Rose and Riley Come and Go

Rose, a pixie-like vole, and Riley, a sturdy groundhog won a host of preschool fans when they were introduced last year. Youngsters responded not only to their entertaining adventures but also to the strong bond of friendship between the two. Now, with "Rose and Riley Come and Go" the perky pair are off on three new adventures. First they go to the beach where Riley wanted to find "a big, pink perfect seashell" just like the one he had seen in a picture. Rose is more than happy with the smaller shells she finds because they're real, and Riley finally decides that the real shells feel good to hold and smell of the sea. Next, Rose wants to go in search of wildflowers. Riley isn't too sure about that and even brings along a bat to protect them from "wild"flowers. Of course, Riley learns that wildflowers are not "scary or bad." Finally, when Riley first thinks his yard is filled with birds he is pleased. It's quite different when their singing keeeps him awake at night. It takes Rose to discover that there really aren't that many birds - just one mockingbird. Once again, Thomas F. Yezersky warmly accompanies the stories with detailed sun-washed illustrations as young readers learn about some of nature's wonders. - Gail Cooke