Paper Princess

A paper doll literally takes a flight of fancy in this pretty picture book about creativity. When a girl draws and cuts out a beautiful princess with a dress ``like a forest'' and socks ``like starry skies'' and ``shoes like watermelons,'' she believes she has designed the perfect friend. But the wind gets hold of this treasure and whisks her on a far-flung adventure. With the help of a blue jay and a bit of luck, the paper princess finds her way back home and is reunited with her inventive creator. Kleven's story and art work in tandem to encourage entrance to the wide-open world of self-expression. Her mixed-media collages are a kaleidoscope of color and activity, encompassing a vast, multiracial cast of happy people. Aerial perspectives give readers a sense of being on the carnival Ferris wheel or in flight with a bird. Youngsters will no doubt be inspired to fire up their crayons, markers and paints after this outing. Ages 4-8. (May)