A Visit from Dr. Katz

When Marianne has to stay in bed with the flu, what she needs is a visit from Dr. Katztwo catsto pass the time. ""Dr. Katz comes in on eight white paws, and goes two different directions,'' this droll text begins. ``Dr. Katz has long, white whiskers.'' When one cat settles down on her stomach purring, Marianne supposes, ``This must be the Stomach Cure,'' and when the other nibbles her toes, of course this is the Toe Cure. ``Do I have the flu in my toes?'' she asks him. This is inventive fare, rooted in Marianne's imagination, and these cats are perfect companions for any child, whether feverish or in the pink. Watercolors capture the quiet, playful mood; Barrow sharply delineates each catlike move. Ages 5-8. (March)