Feathers for Lunch

Ehlert ( Fish Eyes ; Color Zoo ) brings her fresh, distinctive eye for color and design to the world of birds. Twelve of the most familiar appear--pursued but never truly threatened by a bell-wearing cat--in this collection of stunning cutout compositions, accompanied by simple, sprightly verse. ``But cats / can't fly / and they / can't soar; / and birds / know what / their wings are for.'' Lifesize and sporting plumage that, whether brilliant or muted, manages to suggest a feather's almost infinitely variegated hues, these are birds that truly soar. A succinct but informative glossary concludes this imaginative armchair excursion, which is at once an inspiring introduction to bird-watching and a pure visual treat. Ages 3-8. (Sept.)