GOLDEN BEAR
by Ruth Young & illustrated by Rachel Isadora
A simple rhymed text describes a preschooler's activities with a constant companion, a favorite toy. In Isadora's vibrant, boldly simplified depiction, the child is black and probably a boy; the bear is almost as large as his friend in scenes where he is shown as an active participant (``Skating fast on silver ice/Tracing perfect circles twice'' or ``Playing on the violin''), but just right to tuck under an arm at bedtime. The clarity of the illustrative style and colors, and the warm interaction, connoting the child's happy enthusiasm for a variety of activities, make this an especially attractive choice for the youngest audiences. A tune to which the text may be sung is included on the endpapers. (Picture book. 1-5)