Gr 13 This fourth book in the "Lolo" series packs a delightful mix of ventures a young girl might typically experience. Divided into four stories, this early chapter reader begins with Lolo wanting to be the star of the school play, the eagle! Unfortunately, Lolo must learn to deal with disappointment more than once, as she also struggles with self-image issues and wanting to look like everyone else around her. It isn't until a special guest visits her Soweto school that Lolo learns beauty is about what's on the inside. Lolo's mother begins to date, and Lolo is pretty certain she won't like this new man in their life, until she meets him. The book rounds out with Lolo learning about conservation and finding new ways to recycle. Black-and-white pictures cover more than half of nearly every page, with some pages containing only illustrations. Lolo is Black, as are many of the other characters in the story. VERDICT A beautiful addition to the series, and a worthy addition to library shelves. Lolo is an inspiration and a wonderful portrayal of little girls everywhere. Tracy Cronce

The lighthearted and loving Lolo returns in the fourth book in the series.Lolo, a charming little Black girl from South Africa sporting Afro-textured hairstyles, is back for more tales also featuring her mama, Sisi, and Gogo. In the first chapter, "Lolo and the Eagle," Lolo misses an opportunity to audition for the role of the eagle in her class play when she becomes sick. Her classmate Dana Rose, who "could do graceful leaps and land as softly as a feather," earns the part, but when Dana Rose misses a leap during the performance, Lolo finds a way to save the play. In "Lolo and the Teen Queen," Lolo learns about the importance of inner beauty. In "Lolo's First Date," Lolo feels angry and ignored when her mother prepares to go out with her co-worker Sam. "Lolo's Recycled Christmas Tree" finds Lolo and Sam making and selling Christmas trees in the market so that Lolo can buy presents for her loved ones. Readers will relate to Lolo and her bouts of jealousy and insecurity as well as the warmth and love of her family. Daly's whimsical illustrations of Lolo and her loved ones grace each page, making for a fun and quick read. Gogo and Sisi are Black; Sam is White.True to form, the latest in this series is full of heart and hope. (Chapter book. 5-8)