Spring means babies on Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa’s farm. First there’s the birth of Sweety-Pie’s calf in the middle of the night. Then there’s the gift of a puppy from their friend Jenny (although Cocoa was hoping for peppermint). Finally, there’s five owlets up in the hayloft. Erica Silverman continues to delight in the latest volume featuring the memorable interactions between wise young Kate and her self-centered horse, who never fails to reveal a kind heart. Silverman develops much of the droll humor through the dialogue between Kate and Cocoa, while playful language and terrific pacing add to the lively storytelling. Betsy Lewin’s watercolor illustrations bring additional warmth and charm to this winning volume. (Ages 4–8)