Eggs for Tea

Like hybrids of Jim Henson and Salvador Dali, the zany, zonked-out creatures in these Little Monster books defy description. Their slightly skewed antics are consistently engaging, although--in the first book, at least--each giggle may be tinged with alarm. ``Five little monsters have a pet. It hasn't had its supper yet.'' Its owners attempt to sate the ravenous creature, which resembles a hot-pink-spotted chameleon, with peas, cheese, a stew and shampoo. The little guy rapidly becomes a big guy, and the shapes of his comestibles are comically apparent in his body. In the end, this ingrate may be about to bite--perhaps devour--the hands that feed him. Minus the menace, the second book stars a bug-eyed, yellow-billed thing that snoozes away as another affable assortment of monsters makes short work of six eggs. (``He poaches one and has it for his tea and that leaves four for you and me.'') Though these purport to be counting books--and their small, elongated size makes them ideal for little hands--they will be chiefly appreciated as purveyors of hilarity for youngsters and grownups alike. Known for the unusual and the unexpected, Pienkowski has not disappointed his many admirers. Ages 4-8. (Oct.)