The Witch Under the Stairs

No one believes Frances when she insists there is a witch living in the basement, but the frightened girl knows she is there, with her wickedly pointed nose and claw-like fingers that reach menacingly through the basement stairs. Frances tries everything--spells and potions, disguises and bribes--to try to drive the nasty creature away, but nothing works. When her favorite stuffed animal falls through the stairs into the basement, Frances must go down into the dreaded darkness to find it. Youngsters will be highly amused at the way she prepares to meet her tormenter. And whether or not they identify with the heroine's fears, all will breathe a sigh of relief at what she doesn't find under the stairs. Smith's ( Noly Poly Rabbit Tail and Me ) finely detailed illustrations brim with humor, and her text is droll and direct. Ages 4-8. (Mar.)