Something's Fishy

In this quietly beguiling story by the author of ``Who Are You? , '' a boy and his dog visit a fishing hole that boasts an unusual occupant: a large octopus named Gus. With his very first cast, Roy hooks ``something big!'' When he reels in the line, the young angler pulls up a table. Subsequent catches yield two chairs, two china plates, two matching cups and a tangle of silverware. After setting the table with his haul, the boy fills the plates with spaghetti and meatballs from a picnic basket and then summons his friend from the deep--``Time for lunch, Gus.'' The octopus appears carrying a bag from which he removes two napkins, and the friends raise their cups in a cheerful toast. The blend of bucolic and playful elements in Cocca-Leffler's ( Wednesday Is Spaghetti Day ) energetic gouache and colored pencil illustrations makes this atypical expedition all the more delectable. Especially engaging are the expressions and antics of Roy's amiable dog. Ages 3-6. (Apr.)