PINKY AND REX AND THE SPELLING BEE

One of two new books about the likable best friends introduced in 1990. (The other, Pinky and Rex and the Mean Old Witch, is a nicely understated but predictable story about the mellowing of a neighborhood grouch.) The Spelling Bee has some thought-provoking twists: seized with competitive fervor, Pinky has his heart set on winning a spelling bee; he doesbut learns that losing isn't the worst thing when, over-excited at his moment of triumph, he ``pees'' in front of the class. Later, Rex conveys her sympathy with ingenious (and credible) tact. A satisfying story that effectively challenges several preconceptions. Sweet's attractive illustrations extend the wholesome good humor. (Young reader. 6-8)