Krindlekrax

As zany as Ridley's Dakota of the White Flats , this novel by the winner of England's 1991 Smarties Book Prize introduces the inhabitants of Lizard Street, a gaggle of unconventional characters whose lives are intertwined. Thin, redheaded Rushkin Splinter, the epitome of wimpdom, is the protagonist; other cast members include his petite mother, forever offering toast and tea; Mr. Splinter, a woeful ex-zookeeper; kindhearted Corky, the school custodian; and a window-smashing bully named Elvis. As events unfold, Rushkin learns how his parents and most of his neighbors played a part in producing Krindlekrax, a monster that lurks beneath Lizard Street. Determined to avenge past wrongs and save his neighborhood from destruction, Rushkin sets out to tame the beast. By the end of his mission, the lad proves that even a weakling can become a hero. More enjoyable than the novel's rather obvious theme is Ridley's spirited telling. His invention of a young Don Quixote is sure to tickle the fancy of comic-adventure buffs. Ages 8-12. (Mar.)