Coaching Ms. Parker

When Ms. Parker learns she must play in the annual baseball game between the faculty and the sixth graders, she panics. But her fourth-grade students--led by star player Mike--insist on coaching her in the sport. Ms. Parker, in turn, goes out of her way to offer encouragement to Mike, who can't seem to get excited about reading. The caring teacher neatly condenses the novel's message when she describes the school as ``a two-way street. We trust and help each other here.'' In that spirit, Mike loans Ms. Parker his beloved glove for the big game, and she does her young trainers proud. This first children's book by Heymsfeld, a reading teacher who was recruited to play in similar ball games, clearly demonstrates a deep knowledge of and affection for kids. Ending on a jubilant note, this lively saga will be a hit with Little Leaguers of both sexes--even those who share Mike's hesitation about reading. O'Conor's pert drawings evince an appropriately sportive spirit. Ages 8-10. ( Apr. )