THE BIG BABY

Continuing his campaign against the posturings and insensitivities of the adult male, Browne (Piggybook, 1986) caricatures John Young's dad, who's ``young for his age''—as exhibited in his clothes, hair styles, ``toys,'' fondness for loud music, and self-preoccupation. When he pampers himself at the hint of a cold, Mum calls Dad ``a Big Baby''; and after he downs some ``elixa de yoof'' from a health food store, that's exactly what he becomes. His wife and son (who, curiously, is mentioned but never appears in the pictures) just laugh at the man-faced infant, who suffers his sudden inadequacies (including diapering) with his usual poor grace; but he's soon back to normal—with one gray hair but, true to form, without having learned a thing. The satirical portrait is merciless, but witty. As usual, Browne's fans will also enjoy discovering the sly surreal touches and artistic references in his exquisitely composed art. (Picture book. 4+)