"Oh, No," Said Elephant

Poor Elephant. His friends want to play hide-and-seek, leapfrog, and other games, but his bulk and slowness seem destined to keep him out of the winner's circle. "Oh, no," says Elephant in response to each suggested game. "I'm not good at that." Dressed in a natty bow tie and pants, Elephant makes the most of each situation, and Iranian artist Goldouzian does the same, in wildly inventive paintings that celebrate the animals' chaotic play. Teacups and chairs go flying when Elephant hides under a table during hide-and-seek; "I can see you!" shouts Monkey, soaring in through a window. Later, Zebra attempts to pole vault over the "too tall" Elephant during hopscotch. Some readers may be surprised at how mean Elephant's friends are ("You're foolish!" cries Leopard, tangled up with Elephant in a jump rope), but Benjamin (The Big Splash) subtly emphasizes the value of participation%E2%80%94and that it's possible to have fun even when an activity isn't one's strong suit. Eventually, the tables turn when Elephant suggests playing tug-of-war: Elephant may be big, clumsy, and slow, but he's also strong, in more ways than one. Ages 3%E2%80%935. (June)