HAPPY BIRTH DAY!
by Robie Harris
illustrated by Michael Emberley
Candlewick;ISBN: 1564024245;$16.99;1996

Soft pastel illustrations and touching text document a baby's very first day of life in a picture book that is perfect for new parents and older siblings.

Suggested for ages 4 - 6
Subjects: Babies | Birthdays | Childbirth

WHEN BIRDS COULD TALK AND BATS COULD SING
by Virginia Hamilton
illustrated by Barry Moser
Scholastic;ISBN: 0590473727;$17.95;1996

Stories about birds and bats from the Southern tradition in colloquial speech that begs to be spoken aloud.

Suggested for ages 7 - 10
Subjects: Bats | Birds | Folklore | South

ECHOES FOR THE EYE: POEMS TO CELEBRATE PATTERNS IN NATURE
by Barbara Juster Esbensen
illustrated by Helen K.  Davie
HarperCollins;ISBN: 0060243988;$14.95;1996

Through poems and paintings, the author and illustrator uncover a kind of natural geometry in the shapes and patterns of the world in which we live. A remarkable blend of words and artistic expression.

Suggested for ages 9 - 12
Subjects: Nature

PARROT IN THE OVEN: MI VIDA
by Victor Martinez
HarperCollins;ISBN: 0060267046;$14.95;1996

Seasoned poet but first-time novelist delights the eye, mind, and heart with his story of chicano Manuel Hernandez and his family. His alcoholic father can't hold on to a job and spends too much time at the pool hall; his mother is constantly cleaning. Wonderfully lyrical, graphic, and powerful.

Suggested for ages 16 - 18
Subjects: Alcoholism | Mexican-Americans