In these latest books in this series, our titular hero Lola explores basketball and pet ownership. In Lola Joins the Team, Lola must learn how to overcome her insecurity about being new to the sport and making mistakes in front of the other, more experienced players. In Lola's Perfect Pet, Lola is jealous when her friends get new pets, and she doesn't. She uses her newly learned persuasive writing techniques to try to convince her parents that she can take care of an animal. With occasional full-color ­illustrations and well-spaced, medium-print paragraphs throughout, these cheerful chapter books are ideal for newly confident chapter book readers. Spanish words and phrases sprinkled throughout lend authenticity to the story, as Lola's family is from Guatemala (like the author). Additional elements in each text enhance the story, including a Spanish and English glossary, facts about Guatemala, discussion questions, writing prompts, a recipe, and more. VERDICT Recommended for purchase where diverse chapter books are needed.