Two new series of small picture books introduce concepts and sports, respectively. The paper-over-board, hand-size Thingy Things series by Chris Raschka uses alliteration and word repetition to build reading skills; his swift brushstrokes and calligraphic lines match the text's minimalism. The main character of Moosey Moose is mad because he wants his long pants; that of Wormy Worm gleefully wiggles; Whaley Whale describes a game of hide-and-seek; and the hero of Sluggy Slug is downright sluggish -- he simply won't go.