cover image Hocus Pocus

Hocus Pocus

Julie Lacome. Tambourine Books, $11.95 (0pp) ISBN 978-0-688-10158-9

These graphically vibrant books by newcomer Lacome combine the fun of pop-ups with the challenge of a guessing game. Using circus imagery in her first title, Lacome shows a clown and his energetic dancing pup performing such feats as jumping through a hoop and riding a unicycle. Hocus Pocus features a handsome white rabbit as magician, complete with wand, card tricks and a coat of many pockets. Each spread poses a simple question (``What does the magician have up his sleeve?''); manipulation of a flap, tab or similar construction reveals the answer. Pastel backgrounds of stars, zigzags or the word ``abracadabra'' further enliven the boldly hued pages. Youngsters will delight in these interactive glimpses of theatrical whimsy. Ages 2-up. (May)