FOREST CHILD

When a boy wanders into the woods and gets lost, the animals are hostile and suspicious at first, ``mumbling, grumbling, growling low.'' But after he frees a rabbit from a hunting trap, the animals see that he can be trusted and they take care of him as though he were one of them. They bathe him, feed him, play with him, send a message to his mother that he is safe, make his bed for him, and watch over him while he sleeps. Though the story is a traditional one (making friends with the animals), McGee tells it with unusual gentleness. Banfill's beautiful illustrations (e.g., the boy reflected in the wary eyes of an owl comes to mind) enhance the magical quality of this special book. A perfect bedtime story. (Picture book. 3-7)