In a world of either dinosaurs or princesses, it's nice to find picture books that will appeal to both boys and girls. Characters like a hard-working little tractor and a timid kangaroo will make fun additions to any child's library.

"OTIS," by Loren Long, Philomel, $17.99 (ages 4-8)

Otis is a friendly little tractor who likes his work on the farm. But after a long day of work, Otis is happy to unwind. He rides the rolling hills, skirts the mud pond, leapfrogs bales of hay, plays with the ducks or just sits under the apple tree and watches the farm. And when the day finally comes to an end, he chugs back to his own little stall in the barn.

One night, the farmer brings a young calf into the barn. Afraid and wanting her mother, the calf bawls and bawls. It's only when she hears the gentle putt puff puttedy chuff coming from Otis' stall that she's comforted and falls asleep.

It's love at first puff for Otis and the calf and they become inseparable, the calf following Otis on all his jaunts.

Things change, however, when the farmer brings home a big new yellow tractor. Otis loses his stall and is forced to sleep outside.

The poor little tractor is forgotten until the calf gets stuck in the mud pond. When all the farmer's attempts to save the calf fail, there's only one hope — Otis.

"Otis" is a heartwarming story that young readers will love. Its simple illustrations in muted tones with pops of color call to mind the work of Virginia Lee Burton ("Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel"). And its universal themes of friendship will resonate with all.

"POUCH!" by David Ezra Stein, G.P. Putnam's Sons, $15.99 (ages 3-5)

Joey is a brand-new kangaroo who is afraid to leave his mother's pouch. Curiosity gets the better of him, though, and he musters the courage to venture out.

On his hopping adventures, Joey meets lots of interesting animals that make him a little nervous. Good thing Mama is always nearby.

Each time Joey leaves the comfort of the pouch, he ventures a little farther, until one day, he meets someone who's just as scared as him — another kangaroo. Together, the two are able to overcome their nerves and become good friends.

Vibrant colors and fun illustrations bring "Pouch!" to life. There's not much in the way of writing, here, but combined with fun images, it's perfect for the young set. And Stein's loose artistic style will encourage youths to use their imaginations.

e-mail: jharrison@desnews.com