MY GRANDFATHER'S HAT

A favorite hat serves as pivot for revealing episodes, narrated by Jason after Grandpa's death, that portray their special relationship: when Jason jumps on Grandpa's hat by mistake, Mom scolds but Grandpa says, easily, ``leave the boy alone,'' and gives him a wink; the hat tops the snowman they build and is used to carry eggs from the henhouse. And though other longtime belongings are sold after Grandpa's death, Jason is given the hat, with permission to wear it now or wait until he grows into it. Scheller makes a strong debut with her warm, skillfully crafted narrative; Narahashi's glowing impressionistic pastels are an excellent complement, deftly capturing the action and mood. (Picture book. 4-8)