First Words =: Premiers Mots

This is a visually sophisticated primer for an early childhood vocabulary. Images of artwork, that serve as an introduction to several Paris museums, illustrate ``boy,'' ``girl,'' ``cat,'' ``bird'' and others. The artwork ranges across a variety of media--painting, sculpture, tapestry and even dolls are represented, as viewers are treated to simplicity, abstraction, mystery, whimsy and sheer loveliness. This elegantly designed catalogue may appeal most to children at the upper end of the suggested age range, who have the patience and visual acuity to appreciate the treasures gathered within. The addition of vocabulary in several European languages seems unnecessary: the reader's task and pleasure are clearly related not to language but to perceptive perusal. Ages 3-6. (May)