The Giant's Toe

Cole has created an unlikely duo in his latest booka clumsy giant and his troublesome toe. Dressed in baggy pants with suspenders, a floral print shirt and straw hat, Cole's giant resembles a retired W. C. Fields, with bushy eyebrows protruding over a bulbous nose. While hoeing among his cabbages one day, the giant accidentally strikes his foot and suddenly a tiny imp appears, presumably a magical incarnation of his toe. Their acquaintance quickly sours, however, and the giant's revenge is thwarted by the meddlesome toe in a round of comic upsets. Whimsical illustrations animate the story, which will leave readers hoping for further episodes. (4-up)