Effie

Effie ``was an ant like hundreds of others--in every way but one. All the others had tiny ant voices. Effie's voice was like thunder.'' Poor Effie merely wants a friend, but even a sociable ``hello'' in her booming voice sends the other insects scrambling. And when they come running back, it's not to see Effie: they're trying to get away from an elephant that, oblivious to the tiny beings below, is about to crush them. Effie's gigantic lung power saves the day. She wins the respect of the other creatures, and finally finds a friend in the gentle elephant. Allinson's simple, straightforward text is complemented perfectly by Reid's ( Have You Seen Birds? ) rollicking plasticine compositions. The layering of the material creates a marvelous textural illusion and--especially in a scene depicting a caterpillar bounding away from Effie's big voice--some hilarious perspectives. Ages 3-6. (Mar.)