Cockatoos

A daft professor and his frustrated cockatoos take part in a zany game of hide-and-seek sure to tickle sharp-eyed readers. Professor Dupont never strays from his regimented daily routine--from tying his tie to adjusting his glasses to greeting his pets by saying ``Good morning, my fine feathered friends!'' Deciding they will ``go crazy if they had to listen to the same words once again,'' the birds take refuge in various rooms in the house to teach their owner a lesson. Kids will love spotting the colorful plumage behind every corner and cushion--easily visible to everyone but the hapless professor, who stumbles about in humorous ignorance searching for his avian companions. (The birds' frantic expressions as they desperately attempt to remain hidden are positively smashing.) Convinced their message has been delivered, the satisfied birds are back on their branches the next morning, only to discover that ``Some people never learn.'' Blake's characteristically effusive drawings enhance the silliness of this thoroughly engaging ditty. Ages 4-8. (Sept.)