SURPRISE BOX
by Nicki Weiss & illustrated by Nicki Weiss
While Granny naps, a bright-eyed moppet prepares a lovely surprise—a shoebox full of treasures: ``Pebble Penny Bottle cap Nail Ant Worm Frog Snail.'' Captioning her simple, well- constructed illustrations with a succinct text in the style of Dog Boy Cap Skate (1989), Weiss tells an appealing story with a satisfyingly startling climax (``Shake Listen Stare Shriek'') and a cozy conclusion (``Girl Granny Giggle... Hug''). From implied role models to sophisticated color, a richer offering than is immediately evident. (Picture book. 2-7)