Happy Valentine's Day, Emma!: James Stevenson

That delectably gruesome pair of witches, Dolores and Lavinia, are at it again. This time they intend to ensure that no one, least of all the amiable young witch Emma, has a good time on what they consider the worst day of the yearValentine's Day. (""People sending little cards to say how much they like each other!'' ``Oh, barf me out, Dolores!'') True to form, though, Emma neatly turns the tables, concocting an ingenious, hilariously horrible Valentine's Day surprise that proves too much even for Dolores and Lavinia. Having sent them packing, she finds that the sentiment of the day prevails, as she receives a number of genuine Valentines from her loyal animal friends. High-spirited hijinks, an irresistibly funny battle of wits and dialogue that crackles, all within the framework of Stevenson's exuberant illustrations. Ages 5-8. (October)