Mag the Magnificent

Gackenbach's picture books always appeal strongly to small children because they sense his implicit understanding of their feelings and needs. In this story, a little boy tells about the magical adventures generated by his Indian suit. On a day when he's wearing the full regalia, he hears a voice saying, ""Draw me on your wall!'' The boy obeys, bringing to life a ``magnificent monster'' in his room. Called Mag for short, the big playmate comes off the wall and joins his friend in terrific exploits. At the supermarket, Mag eats all the asparagus so the narrator will never have to eat another spear of the hated stuff. Mag transforms a bullying girl into a moose, as another favor to the boy: she'll never push him around again. Everything is wonderful until Mother orders the child to wash ``that thing'' off the wall. He obeys but assures the monster he has a secret plan for bringing him back. The boldly colored pictures jump with vigor and fun. (58)