Daisy Dawson and the Big Freeze

Gr 2—4—Dr. Dolittle isn't the only one who can talk to animals. Daisy Dawson shares this unique ability to communicate with her furry (or woolly, as the case may be) friends. In this installment in the series, it's been snowing like crazy. Despite the natural beauty, it is dangerous for young, inexperienced animals like Woolverton the lamb. He yearns to explore beyond the confines of his pasture, but ends up on the wrong side of the river, stuck in a thorn bush. Daisy comes to the rescue, though, and finds the lamb through a combination of bravery and guidance from other woodland creatures. Woolverton is returned safely to his mother, and Daisy goes home to enjoy the wintry day in the best way—in a comfy chair by the fireplace, with a mug of hot chocolate and a plate of buttered toast. Daisy is a likable character, and animal lovers will relate to her compassion for the cast of furry creatures. The no-frills language will work well for children who are just starting to read chapter books, and the frequent illustrations add detail and interest. This isn't an essential purchase, but it's a solid addition for libraries that already own the series or those in which animal stories are in high demand.—Amy Holland, Irondequoit Public Library, NY