Tall Tales, 2003
Tall Tales have historically been thought of as an American genre. Watch for some international stories sprinkled in this list of new Tall Tales.Reviews
Abiyoyo ReturnsPete Seeger and Paul DuBois Jacobs
Illustrated by Michael Hays
A once small town is growing by leaps and bounds. But there are terrible droughts and the people of the town decided they must build a dam. This work goes along very nicely until they hit a boulder. It is huge. No matter what they do, they cannot move that boulder. Then someone suggests, "Bring back Abiyoyo!" Abiyoyo is the giant with long fingernails and slobbering teeth who eats people. Everyone fears him, but certainly he can move that enormous boulder. The townspeople decide that feeding Abiyoyo will make him happy. Soon, he even learns to brush his teeth. So with Abiyoyo's help the village gets its dam and the people learn that sharing will tame the monstrous Abiyoyo. Michael Hays brilliant full-page illustrations bring to life the characters in this marvelous tall tale and add dimension to the text. Readers will enjoy this story by master storyteller and singer Pete Seeger. 2001, Simon and Schuster, $17.00, Ages 4 up. Reviewer: Sue Reichard
ISBN: 0-689-83271-0
Best Books:
Children's Book Sense 76 Picks, Winter 2001 ; Book Sense 76; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Ackamarackus: Julius Lester's Sumptuously Silly Fantastically Funny Fables
Julius Lester
Illustrated by Emilie Chollat
These six original tall tales about animals, birds and insects give a decidedly different slant to the way things are or might be. Each fable ends with not one but two funny morals. Underlying the silliness are some serious questions about how people see the world. For example, Adalbert the Alligator moves from Florida to Vermont and pairs up with Bertice Bear, who finds him very attractive, proving that "You are what you think you are, and not what others think you aren't." The other fables are about a bee who falls in love with a bluebird and loses his buzz, flies who learn to fly on airplanes, a lion who's lionized for his laziness, an ant who eats an anaconda and an eagle who finds a job that doesn't require flying. It's the jaunty telling of the tales, using alliteration and play on words, that makes them entertaining for all ages. The illustrations are also quite unusual in their Picasso-like perspective and collage and patchwork-quilt effect. Colored bold fonts sprinkled through the text, the insertion of lettering in the pictures, and bold pinks, oranges, greens, and blues in the overall design make this an attractive book. 2001, Scholastic Press/Scholastic, $17.95, Ages 7 up. Reviewer: Carol Raker Collins
ISBN: 0-590-48913-5
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, March 2001 ; Cahners; United States
Armadillo Tattletale
Helen Ketteman
Illustrations by Keith Graves
From the author of Bubba the Cowboy Prince comes another Texas-style tale, this one explaining why the armadillo has short ears. "In the bare bones beginning, Armadillo's ears were as tall as a jackrabbit's and as wide as a steer's horns." With these ears, Armadillo could and did hear anything and everything. The problem was, he told what he heard, and what he told was always wrong. This made the other animals angry. Egret, Muskrat and Alligator all give Armadillo the "what-for, and the how-come, and the why-not," and then Alligator teaches him a lesson that changes him forever. The colorful acrylic, ink, and colored pencil illustrations are bold and exaggerated, making this a good story for group reading and discussion. 2000, Scholastic, $15.95, Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Linnea Hendrickson
ISBN: 0-590-99723-8
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Georgia Children's Literature Awards, 2003 ; Georgia
Louisiana Young Readers' Choice Award, 2003 ; Louisiana
Maryland Children's Book Award, 2003 ; Maryland
Volunteer State Book Award, 2004 ; Tennessee
Baloney (Henry P.)
Jon Scieszka
Visual recreation by Lane Smith
Outrageous spins on familiar themes are this team's specialty. Here Henry must come up with an excuse for being late to tell his teacher, Miss Bugscuffle. And so he begins his wild narration, filled with words whose meanings we must guess. Blasting off from a launch pad to a strange planet, he encounters, charms, then enrages the inhabitants, finally surviving a rough return. The Afterword informs us that this is a transmission from outer space, in many Earth languages, while a Decoder page gives us the original language and translation. A wild romp in few words, with new ones to learn as a bonus, this zany narrative demands appropriate visuals. Smith obliges with very large type set in capitals appearing in boxes, while other boxes of varying sizes attempt to show us Henry's out-of-this-world adventures. The mechanical look of everything, including our hero, appears produced with electronic help. Don't miss the shiny paper jacket over a textless cover, or the knock-out endpapers. A CD with the book includes a screen saver, wallpaper and a great game to practice the new vocabulary, along with information about the creative pair and their other publications. 2001, Viking/Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers, $15.99, Ages 5 to 11. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz.
ISBN: 0-670-89248-3
Best Books:
Children's Book Sense 76 Picks, Fall 2001 ; Book Sense 76; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Children's Choices, 2002 ; International Reading Association; United States
New York Times Notable Books, 2001 ; New York Times; United States
Notable Children's Books in the Language Arts, 2002 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, April 2001 ; Cahners; United States
Reading Magic Awards, 2001 ; Parenting; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Golden Duck Awards Winner 2001 Picture Book United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Colorado Children's Book Award List, 2003 ; Colorado
Baloney (Henry P.)
Jon Scieszka
Illustrated by Lane Smith
When Henry P. Baloney arrives late for school once too often, the teacher tells him he will have lifelong detention unless he has "one very good and very believable excuse." Henry lives up to his name and impresses her with his account of blasting off into space and landing on the planet Astrosus. Fortunately, he had his zimulis (pencil) with him and with its help, he was able to escape and finally arrive at school, seven minutes late. Borrowing words from several languages such as Finnish, Polish, Swahili, Dutch and Estonian, as well as a few transpositions and spoonerisms, Scieszka has put a new twist on a familiar problem. Smith has created an expressive and likeable green alien. There is plenty of movement and action in the drawings. Aliens, space rockets and imaginative constellations are all part of the whimsical illustrations. Text and pictures come together to help the reader decipher the foreign words. The words Scieszka has selected have wonderful sounds. Such a fun way to play with words and sounds, and this is sure to elicit giggles from the primary grade crowd while stimulating the imagination. 2001, Viking/Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers, $15.99, Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo.
ISBN: 0-670-89248-3
Best Books:
Children's Book Sense 76 Picks, Fall 2001 ; Book Sense 76; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Children's Choices, 2002 ; International Reading Association; United States
New York Times Notable Books, 2001 ; New York Times; United States
Notable Children's Books in the Language Arts, 2002 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, April 2001 ; Cahners; United States
Reading Magic Awards, 2001 ; Parenting; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Golden Duck Awards Winner 2001 Picture Book United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Colorado Children's Book Award List, 2003 ; Colorado
Bewildered for Three Days: As to Why Daniel Boone Never Wore His Coonskin Cap
Andrew Glass
Daniel Boone is a young lad with an "itch in his foot" that leads him to adventure and trouble, time and time again. After befriending an Indian boy just his age, Daniel learns the ways of the forest3/4how to track animals and how to become one with the shadows of the woods. His passion for wandering leads him to an encounter with a bear, a near escape with some unfriendly Indians and a covenant with a raccoon mother "never to again wear any of your kin on my head." This delightfull action-packed, historical fiction tale is a treasure for any bookshelf. The author cleverly educates the reader about young Daniel Boone through folklore adventure that reveals much more than the reason behind a missing coonskin cap. There is an informative and helpful author's note at the book's conclusion with factual information about Boone's life and his eventual survey of the Cumberland Mountains. The illustrations are pencil and oil pastel drawings that are as lively as the text and give additional depth and expression to an enjoyable tale.
2000, Holiday House, $16.95 Reviewer: Andrea Sears Andrews
ISBN: 0-8234-1446-9
Big Jabe
Jerdine Nolen
Illustrated by Kadir Nelson
Jabe is the larger-than-life hero of this original tall tale of life on the plantation in the days of slavery. Arriving magically in a basket floating on the river, he immediately seems to cause miraculous events, while in no time at all he does the ever-harder work set to the slaves. The wicked overseer resents the way Jabe makes their lives pleasanter. But each time he tries to punish one of the slaves, that slave is magically spirited away. Jabe eventually moves on, but everywhere he goes "burdens are lifted." This picture of plantation life puts reality next to the spirit of hope and freedom that burned within. Nelson's naturalistic colored drawings describe a rural South with lush fields, healthy animals, nasty overseer and kindly slaves. Even the few scenes of mistreatment are bathed in a romantic light that softens the evil. Although the text hints at some benign magic, only a scene of fish jumping from the river actually shows this. The scenes chosen from the lengthy text provide a real sense of place and characters. 2000, HarperCollins Juvenile Books, $15.95. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-688-13662-1
Best Books:
Bulletin Blue Ribbons, 2000 ; Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books; United States
Capitol Choices, 2000 ; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, April 2000 ; Cahners; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Georgia Children's Literature Awards, 2003 ; Georgia
Bo & Mzzz Mad
Sid Fleischman
Mark Twain once wrote that "a Kentucky feud never ends." Sid Fleischman says that is the phrase that inspired Bo & Mzzz Mad, a 20th century version of the Hatfields and McCoys set in the Mojave Desert of California. Bo Gamage, a newly orphaned teenager, has been invited to visit the opposing Martinkas by an aunt who married into the family but not into the feud. That would be Aunt Juna, who takes care of Mzzz Mad, a thirteen-year-old who drives her own red pick up truck, and Charlie, an aging cowboy who used to be in the movies and still puts on spurs and a gun belt everyday. The story is a quick and easy read, with bits of old anger and newfound caring, adventures with rattlesnakes and desert robbers, legends of hidden goldmines and stolen maps. Fleischman lets readers in on a few secrets at the end-like the newspaper story he'd seen about thieves betrayed by mothball-scented paper money-giving young readers some clues about where to find good material for their own story writing.
2001, Greenwillow, Ages 8 to 14, $14.95 and $14.89. Reviewer: Karen Leggett
ISBN: 0-06-029397-7
ISBN: 0-06-029398-5
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, March 2001 ; Cahners; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
The Nene Award, 2003 ; Hawaii
Rhode Island Children's Book Award, 2003 ; Rhode Island
Buttons
Brock Cole
Brock Cole's Buttons is an original tale that weds classic fairy tale themes of the fool hero and the siblings searching for success. Cole turns pen and brush to sophisticated illustration and word play to create a picture book that lifts both spirit and mind. His tale begins with a man who has popped his buttons and seeks help from his daughters who are willing, if not intellectually able. The eldest plans to dress up and request a button dowry from the rich man she snags with her beauty. The second daughter will join the army for surely you have noticed that a soldier's uniform has many, many buttons. The youngest decides to run in the meadows with her apron open so that if any buttons should fall from the sky, I will catch them before they get lost in the tall grass. Of course all three daughters marry happily and the youngest satisfies her father's need, fulfilling both fairy tale tradition and reader satisfaction. It takes an older child to admire the rollicking word play, the genius of the story's structure, and a sense of humor more satirical than overt. Like stand-up comics, this author shows a perfect sense of timing and succeeds with both smiles and stages. For success in the battle with stress, choose a few appropriate funny books like this for children, read at least one daily or when needed to immediately improve sour moods. 2000, Farrar, $16.00. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
ISBN: 0-374-31001-7
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Bulletin Blue Ribbons, 2000 ; Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books; United States
Capitol Choices, 2000 ; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Books of Distinction, 2001 ; Riverbank Review; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2001 ; Children's Literature; United States
Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 2000 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Fanfare Honor List, 2000 ; Horn Book; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, January 2000 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, April 2000 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 2000 ; Cahners; United States
Smithsonian Magazine's Notable Books for Children, 2000 ; Smithsonian; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Boston Globe--Horn Book Awards Honor Book 2000 Picture Book United States
New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Books of the Year Winner 2000 United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
West Virginia Children's Book Award, 2002-2003 ; West Virginia
Clever Beatrice
Margaret Willey
Illustrations by Heather Solomon
Although this story is based on an amalgam of several French-Canadian contes about rich and powerful giants, as told in mining and lumbering camps, the protagonist is a wily young girl instead of a leathery voyageur. She and her mother are so poor that they are down to their last bowls of porridge, and in desperation, Beatrice decides to match wits with the local giant, who loves to gamble and has a lot of money. Secure in the knowledge that he is larger and stronger, the dimwitted giant is delighted and challenges her to outdo him in hitting a door, carrying water and throwing an iron bar. Thinking quickly and creatively, Beatrice manipulates each situation so cleverly that the giant is convinced he will lose each contest before it even begins and gives her his silver bag of gold coins as her winnings. Written with a nice storytelling rhythm, this tall tale has bright multimedia illustrations featuring a clunky giant and a sharp-faced, skinny little girl in a patched red dress against a background of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, with its pine trees, red earth, log cabins, lumberjacks and wildflowers. 2001, Atheneum Books for Young Readers, $16.00, Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Patricia Dole.
ISBN: 0-689-83254-0
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Bulletin Blue Ribbons, 2001 ; Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books; United States
Capitol Choices, 2001 ; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Fanfare Honor List, 2001 ; Horn Book; United States
Notable Books for Children, 2002 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Parent's Guide to Children's Media, 2001 ; Parent's Guide to Children's Media, Inc.; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, July 2001 ; Cahners; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Georgia Children's Literature Awards, 2003 ; Georgia
Michigan Reader's Choice Award, 2003 ; Michigan
North Carolina Children's Book Award, 2003 ; North Carolina
A Cowboy Named Ernestine
Nicole Rubel
When Ernestine O'Reilly arrives in Lizard Lick, Texas from Ireland as a mail-order bride, she finds her future husband and his family too awful for her to stay. Disguised as Ernest T., she runs away and into dashing Texas Teeth, who teaches her how to be a cowboy on the trail. When the herd is delivered in Abilene, Ernestine still doesn't have enough money to return to Ireland, so she enters the Rodeo. Despite the treachery of Greasy Weasel, all ends predictably happily, with the humor reinforced by Ernestine's great tall tale, which becomes the favorite of the children she has with Texas Teeth. The pictures, which set the tongue-in-cheek tone, are poster-like in their use of informational details, clear, saturated colors and frozen action, while loaded with sly humor. The stylized illustrations in black ink and colored markers depict odd-ball characters, absurd signs and an armadillo (never mentioned in the text), which arrives on Ernestine's stagecoach and appears somewhere in each scene, an artistic conceit sure to catch the eye of perceptive readers. It's all in fun in this Western fairy tale. 2001, Dial Books for Young Readers/Penguin Putnam, $15.99, Ages 4 to 8. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz.
ISBN: 0-8037-2152-8
Cowboy Sam and Those Confounded Secrets
Kitty Griffin and Kathy Combs
Illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka
Cowboy Sam is the most popular man in Dry Gulch. Why? It's because he can keep a secret better than anyone else in town. If someone shares a secret with Sam, he tells them, "I'll keep it under my hat." And that's exactly where the secret goes. One day, however, Sam's hat pops off and refuses to stay on. The townspeople are worried. What will happen to their secrets? Sam is saddened that he has let the town down. But he finds a new place to safeguard secrets, a place that will never get too full. Colorful watercolor illustrations illuminate this lighthearted tale. 2001, Clarion Books, Ages 5 to 8, $15.00. Reviewer: Christopher Moning
ISBN: 0-618-08854-7
Best Books:
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, July 2001 ; Cahners; United States
Davy Crockett Saves the World
Rosalyn Schanzer
There was a real frontiersman named Davy Crockett, but the legends that he inspired went far beyond the facts. Here, Davy saves the world when Halley's Comet is aiming right at it. Although he is really only interested in impressing Sally Sugartree, he answers the call of the president and tackles that whirlwind comet, finally hurling it off, to the acclaim of the public and Sally. The humor of the down-home telling is matched by the cartoon-y feeling of the color illustrations done in the style of some animated films. Davy's muscles bulge, Sally is all blonde curls and gingham, his pet black bear sports sharp claws, and the other incidental animals all add their comic touches. Most scenes are double pages, barely large enough to hold the superhero's adventures. There are notes about both the real Davy and the legends about him. 2001, HarperCollins, Ages 5 to 9, $16.95. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-688-16991-0
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Children's Choices, 2002 ; International Reading Association; United States
Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 2001 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Black-Eyed Susan Book Award Nominees, 2003 ; Maryland
The Dictionary of Folklore
David A. Leeming
General Editor: Marilee Foglesong
Did King Arthur pull the sword Excalibur out of the stone? Is Bigfoot real? How did Abraham Lincoln earn the nickname "Honest Abe?" In more than 150 entries, this single volume dictionary covers legends, fables, fairy tales, tall tales, nursery tales, and legendary historical figures like Jesse James. Clearly written text helps young readers understand sacred stories and creation myths in different religions, and separates myth from reality in larger-than-life people such as Johnny Appleseed and Davy Crockett. Alphabetical entries are broken into subheads and supplemented by photographs, archival illustrations, and sidebars with summaries of legends or fairy tales. Back matter includes an in-depth bibliography and an index. This volume would be a useful reference for elementary age students. 2002, Franklin Watts, $34.00. Ages 8 to 11. Reviewer: Candice Ransom
ISBN: 0531119858
Dory Story
Jerry Pallotta
Illustrations by David Biedrzycki
Although he has been told never to go out in a boat alone, Danny is lured by his curiosity to go rowing in the bay. The journey turns from fascinating to frightening, until we find he has imagined it all while in the bathtub. But on the imaginary voyage he follows the food chain or web from plankton through sand eels, mackerels, bluefish, tuna, and whales. The simple text in large blue type gives readers an anxious few moments when Danny's boat capsizes before we find him safe in the tub. What at first glance appear to be color photographic illustrations are finely rendered paintings. The artist fills most of the double page spreads with pictures of our hero in his boat with factual fishy action in the water. He adds tiny vignettes as decorative devices. But the pages are designed to add emotional impact, as when a "humungous" humpback whale breaches across two pages of pale blue. 2000, Talewinds/Charlesbridge, $15.95, Ages 4 to 8. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz.
ISBN: 0-88106-075-5
Best Books:
Children's Choices, 2001 ; International Reading Association; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Children's Book Award Silver Medal Winner 2002 Florida
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Children's Book Award, 2001-2002 ; Florida
North Carolina Children's Book Award, 2003 ; North Carolina
Virginia Young Readers Program, 2000-2001 ; Virginia
Dory Story
Jerry Pallotta
Illustrations by David Biedrzycki
Handsome art plays up the color of sea and sky, night and day, over and under perspective. The reader easily identifies with the boy, enjoying what he sees, hearing the sounds of the action, and remembering experiences. Suspense builds as the boy takes risks, observes, worries, and is afraid. Although terrified, the boy keeps thinking and makes decisions, struggling to save himself. Then his mom's voice breaks the spell and we know the truth-the adventure is a story told in the tub. The facts of the food chain are vividly presented and have a strong impact. This is a beautiful experience. I believe it will be revisited often. 2000, Talewinds/Charlesbridge, $15.95, Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Margarette Reid.
ISBN: 0-88106-075-5
Best Books:
Children's Choices, 2001 ; International Reading Association; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Children's Book Award Silver Medal Winner 2002 Florida
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Children's Book Award, 2001-2002 ; Florida
North Carolina Children's Book Award, 2003 ; North Carolina
Virginia Young Readers Program, 2000-2001 ; Virginia
Fearless Jack
Paul Brett Johnson
Jack's mother sends him out into the world to get a job. When he stops to eat his sorghum biscuit, some pesky yellow jackets begin to buzz around his sandwich. Jack hits them with his cap and is so proud of getting rid of so many that he writes across his cap, "Fearless Jack Killed Ten at a Whack." He walks into town where he is greeted by the sheriff who offers Jack a reward if he can get rid of the varmints terrorizing the town. Jack, of course, succeeds in getting rid of the three critters in rather unique ways and returns home with his reward. Johnson's folksy style is perfectly suited to the tall-tale humor of the text. His cartoon-style illustrations are full of movement, and he creates wonderful expressions on the human and animal faces. Johnson provides background about the origin of the Appalachian Jack tales. Those familiar with European tales will recognize this as a variant of "The Brave Little Tailor," which is sometimes called "Seven with One Blow." Johnson's ending leaves the reader with the impression that another Jack tale will be coming. I, for one, certainly look forward to it. 2001, Margaret K. McElderry Books/Simon & Schuster, Ages 5 to 9, $16.00. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 0-689-83296-6
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Black-Eyed Susan Book Award Nominees, 2003 ; Maryland
North Carolina Children's Book Award, 2003 ; North Carolina
Volunteer State Book Award, 2004 ; Tennessee
A Fish Named Spot
Jennifer P. Goldfinger
Simon wants a pet more than anything in the world. Aunt Loretta, a world traveler, brings him a dog from England. He loves his new pet but it makes him itch and sneeze. When she returns from Africa she brings a fish from Lake Tanganyika. She buys a fish tank but forgets to buy fish food. Simon decides to name his fish Spot, since that is what he had wanted to name his dog. That evening, Simon notices that Spot is looking droopy. Not having any fish food, Simon decides to give Spot some dog biscuits. When Simon wakes up the next morning Spot is gone. When he looks around, he sees Spot, as big as a dog. They play at the park, and Spot even learns to do tricks. One day, Spot hangs his fishy head. He misses his tank and water. Simon tries everything to make Spot happy but the fish wants his tank. The next day, Spot fills the house with water and swims in the living room, in the kitchen, in the bedroom3/4all over the house. When Simon's mother opens the door the water spills out and so do Simon and Spot. When Spot is found he is in a puddle, very happy. Now Simon takes Spot for walks but he stays in his tank. 2001, Little Brown, Ages 4 to 8, $14.95. Reviewer: Karen Werner
ISBN: 0-316-32047-1
Forbidden Forest: The Story of Little John and Robin Hood
Michael Cadnum
This retelling of the story of Little John and Robin Hood begins with John's career as a ferry boat driver, traces his involvement with and departure from the outlaw, Red Roger, and eventually tells of the fellowship he enjoys in the company of Robin Hood and his merry band. A related plot line woven into John's tale deals with the gentle-woman, Margaret. She is betrothed to a knight for whom she has neither love nor respect, only to find him murdered on their wedding night. Believing that she and her father will be framed by Henry, the sheriff's greedy second-hand man, Margaret and her maidservant, Bridget, follow the advice of a friend and head to the forbidden forest. There they meet Robin Hood and Little John, and there Margaret falls in mutual love with Little John. Cadnum's attention to historical detail is impressive. Readers are given a clear sense of life in the towns and forests of medieval England, dung heaps, stout ale, and all. Particularly telling are the descriptions of the wedding and the feast that follows; the presentation of gender roles is both historically accurate and thought-provoking. Although Cadnum succeeds in creating a clear vision of setting, his choice of details is occasionally questionable considering the young age of his presumed audience. He describes the violent death of a convicted child rapist, includes reference to a lewd song about "the rock between the sticks" and a rude phrase for the female privy parts, and mentions a sexual dream that John has while hiding out in the forest. Fast-paced and suspenseful at times, the novel will be particularly appealing to readers with strong stomachs and the desire for adventure. 2002, Orchard Books/Scholastic, $17.95. Ages 10 to 16. Reviewer: Wendy Glenn
ISBN: 0439317746
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 2003 ; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
Smithsonian Magazine's Notable Books for Children, 2002 ; Smithsonian; United States
Top 10 Youth Romances, 2002 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Grandpa Never Lies
Ralph Fletcher
Illustrated by Harvey Stevenson
This provocative title attracts us, yet begs to be proven. However, the strong voice of a granddaughter who believes shows us how this can be true. The warmth of the pictures and the gentle tone of the text win over the reader who would challenge her enthusiasm. The tall tale provides an opportunity for lovely fantasy and fun in the art. The swift sadness of a grandmother's death is overcome by love. Time continues to be spent together in all the seasons as they come. This book can open the way to conversations in our own families and invites us to spend time together and enjoy it, as long as we have it. 2000, Clarion Books, $15.00. Reviewer: Margarette Reid
ISBN: 0-395-79770-5
Jack Outwits the Giants
Adapted and illustrated by Paul Brett Johnson
On a dark and stormy night Jack was forced to take shelter in a nearby farmhouse. Imagine his surprise at meeting a barn loft-sized woman and her two-headed, "mud-fence ugly" husband. Weary of eating cornmeal mush, the two giants cooked up a plot to enrich their diet with Jack! Although they were whispering, giants' whispers sounded like "hog calls" to boys. Jack hid while the giant-man pounded his pallet, sure that this was the end of the boy. When Jack came down for breakfast the two evil ones were convinced that he had been bewitched. In order to prove that he was indeed bewitched, and save his hide, Jack was given three impossible tasks. Being a clever and cool-headed boy, Jack pulled several fast ones on the giant pair. With rollicking dialect set to colorful action paintings, comes Johnson's second "Jack Tale." Taken from stories of his childhood, the author has recorded Appalachian versions of the classic fairy tale about Jack, the giant killer. Good fun awaits the readers of this tall tale! 2002, Margaret K. McElderry Books/Simon & Schuster, $16.00. Ages 5 to 9. Reviewer: Laura Hummel
ISBN: 0689839022
Best Books:
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2002 ; Children's Literature; United States
Kate and the Beanstalk
Mary Pope Osborne
Illustrated by Giselle Potter
Much to her mother's great consternation, Kate trades their cow for a few magic beans. Her mother tosses them out the window, and the beanstalk grows high into the sky. When Kate climbs the beanstalk, she meets an old woman who tells her that the castle she sees once belonged to a knight and his wife. Kate agrees to go to the castle and retrieve three precious treasures from the giant. The familiar old tale has been rewritten with a plucky, resourceful heroine and a lively, often humorous, pleasing-to-the-ear text. Potter's perspectives stretch the reader's imagination. The giant is truly a menacing figure. Effective use of line and the soft palette bring out the drama and the wonder of this cleverly retold tale. 2000, Atheneum, $16.00. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 0-689-82550-1
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Capitol Choices, 2000 ; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2001 ; Children's Literature; United States
Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 2000 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Notable Books for Children, 2001 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, September 2000 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, October 2000 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 2000 ; Cahners; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Volunteer State Book Award, 2004 ; Tennessee
Washington Children's Choice Picture Book Award, 2002 ; Washington
Kiss the Cow!
Phyllis Root
Illustrated by Will Hillenbrand
"Mama May lived where the earth met the sky," along with more children than she could count. Thanks to her magic cow, Luella, she has milk for breakfast and cheese for supper. But there is a magic song she must sing, and then she must kiss Luella "right on the end of her velvety, brown nose." Annalisa, the most curious and stubborn of the children, reacts to this with "Ughhh!" But Annalisa wants to discover what it's like to milk a magic cow. Her refusal to give the necessary kiss causes the catastrophe expected in such legends. Stubborn Annalisa finally gives in to the pleas of the hungry children, with a delightful result. Hillenbrand uses a few irregular black lines and subtle, modeled colors with his mixed media-on-vellum to create personalities that we care about. The illustrations delightfully illuminate the family, the character of Annalisa and the dismay of the tearful cow. The happy resolution is a heart-warming close-up that oozes with contentment. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-7636-0298-1
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Capitol Choices, 2000 ; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Arkansas Diamond Primary Book Reading List, 2003 ; Arkansas
Maryland Children's Book Award, 2003 ; Maryland
The Legend of Strap Buckner: A Texas Tale
Retold by Connie Nordhielm Wooldridge
Illustrated by Andrew Glass
Back in old Texas, Strap's genius was "knocking folks down." Being basically gentle, he nursed them back to health, but just can't seem to stop knocking them down again. When he challenges the Devil, his pride is almost his downfall. The legendary encounter has an uncertain outcome, but Strap may well have given the Devil "what for." The tall tale, with some basis in fact, is brought to life in lively fashion by Glass's animated color drawings, which almost crowd the lines of text off the pages with the rough-hewn comic incidents. The struggle and ultimate frenzied horseback ride of Strap and the Devil make a suitable climax. An Author's Note fills in the facts along with the legend. 2001, Holiday House, Ages 4 to 8, $16.95. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-8234-1536-8
Look Out, Jack! The Giant Is Back!
Tom Birdseye
Illustrated by Will Hillenbrand
Remember Jack, the boy who outsmarted a giant and relieved him of his coins, magic harp and golden egg-laying hen? Well, it seems that the giant has a brother who is even bigger and meaner and wants revenge. "Wham blam hickity hack! I'm gonna get that boy named Jack! He now be living, but soon he'll roast! I'll spread him with mustard and eat him on toast!" Mr. Giant has followed Jack and his mom to the mountains of North Carolina. There, the giant is dished up some southern hospitality...three hundred seventy-three platters of fried chicken, six hundred pounds of mashed potatoes, and all kinds of other goodies. The greedy giant eats it all, including the dishes. He is so full that when Jack makes his escape with all his loot, Mr. Giant cannot move. But the giant is clever and has one more trick up his sleeve, or should we say sock? In a lively, upbeat style comes a rollicking tale full of humor and repetition. The imaginative artwork will be hugely appealing to the young at heart. 2001, Holiday House, Ages 4 to 8, $16.95. Reviewer: Laura Hummel
ISBN: 0-8234-1450-7
ISBN: 0-82341-776-X
Look Out, Jack! The Giant Is Back!
Tom Birdseye
Illustrated by Will Hillenbrand
The happy ending after Jack cuts down the beanstalk is only the beginning of a new Jack tale. For the giant's big brother follows Jack and his mother to America, eager for revenge, and with his own rhythmic chants to shake the windows. But clever Jack manages to outwit the giant after a close call, and to have some fun with the reader while doing it. Hillenbrand's mixed media, double-page scenes illuminate the narrative while adding many comic details-a flower-smelling skunk, Jack's mother hiding in the outhouse, and more. The lighthearted use of tints of color and fluency of line fill the pages with action to match the lively text. 2001, Holiday House, Ages 4 to 8, $16.95. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-8234-1450-7
ISBN: 0-82341-776-X
Master Man: A Tall Tale of Nigeria
Told by Aaron Shepherd
Illustrations by David Wisniewski
Yellow, orange, and brown predominate in Wisniewski's bold, three-dimensional cut paper artwork that makes this tall tale about strongmen literally jump off the page. Packed with bravado and humor, the energized spreads are reminiscent of superhero comics, with all the dialogue in white bubbles, and sound effects like "ROAR" and "SPLASH" seeming to shake the pages. When Master Man brags about his incredible strength, his wife cautions him that he could meet someone even stronger. Thus the stage is set for not one, but two boastful giants, one casually carrying an elephant for his midday meal. In a tale that bears similarities to Jack and the Beanstalk, readers witness the foolishness of vanity, and learn the Nigerian folktale explanation for thunder as the giants take their battle to the skies. The text is spare and precise, allowing the drama of the illustrations to flesh out the tale with rattling bones, crashing boulders and combative bodies. Wit and vitality keep the violence from being over the top, making this a comical and vibrant story to act out or to read aloud, and one that will be especially appealing to boys. 2001, HarperCollins, Ages 5 to 9, $15.95 and $15.89. Reviewer: Betty Hicks
ISBN: 0-688-13783-0
ISBN: 0-688-13784-9
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, February 2001 ; Cahners; United States
Mountain Men: True Grit and Tall Tales
Andrew Glass
Given the title, one thinks of the big-voiced braggarts of the west, but Glass is more expansive and begins with the Louisiana Purchase and Lewis and Clark's expedition, from which John Coulter later split to try his hand at trapping. A discussion of the fur trade provides the historical background necessary to understand the times that spawned the American invention, so it is said, of the Tall Tale. Then we return to Coulter, the first mountain man under discussion, who ran afoul of the Blackfoot tribe and, stripped naked, escaped his pursuers and ran for over a week three hundred miles downstream to a fort. Other stories include the true life and tall-tale-doings of westerners Jedidiah Strong Smith, Hugh Glass, Jim Bridger, Jim Beckwourth (whose mother was black, his father white), the Mississippi boatman Mike Fink and the Southwest's Kit Carson. Glass includes information about the times, such as the beginning and end of the rendezvous where people gathered to trade, talk, fight and stock up; the rise and fall of the beaver hat; and the settling of parts of the west. The facts surrounding each legendary figure include the man's birthplace, something about his life, death, and enough stories to make the legend memorable. Glass's watercolor illustrations are tinted with mountain browns and prairie grays and golds and take a humorous look at the scenes, but they are too fuzzy and murky to convey to large story-listening crowds. As a supplement to American social studies units for upper elementary children, selections from this book would make great read-alouds. Endmatter includes a picture glossary of "Mountain Man Necessaries," a dictionary of mountain man lingo and a bibliography of adult sources. There is also a note, a sort of apologia for the mountain man's less-than-tender sensibilities but an appreciation of their inspirational nature to thousands of adventurous pioneers. 2001, Doubleday, Ages 8 to 12, $17.99 and $15.95. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0-385-90841-5
ISBN: 0-385-32555-X
Best Books:
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young Readers, 2002 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, June 2001 ; Cahners; United States
Peg and the Whale
Kenneth Oppel
Illustrations by Terry Widener
In this rollicking tall tale of an indomitable lass on the bright blue sea, Peg wants to be "best." Having caught every other fish imaginable, she sets her sights on a whale, and signs onto a whaling ship despite the mean-looking crew. She actually hooks a whale, but ends up inside him. After a series of zany adventures inside and out, she manages to return to her mother and father's ship. But she is soon off again, to be the best at some new venture. She's quite a gal. Widener's mostly double-page paintings are as boldly conceived as the yarn itself. The cartoon-y characters are rounded like animated dolls; the oceans are overlapping panels of textured blue. The scenes inside the whale make an interesting comparison with those in Disney's Pinocchio, but the emphasis here is always about the unwavering heroics of this brash, slicker-clad redhead. 2000, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, $16.95, Ages 5 to 8. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz.
ISBN: 0-689-82423-8
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 2000 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Rattletrap Car
Phyllis Root
Illustrations by Jill Barton
On a boiling hot day at home on the farm, there is only one sensible thing for a family to do-pack up some toys and a picnic and head for the cool lake. The journey in the old rattletrap car is anything but smooth, what with a flat tire-"boomsssssss," a collapsing floor3/4"whumpety whomp!" and the gas tank and the engine falling off3/4"spitter spitter sput!" and "thunketa thunk!" However, the tall-tale use of a beach ball, a surfboard, a thermos of "razzleberry dazzleberry snazzleberry fizz" and a "three-speed, wind-up, paddle-wheel boat" save the car and save the day, enabling the father and his children to reach the lake and enjoy a cooling swim before heading back home. Jill Barton's bright, humorous illustrations provide a perfect counterpart to the rambunctious text, and include a variety of friendly animals who watch the old rattletrap car at each stage of its dramatic journey. 2001, Candlewick Press, Ages 4 to 7, $15.99. Reviewer: Barbara Maitland
ISBN: 0-7636-0919-6
Rattletrap Car
Phyllis Root
Illustrated by Jill Barton
Poppa takes the kids on an onomatopoetic journey in Rattletrap Car. But the ancient vehicle seems to be sputtering, muttering and going nowhere fast until the family's picnic gets put to surprising use. Jill Barton's expressive watercolors are a fine match for Phyllis Root's exuberant text, with its oh-so-cool conclusion. 2001, Candlewick, Ages 2 to 6, $15.99. Reviewer: Mary Quattlebaum
ISBN: 0-7636-0919-6
The Red Wolf
Margaret Shannon
This clever and amusing twist of fairy tale traditions concerns poor little princess Roselupin, locked in a tower by her father to keep her safe from the world. On her seventh birthday, a gift arrives, a box filled with balls of yarn and a note saying "Knit what you want." Roselupin knits herself a red wolf suit, in which she grows so large she bursts the tower, leaves, and enjoys her freedom. But when she returns to normal size, her father, fearing that the wolf had taken her, puts her in an even taller tower. Roselupin then knits something special for the king, and for a surprise ending. The mixed media scenes depict a typical European fairy tale village with king, peasants, and verdant forest along with a charming heroine. There is melodramatic magic in the transformations, particularly in the sequence of the "wolf" disappearing in the ever-darkening forest. The final surprise is only in the illustration, and is a bit of low-key horror. 2002, Houghton Mifflin Company, $15.00. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0618055444
Best Books:
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, January 2002 ; Cahners; United States
Robin Hook: Pirate Hunter!
Eric A. Kimmel
Illustrated by Michael Dooling
In an unbelievable swashbuckling tale of child pirates, Kimmel lives out his own childhood dream to be a pirate. With a twist of old tales, Kimmel borrows the name Robin from British mythology and the name Hook from J. M. Barrie's Peter Pan to create his protagonist, Robin Hook. Robin, raised to be a pirate, wants only to spare the world from pirate thieves. After being abandoned, he finds other children on the island and with them builds a ship and begins his efforts to control the hated pirates. Ever successful, the children become celebrated heroes who are feared by "real" pirates. Although a far-fetched tale to adults, the imagination of children, especially boys, will be sparked with this story. Dooling's oil on canvas art, including the map of Hispaniola, adds much to the tale. His use of light, dark and motion is quite good. For fans of Eric Kimmel, this original tale is one that will be enjoyed along with his retellings of old tales. 2001, Scholastic Press, Ages 7 to 10, $15.95. Reviewer: J. B. Petty
ISBN: 0-590-68199-0
ISBN: 0-590-68219-9
Scatterbrain Sam
Ellen Jackson
Illustrated by Matt Faulkner
Sam "didn't know nothing about nothing." He decides to ask the Widder Woman for a potion to fix his brains. But he has some problem obtaining the ingredients she requires for the glue stew she is mixing. Along comes Maizie Mae, who has set her cap for Sam. She helps him solve the Widder Woman's riddles, and after a wild accident with that stew, ends up in his arms where she belongs. Faulkner's colored drawings set appealing personalities in environments rich with details beyond the text and with a sly sense of humor. Clothing and architecture suggest small-town America in the 1930s, with charming Maizie May flying a vintage plane and the Widder Woman a surprisingly deft mechanic. A Source Note explains the changes made in the original folk tale. 2001, A Charlesbridge Imprint/Whispering Coyote, $15.95, Ages 4 to 8. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-88106-394-0
Steamboat Annie and the Thousand-Pound Catfish
Catherine Wright
Illustrations by Howard Fine
The handsome, wholesome heroine is born juggling catfish in the town of Pleasant, on the banks of the Ohio River, and grows taller than any man. Pleasant is a joyous community where every person and animal loves to sing. In fact, the soprano soloist in the church choir is an elegant cow. All this music infuriates Ernie, the thousand-pound catfish who lurks in the river nearby. He retaliates by eating a number of boats and biting off half of the church, which discommodes many of Pleasant's citizens. Steamboat Annie vows to catch him. Meanwhile, Jefferson Jackson, a slimy, mustachioed villain, who is opposing Annie in the mayoralty race, teams up with the giant catfish to get rid of her. Undaunted and neatly dressed in a red jumper, white blouse and beribboned straw hat, Annie hooks Ernie and fights him all the way down the Ohio to the mouth of the Mississippi and back, while playing the calliope with her toes. Victorious at last, she flings the spent catfish all the way to California, and Jackson disappears. The boats and church are rebuilt, and the town populace sings more vigorously than ever. Written in a lilting, storytelling tone, the book is humorously and vigorously illustrated in luminous acrylics. 2001, Philomel Books, $15.99, Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Patricia Dole
ISBN: 0-399-23331-8
Summerland
Michael Chabon
In Summerland, Michael Chabon mixes the symbolism of baseball and the myths of many cultures. His hero, young Ethan Feld, is in transition. His mother dead, Ethan and his inventor father are newly arrived in Summerland, Washington. Summerland is a magical place where the sun always shines and baseball is big. Ethan is not good at baseball. He learns under pressure when he enters a parallel world with a feisty teammate, Jennifer T. He must outplay the trickster, Coyote, to save his father and the world. There are brilliant lines and the classic good and evil theme works well. The dialogue, especially Coyote's, sparkles and defines character wonderfully. But Chabon's 500-page book feels as if it was written by a man restrained by reality for too many years. There is an appearance by every magical creature you can imagine. There are ghosts, giants, tall-tale heroes, ferishers (Native American fey folk), goblins, a Sasquatch, werebeasts, changelings, and more! Each character comes with explanations as complicated as a baseball manual. Their legends mix with Chabon's reinventions in a mishmash of magic. Chabon's razzle dazzle and excess references overwhelm rather than convince. 2002, Hyperion, $22.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
ISBN: 0786808772
ISBN: 0786816155
Summerland
Michael Chabon
Ethan Feld is a hopeless baseball player on Ruth's Fluff-N'-Fold Roosters, a team of losers playing summer league somewhere near Bellingham on the fictional Clam Island in Washington state. Unexpectedly, Ethan is approached by Cutbelly, a Werefox and Shadowtail, who can travel to the Four Worlds. He is scouting for a hero and needs Ethan's help against the coming end-of-the-world "Ragged Rock." So begins a journey of unlikely companions as Ethan and two fellow teammates journey to Summerland to form a team of sorts to play ball to save the world and Worlds. In Summerland, the great trickster Coyote is ready to put the Worlds down by poisoning the well that feeds the great tree on which the four World branches grow. Chabon manages to convey to readers the marvel of these inter-existing Worlds by fashioning a specific magic. In this magic leaves of a tree quadrant touch another quadrant, or "pleach," and travelers who know how can enter one of the Worlds through the link. Coyote, however, has been hacking these pleaches apart. The author knows how to keep many threads of a plot going, as evidenced here and in his adult book, The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay. Ethan's widower father, Bruce Feld, is an inventor whose talents and creations Coyote needs in order to succeed with his evil plan. The many characters, the many mythologies, and the American folklore Chabon moves readers through can easily overwhelm a reader. There's the "ferisher" world of fairies led by a chief, Cinquefoil; giants; a changeling; a Sasquatch named Taffy; La Llarona or "The Weeping Woman;" the Tall People led by Annie Christmas who played on Ethan's tag team; a hundred-year-old scout from the Negro leagues; and plenty of Native American lore including the faked lore of the Wa-He-Ta Braves who nonetheless with their earnestness play a part in Ethan's eventual triumph. Then there are the villains: Coyote and his minions; shadow people; a Bottom-Cat; and a ruthless ball team called the Hobs who agree to play Ethan for his key possession--a bat made from a splinter of wood from the great tree. The book comes in at under five hundred pages and has many marvelous characters including the savvy pitcher, Jennifer T. Rideout, whose parentage includes Salish Indians and a few old aunts who remember Summerland and Thor Wignutt, who really is a human misfit. Other satisfactions include Chabon's masterful hand with real conversation, his inventive plot, contemporary references that surprise, and the doings of the versatile family derigible which lifts an old Saab named Skidbladner. While it's all a bit overwhelming, readers who can conquer Harry Potter's enormousness and are familiar with high fantasy's good versus evil battles won't be bothered by the overloaded nature of this book. The ending is satisfying and understanding depends on the reader's careful remembering of how these Worlds were created. But it will take at least two reads to appreciate all that Chabon has tried to accomplish--and for the most part, has. A big American fantasy based on North American mythologies, folklore, and our sometimes mythical past and the great pastime of baseball. 2002, Hyperion, $22.95. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0786808772
ISBN: 0786816155
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 2003 ; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, June 24, 2002 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, November 2002 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 2002 ; Cahners; United States
Smithsonian Magazine's Notable Books for Children, 2002 ; Smithsonian; United States
Swamp Angel
Anne Isaacs
Illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky
If you are looking for a children's book with a strong female character, Swamp Angel is for you. Swamp Angel is a tall tale in the tradition of Paul Bunyan and Johnny Appleseed. It's a nice change to see a girl in a tall tale who can take care of herself and others. The language in this book is big and bold like the main character herself. Swamp Angel's nemesis is a bear called Thunderin' Tarnation and he is wreaking havoc in the hills of Tennessee. That is, until he meets Swamp Angel, who is determined to stop him cold in his tracks. Many others have tried to stop Thunderin' Tarnation but with no success. The settlers create a reward for the hide of the bear and Swamp Angel decides it will be hers. The men, who are hoping for the reward, taunt Swamp Angel and suggest she should be home "quiltin' and cookin'." This, of course, only hardens Swamp Angel's resolve. When Swamp Angel and Thunderin' Tarnation finally meet, their fight is one of epic proportions. They fight three days and three nights, through a tornado and across the hills of Tennessee where their wrestling causes s a dust storm that creates the Great Smoky Mountains. They even wrestle in their sleep, their snores felling trees and rocking boulders. Swamp Angel snores so loud that she fells the last tree, which falls on Thunderin' Tarnation and the fight is over. Swamp Angel throws Thunderin' Tarnation into the sky where he becomes a constellation. She keeps the bear's hide and eventually spreads it out on the Montana wilderness where it is now known as the short grass prairie. A Caldecott Honor Book. 1994, Dutton, $15.99, Ages 5 to 10. Reviewer: Joan Kindig.
ISBN: 0-525-45271-0
Swamp Angel
Anne Isaacs
Narrated by Allison Moorer
Swamp Angel has all the elements of a true tall tale and boasts stunning illustrations by Paul O. Zelinsky, which adapt nicely to video. Zelinksy designed the book with an old-fashioned look that perfectly complements the story. Not surprisingly, Zelinsky's illustrations garnered the book a Caldecott Honor medal. The narration in this video is well done, with Allison Moorer using a Tennessee drawl. Swamp Angel's nemesis is a bear called Thunderin' Tarnation and he is wreaking havoc in the hills of Tennessee. That is, until he meets Swamp Angel, who is determined to stop him cold in his tracks. Many others have tried to stop Thunderin' Tarnation but with no success. The settlers create a reward for the hide of the bear and Swamp Angel decides it will be hers. The men, who are hoping for the reward, taunt Swamp Angel and suggest she should be home "quiltin' and cookin'." This, of course, only hardens Swamp Angel's resolve. When Swamp Angel and Thunderin' Tarnation finally meet, their fight is one of epic proportions. They fight three days and three nights, through a tornado and across the hills of Tennessee where their wrestling causes s a dust storm that creates the Great Smoky Mountains. They even wrestle in their sleep, their snores felling trees and rocking boulders. Swamp Angel snores so loud that she fells the last tree, which falls on Thunderin' Tarnation and the fight is over. Swamp Angel throws Thunderin' Tarnation into the sky where he becomes a constellation. She keeps the bear's hide and eventually spreads it out on the Montana wilderness where it is now known as the short grass prairie. This is a video well worth owning. Weston Woods includes a teacher's guide on the inside cover of the videocassette complete with extension activities. 2000, Weston Woods/Scholastic, $60.00. Ages 5 to 10. Reviewer: Karen Leggett.
ISBN: 0-78820-758-X
Swamp Angel
Anne Isaacs
Illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky
This is a wonderful tall tale about the greatest woods-woman in Tennessee, a heroine named Swamp Angel. Full of wit, exaggeration and whimsy, this handsome book unfolds the story of a huge woman who single-handedly saved settlers from a fearsome bear named Thundering Tarnation. She also used a tornado like a lasso and drank a lake dry. Swamp Angel, so named after she walked out of the mist to save pioneers from sinking further into a swamp, does many good-hearted deeds using her special size and power. It is a terrific meld of an American frontier-life story with American primitive-style illustrations painted in oils on cherry, maple, and birch veneers. 1994, Dutton, $15.99, Ages 3 to 9. Reviewer: Barbara B. Disckind
ISBN: 0-525-45271-0
Swamp Angel
Ann Isaacs
Paul O. Zelinsky
Ann Isaacs luxuriates in the rhythms, images, and idioms of tall tales as she creates an original character, the Tennessee woodswoman, Swamp Angel, who's "second to none in buckskin bravery." Award-winning illustrator Zelinsky has just as much fun painting primitives on cherry and maple veneers to bring alive the whimsy of the stories and the wild beauty of frontier America. He contributes to the rollicking fun, but does not sacrifice the story to their indulgences. Through a partnership of picture and prose he gives a strong and enduring heroine who's not daunted by the "hoots and taunts" of the coonskin-capped machos or a bear named Tarnation with a pelt "equal to a whole year's hunting." Swamp Angel, which won a Caldecott-honor medal, introduces frontier life with a heroine and humor that is sure to engage children. 1994, Dutton, $15.99, Ages 5 to 9. Reviewer: Susie Wilde.
ISBN: 0-525-45271-0
Swamp Angel
Anne Isaacs
Illustrated by Paul Zelinsky
Thundering Tarnation, a rampaging bear, has Tennessee terrified until that bigger than life heroine Swamp Angel determines to have that bear's pelt. The two match strength and wits in a 3-day battle. The victorious Angel praises the bear, "Confound it, varmint, if you warn't the most wondrous heap of trouble I ever come to grips with." Tall tale language crackles with originality. The sensational art work is painted on cherry and maple veneers. Each scene ripples with energy and wild and wooly action. An all-American hoe-down worthy of a Caldecott Medal. 1994, Dutton, $15.99, Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Jan Lieberman.
ISBN: 0-525-45271-0
Ten Tall Tales: Origins, Activities & More
Phyllis J. Perry
Did you ever wonder how moon craters or the Rockies were formed? You can find some pretty "tall" answers here in this collection for teachers and storytellers. The majority of American tall-tale characters are male, a reflection of the times in which they were created and flourished. Nine of the ten here are males, some based on real people and some purely fictional: Johnny Appleseed, Mike Fink, Davy Crockett, Paul Bunyan, Pecos Bill, Stormalong, Febold Feboldson, John Henry, and Joe Magarac. Annie Oakley is one female included. Davy Crockett's wife and Mike Fink's daughter are both mentioned along with some of their tall feats. Perry has used several sources to develop her summaries. She follows these summaries with a factual history. Each section gives the reader several related books to follow up on the topic. In the third section she provides Internet resources and presents activities that cross the curriculum. Tall tales make marvelous introductions to American history as they center around various aspects such as westward expansion, the growth of industries, inventions that altered jobs, historical events, and so much more. There are art activities, writing exercises, science experiments, math projects, and class book discussions. Classic titles such as Stoutenberg's American Tall Tales (1966) and B. A. Botkin's A Treasury of American Folklore (1944) are listed as references. This is a well researched and practical tool. 2002, Upstart Books, $16.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 1-57950-069-2
The True Story Of Trapper Jack's Left Big Toe
Ian Wallace
This oversized hardback picture book goes perfectly with its tall tale of how Trapper Jack's left big toe came to live in a tobacco box at the Sourdough Saloon. Josh has just moved to Dawson, Alaska, and when his new best friend, Gabe, tells him about Trapper Jack's toe, Josh just has to see it for himself. Trapper Jack takes the boys to the saloon to show them the infamous toe, however there is a hungry three-legged dog near them and you can guess what happens. Kids will love this slightly gross, larger-than-life story. Bundle it with other American tall tales of Davey Crockett, John Henry, or Paul Bunyan. Two-page spreads of color pencil illustrations on textured paper add detail and humor to a delightful story from the Yukon. 2002, Millbrook Press, $24.00. Ages 4 to 10. Reviewer: Wendy Pollock-Gilson
Talk about tall tales! You just might believe it if you heard that Trapper Jack had only nine toes. But what if you were told that his "missing" toe was stored in a jar right here in town, in Dawson City, at the Sourdough Saloon? Josh has just moved to the Yukon, and he knows that the area gets very cold--yes, cold enough to freeze your toes off--but to keep the toe? In a jar? His new friend, Gabe, swears that it's a true story. After all, Gabe's mother saw it once. Gabe takes Josh to Trapper Jack's cabin, where they hear the whole story. The toe is in a can (not a jar) at the Sourdough Saloon, and if the boys are sure they won't chicken out, Trapper Jack will show it to them! When the toe is in Trapper Jack's hand and the boys are staring open-mouthed at it, a stray dog and a flock of ravens get involved, and mild chaos follows. It's a totally unbelievable story, told in so wonderfully straight-faced a manner that it becomes totally believable. The trick at the end, which is best unrevealed in a review, just adds to the story's fun. 2002, Roaring Brook Press, $17.95. ages 5 to 9. Reviewer: Judy Silverman
ISBN: 0761314938
ISBN: 0761324054
Uncle Blubbafink's Seriously Ridiculous Stories
Keith Graves
Here are stories as zany as can be imagined, told in the dialect of a Yiddish comedian, with typefaces and outrageous illustrations in the Scieszka and Smith tradition. Titles range from "Abraham Sandwich and George Washing Machine" through "The Legend of Smoky the Volcano" and "The Dragon Whose Head was a Station Wagon" to "The History of Cows." George, who looks like a washing machine, chops down Abraham's ham orchard, but ends up eating a yam sandwich the size of a Volkswagen. A crew of chickens restore a lost volcano to his habitat and vacation on the resulting island. The dragon and the cows have their own wild adventures. Changing colors, sizes and letter shapes may make reading a bit slow. But there's no rush. Take time to appreciate the acrylic paintings that range from small to double-page size, depicting the sculptural characters with wry humor. And don't miss the hilarious disclaimer page, jacket notes and endpapers. 2001, Scholastic Press, $16.95, Ages 4 to 8. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz.
ISBN: 0-439-24083-2
Who's that Knocking on Christmas Eve
Jan Brett
Set in the far northern province of Finnmark in Norway, Jan Brett retells a tale and fills the illustrations with lots of details from this land of ice and snow. Each year the trolls have wreaked havoc on the home of a young girl and her father as they prepared to enjoy their Christmas feast. This year, the father determines that it will be different, and he sets off on his skis to watch from the mountain top. While he is gone Kyri fixes a delicious meal and the smells attract a boy from Finnmark and his bear. They gently knock on the door and are welcomed into Kyri's home. The trolls too have been attracted by the delicious smells and together Kyri and the boy try battling the trolls. However, it is the bear who has been snoozing under the tile stove who saves the day. From then on, the trolls know that this is not a house they want to come near on Christmas Eve. Each spread has a full size picture (note the trolls in the sky along with the Northern Lights) and two side insets forming a triptych. They tell different parts of the story simultaneously and offer lots of delightful detail for kids and adults. Another book that fans of Jan Brett will want to add to their collections. 2002, Putnam, $16.99. Ages 4 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0399238735
Yo, Vikings!
Judith Byron Schachner
Young Emma is besotted with Vikings, draws and writes about them in her journal, visits the library, and studies Eric the Red for her class project. Accompanied in her imaginative play by her four-year-old brother Ollie, she even locates a Viking ship for sale and offers to purchase it from the owner. When it comes down the street, pulled by "manly men" (is this a reference to "Men in Tights?") Emma's seeming tall tales come true and the class is surprised and stunned. Schachner based her story on something that actually happened to her daughter, but the afterword doesn't reveal much about the truth. Instead, it features Viking information. The surfeit of story can't decide whether to be informative or narrative, literal or imaginative, clever, or condescending. Characters abound and the Viking-esque old librarian, Mr. Sigurd, who introduces bits like Fafnir's story, is seen in the presence of two of the author's previous books, and carries a book of Thoreau into the ship to read in case there's a lull in the action. Schachner's paintings include overpainted newspaper articles, an abundance of swirling Norse characters and foxes that Emma loves. All in all, this over-the-top book extols the power of dreams to come true, but it's a bit much to take in. The book send readers to five books and Ingri (misspelled in the book) and Edgar Parin D'Aulaire's Norse Gods and Giants would be a better source for story and a more coherent read than this book, which tries too hard. 2002, Dutton, $16.99. Ages 5 to 9. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0-525-46889-7
Best Books:
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, June 10, 2002 ; Cahners; United States
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Updated 5/7/03
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