Bailey's Birthday

Gifts from the heart are the best gifts of all. That's the message drummed into readers in this decidedly less-than-subtle picture book. Bailey, a frisky dalmatian, and Margot, his owner, are due to celebrate a birthday. Meanwhile, Bailey attends Margot's friend's birthday party and concludes that if he's good enough, he, too, will get an enormous pile of loot. But Margot's parents are going through tough times financially, and the presents, when the big day finally arrives, are humble, the main focus being a fun family outing for all. The tale suffers from an excess of earnestness, and children are unlikely to enjoy being preached to by a dalmatian. However, readers can't help but sympathize with the dog's dashed hopes. Chase's ever-sunny watercolors of the Manhattan setting provide a welcoming backdrop. A videocassette and an activity book are also available, either separately or packaged with the book. Ages 5-9. (Apr.)