Reindeer

This equally likable and informative encore to Dragonflies and Eagles introduces children to the real Rudolphs of the world. The Santa connection guarantees some built-in interest, and the Bernhards energetically fan this spark. Each page is dynamic and pleasingly unique. Durga Bernhard's gouaches incorporate folk elements and a contemporary sense of color and composition. Emery Bernhard's text supplements the requisite Reindeer 101 info (``In North America, reindeer have been given the name caribou'') with such well-researched nuggets as ``A deer polishes its hardened, bony antlers by rubbing them against branches and bushes'' and ``As the reindeer walk, the bones in their feet make a loud clacking noise.'' Thorough, yet mindful of its young audience, this title further confirms the Bernards' niche on the natural-history shelf. Ages 5-8. (Sept.)