15.95;

A lively biographical novel describes the unconventional life of Charlotte Parkhurst, who ran away from an orphanage, disguised herself as a boy, and went out west to become the first woman stagecoach driver.

Suggested for ages 7 - 10
Subjects: Frontier and pioneer life | Historical | Orphans

FIRE, BED & BONE
by Henrietta Branford
Candlewick;ISBN: 0763603384;$16.99;1998

Set in 1381, this is the story of “old dog,” a faithful companion and skilled hunter. Through her keen senses and loyal heart, readers experience the joys and sorrows of life during England’s Peasants’ Revolt.

Suggested for ages 12 - 14
Subjects: Dogs | England | Middle Ages

IF YOU COME SOFTLY
by Jacqueline Woodson
ISBN: 0698118626;$15.99;1998

Kindred spirits, Ellie and Miah find a peaceful closeness in their love for each other. Their only obstacle is the judgment of their families and the world at large because they are different races.

Suggested for ages 13 - 16
Subjects: Interracial | New York (State) | Schools