Frog Medicine

Elmo Freem, star of The Trouble with the Johnsons and Moog-Moog, Space Barber , is back, and in yet another fix. The problem now is a pesky book report that has him in a dither--and sprouting frog feet to boot. With his cat Leon in tow, Elmo is whisked to Frogtown, where Dr. Frank Galoof, author of a book called Frog Medicine (the book report tome, naturally), counsels him regarding his condition, treats him to dinner at a swampy local restaurant and sends him on his way. Although this new tale doesn't pack as much punch as Moog-Moog , and the plot seems slightly contrived, it's still a diverting outing. Teague again demonstrates his knack for dealing with the kinds of predicaments that loom large on children's horizons in a fresh and funny way. His brash, arresting images are enhanced by scrupulous attention to fine points: witness the gradual transformation of Elmo's surroundings as his metamorphosis begins, such as the lilypad wallpaper that appears in the bathroom when he first discovers his alarming new feet. Ages 6-9. (Sept.)