Croco'nile

Gerrard's (Sir Cedric; A Pocket Full of Posies) 10th picture book is an innovative amalgam of ancient history lesson, introduction to hieroglyphics and fanciful story. Combined with the artist's intricate illustrations, at once playful and representative of the culture and artifacts of ancient Egypt, these diverse elements add up to an altogether diverting book. In breezy, rhymed verse, Gerrard tells how a brother and sister-Hamut and Nekatu-find a crocodile by the Nile. Hamut and Nekatu are possessed of great talents: he is an accomplished sculptor and she an artist whose murals bring gasps of admiration. The two draw the attention of the king and queen, as well as of villains who kidnap the children and set sail for foreign parts, where they intend to sell the children as skilled slaves. But an old pal intercedes, and ``They traveled home in style,/ Though not by boat or chariot,/ but by first-class crocodile.'' As lagniappe, the jacket (as well as a cut-out bookmark) contains a key to decode 10 hieroglyphic messages hidden in the book's art. Ages 5-8. (Sept.)