Zoomrimes: Poems about Things That Go

Though not quite as dazzling as these collaborators' Roomrimes , this clever, well-crafted volume is notable for the late Cassedy's rich invention and mischievousness. Arranged from Ark to Zeppelin with a verse for each letter of the alphabet, the entries are by turns thoughtful, funny and lyrical--a linguistic treat for those used to plainer fare. The many virtues of the ``Camel,'' for example, include ``four-leg drive. Hauls / anything: travelers, sleeping bags, frankincense, myrrh. / Overheats / never.'' A ``Kayak'' is a ``palindrome / afloat,'' and a ``Night Train'' comes ``carrying night. / Stowed into packing crates, / corked into jars, / is a glimmer of light: / the glow of the moon, / the glisten of stars.'' Chessare's lighthearted black-and-white drawings, though not as original as the poems, function as agreeable complements to the verse. In a flight of particular fancy, the letter Q becomes a ``Queue'' that marches down one side of the page until a ``step / out / of / line'' moves the text to another column. Cassedy's technical proficiency and simple language will delight lovers of puns and wordplay. Ages 8-12. (Apr.)