My First Word Book

This bountiful catalogue of words in a typical preschooler's world marks the debut of the U.S. imprint of Dorling Kindersley, British innovators of the colorful photographic nonfiction identified with the Eyewitness series (Knopf). Crisp photographs and a few supplemental drawings of familiar household objects, foods, toys and clothing are neatly arranged on the spreads. A neighborhood post office and library, items in a supermarket and animals on a farm appear against ample white backgrounds--which help focus attention on these clearly labeled illustrations. Several energetic, brightly clad youngsters demonstrating ``actions'' and ``playtime'' are particularly engaging. This is a valuable first pictorial dictionary for youngest readers; older children may also enjoy using the index to match up objects, words and page numbers. Ages 4-8. (Sept.)