Elliot Fry's Good-Bye

A familiar story line yields its share of amusement in this competent if unexceptional picture book. Elliot Fry can cope with most of life's little anxieties--his mother's complaints about mud tracks across the kitchen floor, his father's aversion to the harmonica, his sister's tattling. But when his mother announces Uncle Abe's impending visit, Elliot draws the line at rooming with him: ``It's not fair! I'M LEAVING!'' His parents, however, are two steps ahead, and Elliot's intended drama fizzles when they offer a suitcase and suggest snacks and appropriate runaway attire. After three trips around the block, Elliot returns, to be greeted with a burst of attention. Brimner maintains a steady tone throughout, while Fernandes contributes spirited, busy illustrations. Ages 4-8. (Feb.)