First Words and Pictures

This engagingly busy, paper-over-board volume is divided into such thematic sections as ``In the Backyard,'' ``Cooking'' and ``Bedtime.'' Each opens with a full-page picture setting the scene, followed by spot art of various objects found in the larger drawing. An intelligent twist distinguishes Salt's presentation from most word books. Underneath each of Hawksley's colorful, clearly rendered images of an individual item (sweater, truck, teddy bear) is a second picture showing a child using the object, which adds welcome action to each page. Salt's numerous captions will spark youngsters' imaginations. For example, underneath a picture of a child in a tub plucking a figure from a toy boat, the words read: ``This sailor is really a pirate.'' Although there are several spots in which this English import could have been Americanized better (a depiction of a dollar bill bears little resemblance to actual currency), this is an innovative, reasonably priced word book. Ages 1-5. (Dec.)