BOOK REVIEWS:

Praise for BEANS BAKER, Number Five (Random House):

“A funny, happy ending will leave readers cheering-paired with lively illustrations.”—Horn Book

“Well paced, leading up to the fun tension of the game. Clear, animated drawings capture all the game's excitement. A satisfying read for beginners!”—Book List

Praise for BEANS BAKER BOUNCES BACK (Random House):

“Simple, good-humored story and the colorful illustrations will entertain newly emergent readers!”—Horn Book

"This story is an excellent example that life can be difficult and no matter how hard you try you may not always win. The illustrations are colorful and interesting to look at. There is much action in each scene that keeps the reader amused. Part of the “Step into Reading” series and highly recommended!”—Children's Literature

Praise for BEANS BAKER'S BEST SHOT (Random House):

“The colorful animated drawings show both the exciting game and the friendship, guilt, hurt, and fun. A lively addition to the Step into Reading series, this book isn’t only for sports fans!”—Booklist

“This simply written book introduces several weighty themes: blame, guilt and forgiveness, friendship, and teamwork. Straightforward and satisfying!”—School Library Journal

“Richard Torrey’s story tells of friendship, teamwork, and support no matter what happens to the game plan…it gives positive reinforcement to youngsters ready for ‘reading on your own’.”—Bookloons

Praise for ALMOST (HarperCollins):

“Each lively double-page scenario, in pencil lines and bright colors, shows a child's universal dreams, as well as the warm particulars of one kid's failure, which culminate when Jack almost hits the winning home run, but ducks to avoid the ball at the critical moment. He almost never cries, but when he feels sad, Mom’s warm hug is reassuring. Preschoolers, especially younger siblings, will recognize Jack’s longing for power."—Booklist

“Unfussy illustrations let readers in on the joke: Jack isn't close to doing any of these things yet. Torrey's tale is an apt fit for the when-can-I-do-that? crowd."—Horn Book

"Torrey precisely captures Jack's desperate desire to be bigger and to be able to master the adult world. His facial expressions are spot-on, from Jack's pride as he attempts something new to that instant when the pride changes to an uh-oh moment. This is a sweet, tongue-in-cheek look at growing up that will reassure the youngest sufferers of youth that they are not alone.”—Kirkus Reviews

“In this chipper story, children impatient to step into the shoes of their older siblings or friends will find a kindred spirit in Jack and take comfort in his literal ups and downs. Touching and true to life!”—Publishers Weekly

“…Sure to be a hit at storytime!”—School Library Journal

Praise for WHY? (HarperCollins):

“WHY? gently and humorously explores a child’s daily encounters with this world of wonders, and even suggests a loving answer to the endless questions.”—School Library Journal

“Torrey's affecting portrait of a small boy is made up almost entirely of questions. Painting Jack’s world with gentle colors and softly brushed forms, Torrey's sensitivity brings Jack's feelings home to readers. A perceptive double portrait of an irritating little brother—and the irritating problem of being a little brother.”—Publishers Weekly

“WHY? is just as sweet as in the earlier volume, with his great moony head and little dot eyes, all in the soft, powdery colors of 1950s twin-set sweaters. Torrey allows Jack a whole range of curiosity: His questions are funny, whimsical, and touched by pathos.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Illustrations nicely capture Jack’s diverse emotions. Many kids may long for answers right along with Jack. Youngsters trying to make sense of their worlds will relate to Jack’s curiosity.”—Booklist