Red Day, Green Day

Just when it seemed that no author/illustrator team could possibly come up with an effective variation on the color concept book, Kunhardt ( Pat the Cat ) and Hafner have created a winner. Most little ones would love a teacher like Mrs. Halsey, who, putting a new spin on the familiar ``show and tell'' routine, conducts a weekly series of color-coordinated days. Focusing on young Andrew, Kunhardt takes the reader through all the colors of the rainbow in succession from red through purple, and effortlessly documents the quintessential kindergartner's response to such a variegated challenge as finding something orange or blue to share with his classmakes. Hafner uses a fanciful mix of pen and ink brightened by glowing watercolors to perfectly capture and celebrate the exciting dailiness of childhood. Ages 3-up. (May)