Gr 4-6 Alex ``Skinnybones'' Franko vitch returns as a media starin his own mind, at least. Fans of Skinny bones (Knopf, 1982) will remember that Alex, the winner of a cat food contest, was slated to star in a TV commercial. Here Alex prepares for stardom by signing autographs for his highly reluc tant public and by trying to drum up a fan club. Unfortunately, the commer cial brings ridicule rather than fame ; but is Alex daunted? Not hehe only tries harder to impress, with predict ably disastrous results, including a not- so-starring role in the Christmas play. Through it all, he remains a cheerfully unfazed, obnoxious braggart; and what is particularly astonishing is that Park has made Alex a likable character in spite of himself. Once again demon strating her remarkable ear for dia logue, she also shows a good sense of timing in this fast-paced outing. Every child knows an Alex Frankovitch, so this is sure to be as popular as its prede cessor. Kathleen Brachmann, High land Park Public Library, Ill.

Young Alex ``Skinnybones'' Frankovitch finally gets his chance to become a Big Celebrity--starring in a cat food commercial. But his fan club attracts only two members, and things go from bad to worse in this amusing follow-up to Skinnybones . Ages 8-12. (Nov.)