DO YOU STILL LOVE ME?

Has Dudley the dog been replaced in the affections of his young owner by a chameleon named Pequito? Certainly, Dudley seems to pale in comparison with the lizard, who not only blends in with his surroundings (in one of the book's many moments of sly wordless humor, Pequito assumes the red brocade pattern of Aunt Prissy's dress), but also can coolly zap Dudley's fleas with his tongue and impress Anna's friends with his huge, independently mobile eyes. "Nobody seemed to care about him anymore," writes Middleton (Tabitha's Terrifically Tough Tooth), channeling Dudley's doleful state, "only about Pequito who was better at everything." Middleton composes mixed-media collages with densely colored, streamlined shapes and an expansive sense of scale. Her approach pays off comically here, as she emphasizes just how effectively Pequito's petite piquancy arouses bulky Dudley's ire. Although the ending may be as familiar as the premise, Middleton's high sense of style gives the story a fresh, understated sweetness. Youngsters with a new addition (whether furry or human) will appreciate the insights she offers here. Ages 2-6. (Aug.)