Penrod Again

At the close of the endearing Penrod's Pants, Griswold Bear is heading off for a long winter snooze. So now that it's spring, Penrod Porcupine is ready to roll up his sleeves and start cleaning. A photo session (without film in the camera), a near-dissolution of the friendship when Penrod moves, plans for home improvement and an early (but timely) Christmas keep the two buddies busy in five easy-to-read stories. Griswold's sorely tried patience and Penrod's blithe good intentions are winningly conveyed in Dyer's watercolors, with their intense hues and tiny, precise details. The further adventures of these roly-poly heroes will be embraced by old friends, or those who pass through this small, glowing world for the first time. Ages 6-9. (September)