KELLY IN THE MIRROR

Not realizing how much Kelly worries because she isn't included in their comparisons, her family talks constantly about how much Bryan looks like Daddy and Erin looks like Mamma. The mirror, which seems to confirm their remarks, offers no comfort; but when Kelly explores an old photo album she finds in the attic, there's someone who looks just like her: Mamma, at Kelly's age. That solves this little girl's problem; but there's no suggestion that her family has been needlessly tactless, or that other children, who really don't happen to resemble their relatives, will need to look elsewhere for a comfortable self- image. Still, the author makes a good debut with her nicely honed text and realistic dialogue; her depiction of this affectionate African-American family is warm and wholesome, while Speidel's richly toned impressionistic pastels are full of good humor. (Picture book. 5-8)