Rose so wants to get a star in class. But Mrs. Benson hands them out for things like neatness and always raising your hand to speak. That’s not Rose’s style. She’s an artist and a daydreamer. Even when she tries to be neat, she can get carried away when creativity strikes. Worst of all, Mrs. Benson’s class assignment to write thank you notes to Mr. Sullivan, an artist who had visited their class, coincides with the day Rose is to have her desk checked for neatness—her last hope for a star. A surprising and satisfying resolution shows Rose finally getting her sought-after star. It’s not for neatness and likely never will be, but both Rose and Mrs. Benson come to understand that there are many talents that can be rewarded. Jennifer Mann has a pleasing and affable style, in both writing and illustration, and her story will strike a chord with any child who has ever longed for praise and recognition. (Ages 4–7)