Nicky 1-2-3 CL

Nicky, a bouncy baby sporting three front teeth, stars in these energetic concept books that fit nicely into a niche between simpler board books and books with more advanced toddler subjects. In the first title, sparse, large-faced text playfully asks where Nicky is, as the tyke is shown peeking out from behind toys, under clothes and over his mother's shoulder. The second title depicts Nicky numbering familiar objects to the refrain ``count with me one two three!'' Falwell's debut books feature paper cutout/collage art in strong colors (often just a shade lighter than the primaries) that work well against ample white space. The thick, sturdy pages should endure repeated perusals by delighted tots. Ages 2 mos.-2 yrs. (Apr.)