GOOSE
by Molly Bang
Scholastic;ISBN: 0590890050;$11;1996

In a new twist on the ugly duckling story, a goose egg hatches in a woodchuck's den, and the gosling is brought up by a loving family. An economically told story about belonging, illustrated with carefully framed paintings.

Suggested for ages 4 - 6
Subjects: Geese | Identity

THE STORY OF LITTLE BABAJI
by Helen Bannerman
illustrated by Fred Marcellino
HarperCollins;ISBN: 0062050648;$14.95;1996

A clever boy confronts a parade of greedy tigers in this newly illustrated retelling of the "Little Black Sambo" story set in India.

Suggested for ages 3 - 6
Subjects: India

GOING HOME
by Eve Bunting
illustrated by David Diaz
HarperCollins;ISBN: 0060262966;$16;1996

Authentic Mexican illustrations mesh perfectly with story. Carlos, his sister, and parents, who are Mexican laborers in the United States, return to Mexico to celebrate Christmas. The children begin to realize that home is where the heart is.

Suggested for ages 5 - 7
Subjects: Holidays | Mexicans | Migrant Labor

ANIMAL CRACKERS: A DELECTABLE COLLECTION OF PICTURES, POEMS, SONGS, AND LULLABIES FOR THE VERY YOUNG
illustrated by Jane Dyer
Little, Brown;ISBN: 0316197661;$18;1996

Winsome watercolors charm the eye in this delightful mix of old and sure-to-become favorites for family sharing.

Suggested for up to age 5
Subjects: Lullabies | Nursery Rhymes