Cyndy Szekeres' I Love My Busy Book

Reminiscent of the work of the late Richard Scarry (to whom Szekeres gives a nod on her dedication page), this roundup of brief diversions for preschoolers sounds a familiar chord. Its oversized spreads are indisputably ""busy,"" teeming with frolicking, cuter-than-cute animal characters clad in a festive array of outfits and accessories, from ballet shoes to propeller-topped beanies. The author introduces a smattering of concepts, including the alphabet, counting, opposites, animal sounds, shapes, colors, feelings and good manners. Though her approach lacks novelty, the amusements Szekeres offers nicely span the intended audience: youngest browsers can use this as a word book and those beginning to sound out words can practice their reading skills. Parents may eventually tire of the occasionally forced rhyme and incessant alliteration, yet little ones might indeed ""love"" the revved-up but cuddly cast of anthropomorphized critters. Ages 2-6. (Mar.)