CARLOS AND LITTLE WOLF

As Carlos waits for his pomegranates to get big enough to eat, Little Wolf waits for himself to get big enough to eat Carlos. His plans fall through, however, and after a willy-hilly chase through town the two become friends. Little Wolf sets his sights on the teacher instead. Carlos emerges as a dreamy boy who loves to think about anything but his lessons, while Little Wolf stays in character, always leading with his stomach. These three easy-to-read stories are gently humorous, possessing more individuality than most; Little Wolf's perspective is funny, and the climactic scene where he and the teacher mix it up in a magic booth is hilarious. The illustrations, too, have much to recommend them. White scratchboard outlines and delicately colored watercolor washes fluidly complement the text.