This picture book [2.5 for me!] didn't fill me with delight despite its leprechaun protagonist. It covers very familiar territory--a character discontThis picture book [2.5 for me!] didn't fill me with delight despite its leprechaun protagonist. It covers very familiar territory--a character discontent with his size, his looks, and his lack of true friends--who decides to look for happiness elsewhere or by changing. The leprechaun, Connor O'Connor, abandons the accouterments of a leprechaun and then uses a magic spell to turn himself into various creatures, including a fairy and a carpenter, among others, but after each change, he realizes that there are disadvantages to them. When he finally meets someone willing to be his friend, he heeds her advice to be himself. While the book's message that happiness comes from within and not from trying to be something that you're not is a good one, the heavy-handedness of the text and the flatness of the artwork diminishes its overall appeal--at least for me. Its intended young audience may have a completely different reaction. ...more
Since I'm not familiar with many Icelandic traditional tales, I was pleased to read this one. Its plot will be familiar to those who have read many otSince I'm not familiar with many Icelandic traditional tales, I was pleased to read this one. Its plot will be familiar to those who have read many other folktales from around the world, but it's still told in an appealing, forthright manner. The plot concerns a boy whose parents send him to find their missing cow. After great effort, he eventually does, partly with some help from the animal. But before they can make it home, they are chased by two ogresses. The cow, who is clearly magical and worth her weight in gold, saves the day three times by suggesting that the boy pluck a hair from her tail, which she then uses for an enchantment. I liked the large drawings with different perspectives, including close-ups of faces and a view from the feet as well as one showing what happened to the pursuers. Some youngsters may want to compare this story with others that are similar, noting how they are alike and different. ...more
I continue to enjoy these traditional tales from the Arctic published by Inhabit Media. This one has the rhythm and flow to be expected from an oral sI continue to enjoy these traditional tales from the Arctic published by Inhabit Media. This one has the rhythm and flow to be expected from an oral storyteller. It's brief but engaging as characterized by these sorts of stories. A giant finds a child left behind by his parents and treats him as his own. When the boy spots a grizzly bear, the giant isn't particularly concerned since it's small compared to him. But a much bigger grizzly bear gives him quite a battle. Youngsters will love all the action in this picture book, depicted carefully with resplendent colors, as well as some of the scenes comparing the giant to the different grizzlies. That must have been one very large animal to test the giant as it does. ...more
I continue to be impressed with this publishing house's efforts to keep certain cultural traditions alive while honoring the Irish Travellers. TranscrI continue to be impressed with this publishing house's efforts to keep certain cultural traditions alive while honoring the Irish Travellers. Transcribed from a recording of an oral storyteller, this tale shows the cunning nature of the king of the Travellers who escapes into the woods with his grandchildren when soldiers threaten to arrest those who refuse to pay the taxes the royal family demands. He finds a friend in a fairy queen, who transforms them into leprechauns. What he does next with the special powers she gives to him may surprise some readers while delighting others. The illustrations that accompany this engaging tale are just as enchanting as the story itself and how it is told, retaining the magic and speech patterns of the teller. The lines about how the queen felt about this new land are humorous, of course, as she gets exactly what she deserves, and those Travellers have the last laugh. ...more
Reading this folktale [3.5] was a hoot. Twelve-year-old Mendel Schlotz is certainly well meaning, but for some reason--perhaps because he was cursed bReading this folktale [3.5] was a hoot. Twelve-year-old Mendel Schlotz is certainly well meaning, but for some reason--perhaps because he was cursed before birth--his good intentions always go awry. Even the simplest tasks such as setting the table for a meal or responding to questions in class end up causing a mess. Mendel just can't help it. But when Cossacks threaten the village of Lintvint, it's his quick thinking that saves the villagers. I won't spoil how this happens since there are several twists and turns as well as unexpected moments that make all the difference in the world. Middle grade readers will be familiar with the adage that sometimes our weaknesses can become our strengths. which makes Mendel's experiences all the more relatable, but they won't expect some of the events in this story or how that adage plays out. And ugh! a drink made from goat sweat! Even the thought of such a beverage will make readers shudder. The artwork and text fit together in an engaging way, making this read a delight from start to finish with plenty of humor, some pathos, and lots of suspense. There are surely plenty of Mendels out there who will see themselves in this one. ...more
Although I've read other versions about the Spirit of the Sea, one of the Inuit legends that I find most fascinating, this one stands up well against Although I've read other versions about the Spirit of the Sea, one of the Inuit legends that I find most fascinating, this one stands up well against those others. Arnaq lives contentedly with her father, Ataata, refusing all offers of marriage until she is tricked into accepting one lucrative proposal. But when she arrives at her new husband's home, she realizes that nothing he said was true. When her father comes to see her, he realizes that she's in a bad situation, fleeing with her. But when her husband and his seabirds attack, her father betrays her, cutting off her fingers to save himself. Her body parts transform into different animals, and the girl becomes Nuliajuq, the Spirit of the Sea. The story moves quickly, accompanied by attractive illustrations filled with blues and much movement. Young readers may enjoy comparing this version of the tale with others as well as searching for possible similar stories from other cultures. ...more
This digitally illustrated picture book, part of the I Like to Read series, tells the story of the origin of lacrosse, based on a Native American legeThis digitally illustrated picture book, part of the I Like to Read series, tells the story of the origin of lacrosse, based on a Native American legend. When his grandson worries about being too small to play the sport with the larger boys, his grandfather shares the experiences of Mouse and Squirrel, two small animals that wanted to play with Team Four Legs and Team Wings. Only the latter one gave them a chance, using string and leather to craft wings, allowing them to fly and use their speed and small size to advantage. The larger animals were befuddled by the smaller creatures, and the little ones decided to keep their new wings, becoming Bat and Flying Squirrel, two new species. Now inspired, the boy realizes that there is a place for him within the sport. With crisp, clean images and an appealing storytelling style, this picture book serves as a good example to young readers who face similar challenges. ...more
Rooted in Mexican folklore, this middle grade novel is filled with heart as well as important reflections on love, loss, and grief. I don't want to saRooted in Mexican folklore, this middle grade novel is filled with heart as well as important reflections on love, loss, and grief. I don't want to say too much for fear of spoiling it for others, but I especially enjoyed the descriptions of the narrator's world as well as Floresta, the magical realm where she journeys in order to save her brother, Alex, and her own world. The author hints at the origin of all the sickness in ten-year-old Lola's world as various plants and even Alex are growing sicker by the hour and becoming gray, but it's only late in the book that readers actually realize the truth. It's typical for families and young people to refer to traumatic events in euphemistic words or phrases. For Lola, it is The Thing That Happened, and her brother has never been the same since that time. When an oracle tells her what the cure might be, she follows one of the chaneques through a portal in her closet that leads to another land. The parallels between what's happening in both worlds is interesting since Lola finds it almost impossible to accept what she needs to do in order for Alex to get well. The world building here is astonishingly detailed, filled with magical flora and fauna and all sorts of transformations that will make some readers wish that they, too, could visit Floresta. For many, the passages about letting go vs. holding on and acknowledging the death doesn't mean the end may be eye-opening and comforting. There's a dreamlike, almost hypnotic quality to the prose here that makes readers homesick for the magical land where Lola traveled. The book contains several black and white sketches, some I liked more than others. ...more
Based on one of the legends about the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival and the Moon Goddess, this picture book shines a light on the actions of one brave yBased on one of the legends about the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival and the Moon Goddess, this picture book shines a light on the actions of one brave young girl. Wanting to contribute to her community's efforts to overthrow the Mongolian invaders, Su-Ling volunteers to deliver a secret message about the start of the revolution to other rebels. Hidden in one of the four mooncakes she is carrying, the message will spell doom if the guards find it. When a guard stops the girl and samples the mooncakes, she summons her inner tiger strength and doesn't panic, acting quickly when one of the cakes lands on the floor and somehow hiding the message. Readers who appreciate stories about brave youngsters who save the day will appreciate this one, which is different from the usual fare. The digital artwork contains scenes in which Su-Ling visualizes the tiger that inspires her. The story is interesting, but the illustrations are rather flat, lacking texture, and I would have liked them more if the page composition was more varied....more
Part of the Holidays in Our Home series, this picture book offers a glimpse into Diwali through the eyes of young Riya, who isn't all that thrilled wiPart of the Holidays in Our Home series, this picture book offers a glimpse into Diwali through the eyes of young Riya, who isn't all that thrilled with the loud celebrations but loves the delicious treats that her family prepares. Her mother encourages her to participate and helps her conquer her anxiety about the crowds, fireworks, and possible darkness by telling her the story of Ram, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshman and the origin of many of the cultural traditions surrounding this holiday. All five days that are part of the celebration are highlighted in the book, and there is a glossary with thumbnail sketches of various foods or family members as well as some recipes and crafts for readers who want to be a part of Diwali. The artwork is colorful, brimming with lots of ribbons of motion and culturally rich scenes. Even the endpapers almost give up an aroma that tempts readers to breathe in deeply or take a bite of what's being offered. Books such as this one go far in helping youngsters appreciate the traditions and holidays that are celebrated in various parts of the world. ...more
This book, the third in the series, reunites its protagonist, Winnie Zeng, with her frenemy David and her former nemesis Kelly as the three are among This book, the third in the series, reunites its protagonist, Winnie Zeng, with her frenemy David and her former nemesis Kelly as the three are among the shamans invited to the Shaman Youth Tournament during winter break from school. As always, there are humorous moments, plenty of magic, and some surprises along the way. Winnie trains hard and somehow manages to pull out several victories during her competitive rounds, thanks to her own hard work and the support of her grandmother--oh, yes, and some delicious and sustaining cookies appropriately called Confidence Black Sesame Cookies and some Ube Coconut Sugar Cookies [recipes are in the back matter]. But Winnie has the feeling that all is not right at the tournament, and there is mischief afoot and danger for the entire world. This satisfying, cultural rich continuation of Winnie's adventures will keep fans of the series on their toes even while they root for Winnie to embrace her inner strength and dismiss her doubts. ...more
Don't be put off by the size of this book or the number of pages. It's worth the time spent reading it as the author captures this part of rural IrelaDon't be put off by the size of this book or the number of pages. It's worth the time spent reading it as the author captures this part of rural Ireland and its oh, so complex inhabitants perfectly. It's an unpleasantly hot and dry summer, and routines are interrupted by the arrival of Johnny Reddy, a ne'er- do-well who's returned home with a get rich scheme. Although his peers have every reason not to trust Johnny, still, the allure of gold and wealth tempt them. The book would be interesting enough with that promising premise. But in the hands of Tana French, it becomes something more, a layered story of revenge at the hands of Trey, Johnny's daughter, a test of loyalty and understanding between Trey and Cal Hooper, the retired Chicago PD who loves the land but isn't still completely accepted by the town, and an exploration of vigilante justice. This was my first dip into the work of this author, and it won't be the last because her writing shines. The descriptions of characters' thoughts and motivations as well as her ear for dialect and her deft handling of plot twists and relationships kept me reading avidly from the first to the last page. Readers looking for physical action on every page won't find it here, but what they will find is moody, intense, and revelatory. ...more
It was hard for me to put this book down or see the story conclude so invested was I in the world created by its author. Fox spirits that can take on It was hard for me to put this book down or see the story conclude so invested was I in the world created by its author. Fox spirits that can take on human form and enchant them because of their own attractiveness populate this book in intriguing ways. Although most of the story focuses on one fox, Snow, who is determined to go to any lengths to avenge her fox cub daughter's death, there are two other fox spirits who play important parts in the story. As Snow follows various clues leading to the man responsible for this terrible loss, her path eventually intersects with Bao, a private investigator who has been hired to uncover the identity and reasons for the death of a woman who seems to have been lured into the cold without proper attire. The elegant storytelling and interesting plot as well as this glimpse into the myths that surround foxes in Chinese culture is almost as mesmerizing as the fox spirits who come to life on its pages. The fox characters are complex, just as quick to anger and violence as to love and comfort. Readers will be fascinated at how the author ties together all the various narrative pieces. Anyone in search of a read that is out of the ordinary will find it here. The book's cover is lovely too. ...more
Everyone can learn something from this traditional tale passed down from Irish Travellers. It has much to say about judging others while reminding reaEveryone can learn something from this traditional tale passed down from Irish Travellers. It has much to say about judging others while reminding readers that we have quite a lot in common and that being--or living--differently isn't necessarily a bad thing. As the story goes, once there were no snails with their houses on their backs, only slugs. The slugs moved happily through life, sliding along at their own pace and marveling at the world around them. All that changes when two brother slugs encounter a crow, who ridicules them for being without a home. The younger brother feels ashamed, and decides to fashion a home that resembles the paths he and his brother have traveled along. This causes problems between the two slugs since the younger brother begins to think he is better than his sibling. When they meet the crow again, although their homes are very different--one carrying his on his back and the other regarding the whole world as his home, they are more tolerant of each other. The story flows smoothly, just like oral tales do, and the lovely artwork brings personality to those two slugs and their journey. While slugs aren't the most attractive of living things, they are visually appealing herewith their eyes on stems and smooth bodies. The illustrations add another layer to the story itself while also capturing its essence. ...more
What can this man not do well? With striking illustrations created in graphite and ink and then digitally finished, this book breathes new life into aWhat can this man not do well? With striking illustrations created in graphite and ink and then digitally finished, this book breathes new life into a traditional folktale. Adapted from a story Klassen read in a book he found in a library in Alaska while there for a presentation, this one follows a girl named Otilla who runs away and finds a new life in a most unlikely place--a large house in the woods--and with a most unlikely companion--a skull, presumably belonging to the owner of that palatial dwelling. As is the case in most folklore, readers never learn her reason for running away or what gives her the courage to befriend the skull, but the events that occur in the book will intrigue readers as well as providing some shivers. The skull's enjoyment of simple things such as a pear slice, a warm fire, and sitting in the house's library are depicted gracefully, removing some of the horror from this story. As it turns out, Otilla is not someone to mess with as she rids the skull of that skeleton that haunts him every night, an ending that readers won't see coming. The matte-of-fact way she treats all these surprises and supernatural elements, even reassuring the skull that the skeleton won't be bothering him any more effectively portrays her character and personality, and readers will have no problem believing that these two lived happily ever after in their home in the woods. The artwork fits the story quite well with depictions of the forest and the house's interior as well as close-ups of the skull, the skeleton, and Otilla. One wonders, though, how things would have ended had the skull and skeleton been reunited. ...more
Colorful, blocky artwork created with pencil and digital techniques accompanies a reassuring story about how reading helps a little girl conquer the vColorful, blocky artwork created with pencil and digital techniques accompanies a reassuring story about how reading helps a little girl conquer the various Peruvian monsters that try to interrupt her reading. But as any bookworm knows, it's hard to resist the allure of a well-written story, and eventually those night creatures decide to join Benita as she reads. Charmingly told with some repetitive language and a reader who refuses to allow any distractions to keep her from moving through the book's pages, there will be many who will easily relate to this story. The dark background on each page allows the night creatures to seem quite fierce and frightening, but readers need not worry since books always have the ability to soothe even the wildest beasts. ...more
Traveling and visiting family living in far-flung places can be a joyous experience. But for the young girl in this picture book, a trip to Poland to Traveling and visiting family living in far-flung places can be a joyous experience. But for the young girl in this picture book, a trip to Poland to visit her aunt and cousin, Karolina, has her questioning just how Polish she actually is. After all, she feels as though she hardly knows the language or the idioms or how to play the games to which Karolina introduces her. The two cousins bond over a shared interest in mermaids and traditional and original tales. Natalia takes comfort in a trip to visit a special mermaid statute, the Mermaid of Warsaw, and she starts feeling as though she just might be Polish enough, after all. The stories told by Karolina are expanded upon in the back matter, which also contains some Polish vocabulary, a map, and snippets of Polish history. The illustrations, created with gouache, crayons, acrylic paints, oil pastels, and digital techniques, captures Natalia's emotions perfectly while also allowing readers a glimpse of the busy streets and landmarks of Warsaw. This picture book provides some reassurance that even when individuals come from different places, parts of their culture and connections remain the same, providing a bridge across terrain that might otherwise have seemed impassible. ...more
Fascinating background on the real story behind the legend of Paul Bunyan, a lumberjack noted for his many feats of strength, his size, and his large Fascinating background on the real story behind the legend of Paul Bunyan, a lumberjack noted for his many feats of strength, his size, and his large blue ox, Babe. Readers who think they know all about this character will be surprised to learn how he came to capture the attention of the general public while also hiding the truth about how western expansion decimated the woods and took the land from indigenous populations. Although the book primarily relies on a graphic format to unfold the story, it contains some eye-opening information that will have readers seeing this legend and tall tales themselves in an entirely different light. ...more
Unusually striking mixed media illustrations make this revisionist version [3.5 for me!] of the classic fairy tale fresh and new. The book opens with Unusually striking mixed media illustrations make this revisionist version [3.5 for me!] of the classic fairy tale fresh and new. The book opens with a splendid double-page spread of a small pea standing up in a bowl of other peas and expressing how hungry it is. From there, the pea leaps from the bowl into a plate of brussels sprouts, one of which it gobbles. The various shades of greens in both bowl and plate are treats for the eyes even while the pea continues to forage while trying to satisfy its hunger. Eventually, the pea has consumed everything in sight or everything on the dinner table. When the princess arrives for her meal, there's nothing left, which means she has to go to sleep with an empty stomach. But not for long. In true fairy princess fashion she can't sleep due to hunger and that plump pea beneath her coverlets, and her restlessness leads her to take some surprising action. Because the story is told as a cumulative tale similar to "There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly" and also has its origins in "The Princess and the Pea," readers can feel the tension building through the rollicking repetitive language. Undoubtedly, this one is a great choice as a read aloud. It's the type of story that will have listeners asking for a second or a third reading. Fun stuff!...more
Fans of traditional tales will probably enjoy this one [3.5 for me], which has the feel of a modern classic while also resembling some of those oral sFans of traditional tales will probably enjoy this one [3.5 for me], which has the feel of a modern classic while also resembling some of those oral stories handed down generation by generation. The plot concerns a witch who carefully tends her garden from which she harvests the ingredients for the potions she tries to sell at the nearby town market. But because she and her booth are shabby, she rarely attracts customers. Her life at home isn't much better since she shares her home with three demanding rats. But the garden recognizes all her hard work and gives her a gift--a turnip boy, who changes her life. He shoulders some of her work, even cleaning up the house and booth, which prompts customers to buy her wares. You'd think those rats would be happy for her, but that's not the case. What happens next is exactly what should happen. This debut title has great appeal for youngsters, and the writing voice and images are distinct, leaving me to hope that there will be more books in this vein from this author in the future. ...more