K-Gr 2-The popular pig returns in a new series of adventures. The three short chapters revolve around familiar rites of spring: cleaning, shopping for a new bicycle, and sleeping in a tent in the backyard. Here, of course, each activity ends with the usual Poppleton twist. His attempts to clear his house of clutter bring more items in; too many choices at the bike shop overwhelm him and he decides he can walk or run about town; and after a wakeful night in the tent, he sleeps all day. The text is just right for beginning readers and the lively illustrations offer plenty of visual clues and a touch of the absurd humor that appeals to this set. An irresistible addition.-Maura Bresnahan, Shawsheen School, Andover, MA

Poppleton fans will enjoy this latest installment, in which Poppleton the pig attempts to rid his house of "things" during a fit of spring cleaning (but simply ends up trading unwanted belongings with a friend), tries to buy a bicycle (but is daunted by the many choices), and then camps out in his own back yard (even though his friends think he's being silly). Teague's illustrations add warmth and brightness to Rylant's lively, easy-to-read text.