Penelope Pig

Each of the four small seasonal books in the Nettlepatch Farm series opens the same way, but for a nod to the time of year: ``It is winter time at Nettlepatch Farm. On the farm live Mr. Potter, Mrs. Potter, and their little daughter Amy,'' along with the animals in the titles. Each simple plot follows the animal through a silly predicament or yearning. Penelope Pig wishes for a life indoors, like that of the family cat, and isn't satisfied until Mr. Potter works out a compromise. Hattie the Goat eats almost anything, including the vegetable garden and the clothes hung out to dry; Charlie the Puppy can't find anyone to play with; Percy the Duck is having trouble learning to fly. The tone seems a bit flat and condescending and the style is choppy, but the illustrations are warm and the simple themes make farm life familiar. Ages 3-7. (June)