I HATE YOU! I LIKE YOU!

A somewhat less didactic take on the nature of difference than that found in Bogacki's Cat & Mouse (1995). Two creatures—one that looks like an animated pencil and the other, much larger, like a furry, four-footed tribble—engage each other. ``I like you!'' says the furry one. ``I hate you!'' replies the little one, which goes on to enumerate the things it hates: the furry one's shape (under which it hides in a rain storm); the furry one's teeth (which protect the little one from attackers); the furry one's eyes (whose bright beams illuminate the darkness). When the large creature finally retreats under this barrage, the little one implores, ``Don't go away! I like you!'' in typical toddler manner. The colors are bright, the edges fuzzy, and the whole thing will please those who think no picture book should be without its message. (Picture book. 3-5)