POOR MONTY

Monty's mother is a doctor; after a morning seeing patients, lunch visiting the ``old folk,'' and an afternoon coping with ``forms,'' she's desperate for a few peaceful moments when she finally gets home. Monty understands, but his need is urgent: ``...suppose your head felt as if little men in steel boots were stamping on it....'' ``Mmmmm,'' says his mother. Still, his chicken-pox spots finally claim her attention, and it's Monty's turn for some of the devoted attention the rest of the world has enjoyed all day. Fine's very brief text presents this quintessential situation with sympathy and humor, wonderfully extended in Vulliamy's watercolor illustrations. From the exuberant goodbye hug they share in at the morning, there's no doubt that Monty and his mother love each other dearly and that all her patients also benefit from this busy doctor's caring concern. A charming vignette that should strike a responsive chord in many families. (Picture book. 3-8)