A classroom project- watching a setting hen- provides a solid background for a meaningful treatment of a new-boy problem. Jerry, uncomfortable because he has not yet been fully accepted by his classmates, is asked to bring his hen Speckles, to school for the three weeks' incubation period. Speckles' solicitous scratchings and pokings, Jerry's care, the students' anticipation and the final hatching, make a satisfying experience for everyone and provide some first hand knowledge about eggs and chickens. The simple, steady text makes the book a good first reader as well. Kathleen Elgin has drawn some nice pictures of earnest children and a concerned Speckles.