Cake Girl

Alone again on her birthday, a witch bakes a magical girl out of cake, the demure, yellow-skinned creation clad in an orange princess-like gown and a tiered cake headdress. The witch orders Cake Girl to sing “Happy Birthday,” dance for her and do the housework. “ 'And then,' said the Witch, 'I'll eat you.' ” Cake Girl is understandably worried. When the witch bemoans her lack of friends, Cake Girl has the novel suggestion of being nice to people and offers some suggestions, which the witch takes to with wide-eyed earnestness (“And perhaps you don't have to eat me?” Cake Girl adds). They celebrate the witch's birthday by using her magic for fun, changing their shapes until, at last, the witch turns herself “into a big comfortable armchair and Cake Girl turned into a cat.” Spangly sugar stars and sparkles decorate the pages, as scenes of the witch's gloomy house give way to cupcake flowers and trees garlanded with pretzels and candy. Lucas (Halibut Jackson ) writes and paints with quiet affection for his characters. Watching Cake Girl teach the witch new social skills is a treat. Ages 3–6. (Aug.)