MATHILDA THE DREAM BEAR

A little, booted, winged brown bear flies in through the keyhole and waves her wand (a forked stick) to give dreams to a dog (who dreams of a banquet at which cats wait table); to the cats (who dance in a ballet to great acclaim); and to two gaily colored fish (who explore the ocean and meet a mermaid). The bear almost forgets the wakeful bird, but after he remembers her, the two dream of flying together. Most interesting here is Heller's bold, sophisticated art; juxtaposing flat areas of vibrant color, he creates a series of lively, appealing designs. A pleasantly offbeat bedtime story.