TORTOISE BRINGS THE MAIL

Tortoise loves delivering the mail. He's friendly and dependable, but speed has never been his strong point. Boastful Crow thinks he can do the job faster, and Tortoise graciously bows out: ``Delivering the mail is very important. Let the very best one do it.'' Crow drops the mail all over the countryside, so Rabbit tries the job next; he's in such a hurry he doesn't bother to read the addresses. Fox steps in. He's fast and smart—maybe too smart: He smells every package and keeps what he wants for himself. Everyone finally recognizes that Tortoise is the best candidate for the job, and so good-hearted perseverance and pride in a job well done win out over flashy boastfulness. It's a worthy message, delivered with zeal, although the outcome is never in question. Lund's bold line-and-watercolor illustrations spice up the story with humor: Crow looks like a pompous orator gesturing with his wings; Penelope Porcupine's mailbox bristles with spikes; and B.A. Bunny has a carrot-shaped nameplate. (Picture book. 3-6)