School Library Journal
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Gr 1-2-Blackaby follows the plot of Andersen's original tale. The text is written in simple language while presenting some complex ideas and sophisticated sentence structures. Expressive watercolor cartoon characters are the highlight of each spread. In Ant, White retells Aesop's fable in equally simple language. The story can lead to classroom discussion about work and play. Muted cartoon pictures using lots of browns and greens illustrate the story. In Lion, the reteller closely follows the familiar fable about cooperation between the mighty lion and the tiny mouse. The story concludes with the mouse saying, "You didn't think I could help you- but an act of kindness is never wasted," which provides a good opener for further discussion. Clear illustrations in a cartoon style with soft golds, browns, and greens decorate every page. Good choices for children who want to read these familiar stories on their own.-Karen Land, Greenport Public School, NY (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.