FURRY

The author of several simple but unusually perceptive stories about the dramas in the lives of small children (What Alvin Wanted, 1990) addresses the disappointment of an allergic child who firmly believes that ``Only pets with fur are fun.'' After some realistic encounters with the pets she can't have, Laura finally accepts one offered by her little brother Alfie, a sympathetic tot who has been working on her problem right along: an appealing chameleon. Alfie even comes up with the perfect name: ``Furry.'' Nice family dynamics, cheery, straightforward illustrations, and believable, easily read dialogue—in another solid contribution from a reliable author. (Picture book. 3-8)