'It was a great day for a picnic,' begins Marc Simont"s lovely, touching, happy-ending picture book, The Stray Dog. And indeed, judging from the opening spread"s clear skies, sparkling water, zooming boats, and adventure-bound cars it looks to be so. The story begins as a scruffy little dog makes an appearance at a family"s picnic. The children name him Willy, and by the end of the day they desperately want to take him home. The family drives away, but all week they can think of nothing but their new furry friend. They return to picnic at the same spot the very next week, much to Willy"s good fortune--and that of the newly smitten family.