cover image Natalie Underneath

Natalie Underneath

Betsy James. Dutton Books, $12.95 (32pp) ISBN 978-0-525-44591-3

In this second book about Natalie, children will enjoy sharing this resourceful youngster's special ``underneath'' places: under the table, under the bathwater, under the porch where the spiders are. Natalie and baby brother Thomas joyfully adopt all the funny faces and positions of childhood as they romp with Dad from breakfast to bedtime, where, typically, Dad is asleep while Natalie stays awake. James's bright crayon colors are the perfect medium for this small, intimate book. It's a good choice for preschoolers, who will enjoy Natalie's sly tricks, and for the very young, who may identify with mischievous Thomas. Ages 3-7. (May)