In the Driver's Seat

This light, fast-moving ride plants readers squarely behind the wheel and in the foreground of each picture frame. The double-page spreads present the driver's view through the windshield during a high-speed driving lesson that spins out of control. After crashing through a barn and driving into a river, the car ends up joining a race--and of course wins. Haynes's (Sparky's Rainbow Repair) text takes on the frenetic pace (""Yikes! Look out for that cow!/ Mooooo!/ Turn right, right, right! Rrrrrrrrrrrrt"") while boldly outlined cartoon illustrations in turquoise, canary and fuschia feature droll, skewed perspectives (ducks and cows loom suddenly in the windshield as the car continues on its hazard-filled, off-road route). The experience is much like a video game, although the rough black outlines and slapstick touches (like slightly cross-eyed, startled-looking animals) add a visual edge and kick. An amusing foray--not to be tried at home. Ages 2-5. (Oct.)