Bear's Loose Tooth

As honey-colored Bear savors some tasty food with his forest friends, he discovers a loose tooth. Though Bear is distressed ("But how will I eat/ if my tooth says good-bye?") Mouse reassures him that a new tooth will grow in. Wren, Owl, and Badger each gently take a turn trying to pull out Bear's tooth, but it finally falls out when Bear wiggles it with his tongue. A fluttering tooth fairy leaves Bear blueberries, and the ending suggests she'll be paying Bear a return visit soon. With warm prose, comforting acrylics, and a healthy dose of physical comedy, the tale should amuse young readers. Ages 3%E2%80%937. (Aug.)