GOOD MORNING, MAXINE!

Maxine is a school-age cat whose ebullient enthusiasm keeps her, and the animal people around her, whirling. Her every action is writ enormous, from tying her shoelaces to setting out for school following Dad's directions: ""As straight as an arrow."" Not deviating an inch, Maxine plows through an open taxi. but soon succumbs to several comic diversions--including dancing with an organ-grinder's monkey--leaving dozens of bemused spectators behind her before she slams into her destination. Adults are prone to tell kids who behave like this to calm down; their bafflement here at Maxine's relentless energy is sure to amuse readers. Cazet's lively illustrations, dancing in and out of frames and including the text as ballooned dialogue, have sure appeal.