K-Gr 2 This is a lovely valentine from Hoban to all beginning readers, many of whom are already fans of Arthur the monkey and his wise little sister, Violet. A minor squabble with his best friend, Norman, has left Arthur all alone this wintry Valentine's Day. Although Violet generously offers to join him, she is distracted by the arrival of her friend, Wilma, who has brought invitations to a big Valentine's party. Arthur declines because Norman will be there. But Norman's little brother, Tony, saves the day, and the two best friends are reunited. Wilma's party is a special celebration of fun and friendship. In this welcome addition to a popular series, Hoban's lively, colorful illustrations add humor and meaning to the text. Arthur's early ``I-don't-care'' attitude to being left out is believable, but not forced. This title will warm up any snowy, blustery day, and it should be particularly useful where holiday titles for this age group are in demand. Martha Rosen, Edgewood School, Scarsdale, N.Y.