OWL BABIES

Three little white owls perch outside their cozy nest, wishing Mother would come home. In Waddell's simple, repetitive, carefully fashioned text, each is unique: Sarah, the largest, makes comforting remarks; Percy seconds them, but doubtfully; while little Bill just keeps saying, ``I want my mommy!'' Owl Mother does come, of course: ``WHAT'S ALL THE FUSS? You knew I'd come back.'' Benson's soft, wide-eyed birds—rendered in delicate pen strokes touched with gentle color that makes the dramatic, dark night seem appropriately awesome—are perfect stand-ins for wise little toddlers who also know Mom will turn up—but still can't help wondering. (Picture book. 1-5)