How Many Days to My Birthday?

The concept of time and how it seems to lag for a boy awaiting his birthday forms the theme of Clarke's ( Eddie and Teddy ) slight but entertaining tale. Danny can't even remember when he last had a birthday and all the fabulous experiences that go with that special event. He jealously eyes the girl next door, who has ``already had six !'' Even the cat--comically portrayed curled up in a blanket in front of the TV, remote control in paw--has had 16 birthdays. Mother makes a wall chart to keep track of the passing days; Danny sends out invitations, dreams of presents and has trouble sleeping. The party itself, depicted wordlessly in comic-book form, is a happy climax to the book's somewhat attenuated focus. Brightly hued, frolicsome pictures add to the fun. Ages 4-up. (Oct.)