What's Inside?: 9

As every parent knows, preschoolers are endlessly fascinated by the contents of cabinets, boxes and bags of all kinds. What's Inside? takes them on explorations of some favorite containers: a dresser drawer, a toy chest, a diaper bag, a kitchen cupboard, a shopping bag, picnic basket, beach bag and purse. One page of each handsomely designed, functional spread captures a toddler in a spontaneous moment--triumphantly holding cotton swabs aloft; experimenting with Mommy's lipstick. The facing page displays the clearly arranged and labeled contents of each object. In one example, a boy is shown happily pulling playthings from a toy box; opposite are a toy telephone, puzzle, duck, teddy bears and train. The photographs are outstanding--bright yet delicate, as though shot in filtered daylight. Toddlers will find this a boost to one of their favorite pastimes--discovering the names of familiar objects. Ages 1-5. (Oct.)