TOP SECRET

Written in prose reminiscent of a spy or detective novel, Dewan reveals the secrets behind the tooth-fairy legend. Seven small creatures with smoothly shaped heads—cartoon turtles without shells—are dressed in gear similar to firefighters' outfits, and are introduced according to the skills they apply to their missions. The ``new kid'' narrates, describing the machines they make and remake with the same parts, to help them ratchet over the letter-slot in the front door, climb the carpeted stairs, and create a hot-air balloon and escape vehicle. The mission: to remove a tooth and place a coin under the pillow of a sleeping girl. The catchy lingo of the narration and the Lego-like machines combine for adventurous fun, especially for the mechanically inclined. Aim at older readers: The pages are often divided into comic-strip panels, and can be confusing; Dewan's rendering of the child is less adept than his other images, so that the hoisting up of the sleeping girl looks awkward and a little frightening. (Picture book. 5-8)