Dick and Jane and Vampires

Joining the many supernatural/classic publishing mashups of the moment, this gifty gem incorporates illustrations from the original Dick and Jane series—with the addition of a Lugosi-style vampire. The children are at first fearful of the infiltrator: "Look, Jane, Look. There is Father. Hello, Father. Oh, oh, oh. That is not our father. Run, Jane! Run, Dick!" In a later section, however, the vampire becomes a playmate, jumping rope and playing house: "Vampire is my baby. Vampire is my funny little baby." Though the conceit wears a little thin, the inspired concept and skillful execution should give it coffee-table staying power. Ages 5–up. (Aug.)