July is a Mad Mosquito

Twelve diverse poems characterize the months of the year in this energetic picture book. A spread is devoted to each month; about three-fourths of the spread features Hall's (see Shanty Boat , reviewed above) zippy full-color collagraphs while the text claims the remaining space. Lewis's imagery reflects the various seasons--an April window pane is ``blue-rinsed with rain''; children ``swarm / like fish to school'' in September. In places where the language is occasionally strained, ``Safely under / The weather, Mole /Sleeps at his subway stop,'' Hall's literal interpretations should clear up any confusion. Her mottled palette alternates between warm and cool hues, matching the weather conditions depicted in the poem. A pleasant, though not particularly innovative, look at the calendar. Ages 7-10. (Apr . )