Ginger Jumps

``For as long as Ginger could remember, the circus had been her home.'' But it isn't enough for this pooch, who craves love--not the limelight--and longs for what she has only heard about: ``dogs that lived with children and their families.'' Thus begins Ginger's dream: she knows that somewhere there is a little girl on whom she can lavish her boundless puppy affection. (Ginger's quest may remind readers of Charlie Brown's inamorata, the Little Red-Haired Girl.) Ginger learns basic performing tricks, but is constantly snubbed by poodle star Prunella, a doggie diva of the first water. Reminiscent of circus posters, Ernst's jumbo, effervescent paintings occupy the majority of each page. Her text is equally captivating; there has seldom been a more personable canine in or out of a circus tent. In a heartwarming ending, Ginger gets it all: a spectacular new career, a family and--from an unexpected source--a new friend. Reflecting the happiness of readers everywhere, Ginger ``laughed a dog laugh that only the little girl could hear.'' Ages 3-7. (Apr.)