cover image The Little Warranty People

The Little Warranty People

E. Uspenskii, Eduard Uspenski. Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers, $15 (133pp) ISBN 978-0-679-82063-5

``Why do you think we, the warranty people, get along in this world?'' asks Coldman, a tiny man who inhabits a newly manufactured refrigerator. ``We treat everyone we meet as if we have known them all our lives.'' His hearty declaration captures the spirit of all the ``warranty people'' who reside inside domestic appliances to repair and maintain them until their warranty expires. It is a demanding job, but these energetic souls are seldom lonely and often lead adventurous lives. Children will thoroughly enjoy this droll, imaginative tale which, like Mary Norton's The Borrowers , explores an extraordinary, minute society that coexists with the workaday world. As in the Russian author's previously translated book, Uncle Fedya, His Dog, and His Cat , the animated, concise narration deems this story especially suitable for reading aloud. A small, spirited pen-and-ink illustration opens each chapter of this refreshing tale. Ages 6-10. (May)