Randolph's Dream

Seven-year-old Randolph, a refugee from blitz-torn London, is sent to the countryside to stay with relatives. Homesick for his parents, the boy takes refuge in dreams of flying. His fantasies are remarkably real. In the oddest one of all, he flies across the English channel, the Alps and North Africa, finally landing near a stranded jeep in the desert. There, he finds and rescues his soldier father. The next morning, when Randolph awakens back in England, he finds tangible mementos of his nocturnal trip: sand on his shoes, a khaki handkerchief, an orange from the desert. Mellecker's engrossing, slightly haunting tale is spun seamlessly; nevertheless, it seems a curious choice for picture book format, particularly given its somewhat excessive length. On the other hand, Parker's dreamy pen-and-ink washes greatly enhance both the elusive quality of the story and its WW II setting. Ages 5-8. (Feb.)