cover image Popple Peeking

Popple Peeking

Nicole Lorian, Popples. Random House Books for Young Readers, $5.95 (24pp) ISBN 978-0-394-88040-2

This book combines a proven seller (lift-up flaps) with new licensed characters, the Popples. These are furry little creatures who fold up into themselves, and become little pouches. They tease a hungry cat, prowling around for a nice meal of mice. When he opens doors and cupboards, he finds Popples inside. And what are they doing in Kitty's domain? Having a ""Popple-corn'' party. Just as the cat finds some mice, his master puts him out for the night. The Popples wave at the exile from the window. The slim plot and uninspired art seem to rely on the Popp-ularity of the characters to carry the tale, but the Popples are never elevated beyond an insipid greeting-card appeal. (36)