MAXI, THE HERO
by Debra Barracca & Sal Barracca & illustrated by Mark Buehner
Maxi, the Taxi Dog (1990) again tours N.Y.C. His adventures, recounted in sprightly but rather forced verse and capped predictably by his chasing and capturing a thief, are unexceptional, but Buehner's vibrant paintings of the city and its inhabitants are observed with insight and a fresh eye; their lively detail is sure to hold attention. (Picture book. 4-8)