DADDY'S WEDDING

In the sequel to Daddy's Roommate (1990, not reviewed), ten- year-old Nick is the ``best man'' at the commitment ceremony of his gay father and his partner, Frank. Nick's mother, stepfather, and grandparents are delighted by the celebration, which takes place in a backyard and is officiated by a female minister. She asks the men to present their own version of vows before the multiracial attendees, who include other same-sex couples. The only dramatic conflict comes when the dog eats part of the wedding cake, an incident treated with equanimity and humor. In a book clearly intended to show such ceremonies as normal occasions, there is no suggestion that anyone might feel awkwardness. It is not so much bibliotherapy as a positive reinforcement of families, whatever their make up or configuration. A practical title for the parenting shelves, perhaps, rather than for general picture book collections, this book is less a literary effort than a work to reassure those in similar situations. (Picture book. 4-10)