Annie Bananie

Highlights of a unique friendship are recalled by a small girl whose best buddy Annie is moving away. Their exploits are told in a series of comic scenes drawn with splashy aplombtogether they share a bubble bath, grimace through a scary 3-D movie, munch cookies beneath the bedcovers. And the reader understands what it's like to say goodbye to someone you loveespecially someone as charismatic as Annie, whose funky pink sunglasses and pet porcupine accompany her everywhere. It's a welcome first effort by both author and illustrator, who have succeeded in turning an ordinary story into something special. Ages 4-8. (June)