Raves: Cool new media for March

Roly Poly Pangolin Ages 2–4

Roly Poly Pangolin by Anna Dewdny. A pangolin, in case you didn’t know, is a scaly anteater — endangered! — that spends most of the day rolled up in a ball. Some little kids can relate, and they’ll especially love this charming story about a critter that’s scared of new experiences . . . until he meets another creature rolled up in a ball and makes a new friend. $16.99; Penguin. Released March 9.

I Can Be Anything! Ages 4–8

I Can Be Anything! by Jerry Spinelli; illustrated by Jimmy Liao. What do you want to be? How about a paper-airplane folder or a puddle stomper? Or apple chomper? Little ones get silly career ideas — along with encouragement to dream silly dreams — from the Newbery Medal winner. $17.99; Little Brown. Released March 17.

Mirror, Mirror

Ages 8–12

Mirror Mirror: A Book of Reversible Verse by Marilyn Singer; illustrated by Josee Massee. Not content to be “just” a poet, Singer has invented a new type of poetry — reversos — which have one meaning when read top to bottom, another when read bottom to top. These ain’t your grandma’s fairy tales! Inventive, colorful and effective in showing that there are two sides to every story. $16.99; Dutton. Released March 4.

The Big Book of Gross Stuff by Bart King. The Portland dad who really “gets” kids brings it again, this time with a side of slime. The book is full of tween-boy appeal, with info like “World’s Most Disgusting Jobs” (whale feces researcher?), a gross quiz and loads more. Even if you don’t buy the book, visit King’s Web site (ultragross.blogspot.com); it’s a treasure trove o’ grossness. Fascinating fun! $19.99; Gibbs Smith. Released March 1.

— Kristen Russell Dobson

GIVEAWAYS

Captain Fantastic
“Inspired . . . whimsical . . .” thus sayeth the raves for The Fantastic Mr. Fox, Wes Anderson’s take on Roald Dahl’s book. With voices by George Clooney and Meryl Streep, and a sweet storyline about an irresponsible fox who learns a lesson. $29.95; 20th Century Fox. Released March 23.

BabyHawk baby carrier Hawk-a-bye baby
Here’s a comfy new baby carrier that lets you choose your own fabrics and features! From edgy punk to gorgeous florals, there are dozens of choices to make a BabyHawk that’s totally you. Hey, if you’re wearing it, it might as well be chic! Newborn–40 pounds. From $80; BabyHawk.