WHEELS

Busy Trotter Street stars again, with a typically benevolent Hughes flavor to the events. Billy's mum takes care of Marco while Marco's mum works in a bakery; the two friends enjoy racing their old bikes, and each hopes for a much-needed new one. Billy gets his wish on his birthday; economic reality means that Marco doesn't, and he is understandably disappointed. However, Marco's big brother has made him a go-cart, fashioned with care and beautifully painted—and it's a winner in the annual ``Non- Bicycle Race'' in the local park, when the many contestants (who will be familiar to fans of the series) turn up with scooters, skateboards, roller skates, etc. Another warm, generous, delectably illustrated slice of life as it should be from this master of realistic stories. (Picture book. 4-8)