Sheep on a Ship

The team that delivered the winning and funny Sheep in a Jeep have joined forces again for another irresistible trip in rhyme. The sheep are depicted as pirates, lulled to sleep on a calm green sea, but are awakened as ``Dark clouds form / a sudden storm.'' The boat pitches as ``Winds whip. / Sails rip. / Sheep can't sail / their sagging ship.'' Sheep abandon ship for a raft, dragging their treasure chest along, and drift until ``Land ho! / Not far to go.'' When the dripping sheep finally reach the dock they are ``glad to end their trip.'' The spare text is easily mastered by the beginning reader, while adults reading this aloud will appreciate the tongue-twisters and rollicking rhymes. Apple's softly shaded colored pencil drawings add just the right touch of whimsy. Readers will hear the call of the sea, and wish for another adventure--soon. Ages 2-5. (Mar.)