Gertrude, a Goose on the Loose

Although its title portends feather-flying fun, adventure seekers will be disappointed in this story for beginning readers. When the gate to the yard is left open, Gertrude the goose sets off to explore. But woe is this web-footed traveler, who upon meeting the mailman, the ice-cream man and a chimney sweep, is berated by the refrain, ``Don't intrude, Gertrude! You're a goose on the loose!'' After a skateboarding child chides her as well, Gertrude heads for home. The slight text is negative in tone and lacks both drama and coherence. Difficult words like ``intrude,'' ``akimbo'' and ``peculiar'' seem out of place, and the forced rhymed scheme is unfortunate. Sketchy two-color drawings exhibit occasional touches of whimsy, but do little to lift this lackluster tale. Ages 2-5. (June)