MAX AND RUBY'S MIDAS

In a companion to Max and Ruby's First Greek Myth: Pandora's Box (1993), Wells adapts the Greek legend of King Midas to an amusing story-within-a-story. Ruby catches Max whispering ``Hello, beautiful'' to a bedtime- snack cupcake, and uses the opportunity to ``read'' him the story of Prince Midas. The prince turns everything to sweet goodies with his laser eyes but gets lonely after turning his parents and sister into desserts. He gives up his laser powers to have them back. The fun begins with the contrast between Prince Midas, who finally turns a hot fudge sundae into broccoli, and Max, who joyously greets his cupcake with a ``Good night, Beautiful!'' after Ruby's exit. The buoyant humor of Wells's illustrations (the rabbit family in a Cretan palace is very funny) fits the silliness of the book. It may not carry the serious message about greed that is the heart of the original, but it's an enjoyable spoof. (Picture book. 4-8)