Big, Small, Short, Tall

Readers have learned, in a short space of time, to expect humor and boundless energy from Leedy's books. This brightly colored concept book will not disappoint anyone looking for a memorable way to describe opposites. One pair of opposites frames the storya circus of comical animals arrives and departs. In between are hijinks galore: a raccoon is ""first'' in the parade and pig is ``last''; three performing cubs get ``dirty'' and have to get ``clean'' before the show; a ``happy'' juggling act becomes ``sad'' in a hurry when they drop the balls and each other. Not only is the concept beautifully executed, but there seems to be a story on each page: Will that very ``thin'' monkey be able to catch the ``fat'' pig who is about to join him on his trapeze? What happens when a horse going ``over'' a jump is about to land on a small dog cart about to go ``under'' a rail? Fun for all and painlessly educationalunless it hurts to laugh. Ages 3-8. (April)