Booklist

Morris, Jennifer E. May I Please Have a Cookie? 2005. 32p. illus. Scholastic, paper, $3.99 (0-439-73819-9).

K-Gr. 1. For kids just starting to read, this cheerful title in the Scholastic Reader series is a combination of very simple sentences and bright, clear, colorful illustrations. Alligator Mommy is baking cookies. Alfie loves cookies, but when he tries to grab one, Mommy tells him to "think of a better way to get a cookie." He comes up with three funny tricks to get his treat, but it isnt until he asks politely that Mommy gives him what he wants--along with a big hug. Kids will like the cozy story and the endearing alligator characters. Theyll also enjoy the "Fluency Fun" page at the back, with a list of rhyming words to read aloud and a list of words to look for in the text. --Hazel Rochman