CHRYSANTHEMUM

With perfect trust in her doting parents, Chrysanthemum (a mouse) knows that her name is, as they tell her, ``absolutely perfect''—until she goes to school and is teased about it by her classmates, especially the imperious Victoria. Doubt sets in, to be allayed each night by ``hugs and kisses and Parcheesi,'' but then reintroduced next day. Fortunately, a charismatic music teacher whose name happens to be Delphinium makes flower names a new fad. The ending here is preposterously tidy, contributing to the humor of a warmhearted story that celebrates the security of a happy family while gently satirizing its members. Henkes's language and humor are impeccably fresh, his cozy illustrations sensitive and funny, his little asides to adults an unobtrusive delight. Another winner from this perceptive artist. (Picture book. 4-8)*justify no*