Sandbox

In the latest addition to Wells's Baby Max and Ruby series, the siblings spend some inventive time in the sandbox. "Pat, pat! Dig, dig! This is what we need.... Bubbles, berries, puddle water, a bag of birdseed." Readers can take part by feeling the textured sand and birdseed that the duo adds to the sandbox "batter," which eventually results in "a dozen muffins and a blueberry pie." A pleasant ode to creativity and creation. Also available: Birthday. Up to age 2. (May)