"UP THE LADDER, DOWN THE SLIDE"

A rhyming romp follows a group of Apr.; kids from dawn until dusk, as they play in the park. Slides, swings, and a picnic on a big blue blanket fill up the day under a smiling sun: ""Up the ladder, down the slide, so much fun to play outside!"" When all the food is gone, and the daylight fades away, it's time to blow kisses and say goodbye. Everitt's breezy style of illustration, filled with lively pinks, yellows and greens is friendly, but this is less a story and more a blueprint for a fun day outside. Most children will read it once, pack a picnic, and go.