THOMAS'S SITTER
by Jean Richardson & illustrated by Dawn Holmes
Thomas's new sister has caused a particularly unacceptable disruption: Thomas won't be going back to friend Matthew's house while his mother is at work—now there'll be a baby-sitter. Distressed, Thomas acts out, driving away candidates with his pranks until he meets Dan: ``artist, handyman, gardener, and perhaps your babysitter.'' Predictable, but told with some nicely imaginative touches; Holmes makes a fine debut with lively realistic watercolors that deftly capture Tom's feelings. Warmly appealing. (Picture book. 4-8)