Snowsong Whistling

The first brisk breeze of winter--a possible ``snowsong whistling''--invigorates this poem about the approaching season. Crackling verse celebrates autumn with a series of lively images: ``Pumpkins plumping / Bluegills jumping / Apples thumping / Sweet cider pumping.'' Some lines strain to meet a rhyme scheme, resulting in a few phrases that may need to be explained to younger readers (``Scarecrow faking,'' ``Groundhog holing''). The spirited rhythm is nonetheless infectious. Kleven's zippy multimedia collages are splashed with vibrant swatches of colors and patterns, and framed by several delicately designed borders. Joyous, brightly clad children dot backgrounds sprinkled with leaves and snowflakes to create a kaleidoscope of activity. Even the staunchest beach lovers may be tempted to reevaluate cool weather. Ages 3-7. (Oct.)