In this tale introducing two young rats, Jennings (Into My Mother's Arms) portrays a familiar childhood dilemma with humor and zip. Priscilla lives just across the gutter from her best friend, Rosy. After working hard all week, combing restaurants for scraps of food "and scaring lots of people," the two are looking forward to their day off. Priscilla eagerly accepts when Rosy invites her over to help with a new puzzle. But that offer pales next to a subsequent invitation, from another friend, to go on her very first boat ride. Priscilla ponders fibbing to Rosy to get out of their date but reconsiders after another pal chastises her ("Priscilla Rat, you are not nice!"). Back home, in a burst of temper that any child—or parent—will easily recognize, the frustrated gal yells "I hate puzzles!" as she kicks the furniture, but ultimately does the right thing. Hendry (No Frogs for Dinner) fills her busy illustrations with amusing particulars—a human watch serves as the clock on Priscilla's wall, a stroller is adapted from a tea cup—as she portrays the world of these appealing rodents. Author and artist portray a credible ending while keeping Priscilla true to her prickly but good-hearted nature. Ages 5-8. (Oct.)
