Happy Birthday, Dolores

The youngest star of Faye and Dolores (and the human member of Duncan and Dolores ) celebrates her birthday in vivid watercolors and spirited spreads that are true to the good humor found in the first two books. Dolores's birthday party has all the right touches--a portrait of her cat on the cake, prizes for game-winners (she is shocked to discover that hostesses don't get prizes, but they do get to keep all the presents) and an awkward thank you to the three people who each gave her a Talking-Beanie-Bunny. Her cat, Duncan, spoils the cake but can't spoil the day; Samuels delivers a child's vision of the perfect party, right down to the last wish: that every day could be a birthday. Ages 3-6. (Sept.)