cover image Maisy's Pop-Up Playhouse

Maisy's Pop-Up Playhouse

Lucy Cousins. Candlewick Press (MA), $18.99 (8pp) ISBN 978-1-56402-635-4

Q. What's more fun than a book bearing the distinctive Cousins touch? A. An entire domicile decorated in this author/ illustrator's well-known whimsical style. In this book cum dollhouse, would-be homemakers use the attached ribbons to tie together the book's covers, thereby forming a three-room abode (kitchen, bath and bedroom). For a guided tour, readers can consult the small booklet tucked into a kitchen windowbox, Maisy's Day, which locates Maisy the mouse herself-a cardboard Maisy with movable arms ``hides'' in the shower. Following the book's suggestions, kids help Maisy get dressed, take a bath, etc., in the process opening doors and drawers, turning down the bedspread, even pulling toilet paper (of the cardboard variety) from its dispenser. Press-out objects equip each room; these can be stored in cupboards, medicine chests, armoires and similarly convenient spots, while other nooks and crannies invite close exploration. Intriguing interactive interiors in one swell dwelling. Ages 3-up. (Sept.)