ME! ME! ABC

In a terse alphabet for the self-absorbed, Bergen digitally adds an occasional background or detail to 26 close-up views of the vinyl animal characters she manufactures, which appear with such demanding captions as “Admire me,” “Buckle me,” “E-mail me,” “Gimme!” “Kiss me,” and “Pay attention to me.” This last sums up the whole message here, which is certainly one that most preschoolers will enthusiastically endorse. But with oversized heads atop tiny bodies and eyes made from big, sewn-on circles, the dolls look grotesque rather than cute, especially when blown up to nearly full-page size, and lines like “Obey me” and “Untie me” add a kinky flavor more suitable for sharing among adults. Use selectively. (Picture book. 3-5)