Once There Was a Story: Tales from Around the World, Perfect for Sharing

Writing in a warm, welcoming voice peppered with humor, Yolen retells more than 30 myths, fairy tales, and fables. "Long, long ago, in far-off Africa, a great lion dozed in the sun," begins "The Lion and the Mouse." "Yes, he was proud, but all lions are proud.... He was strong, but all lions are strong. And he snored." Fables such as this sit alongside stories from the Brothers Grimm and tales from across the globe, such as "How Anansi Spider Got All His Stories" and "Plip, Plop," a Tibetan tale about not always believing what one hears. Yolen includes two original stories, and concludes each entry with a rhyming moral. Dyer's dainty gouache-and-pencil spot illustrations bring additional liveliness to each tale in a collection that's ideal for bedtime or story time. Ages 4-8. Agent: Elizabeth Harding, Curtis Brown. (Nov.)

Beginning with a heartfelt introduction about the magic of reading aloud, this handsome collection includes retellings of well- and lesser-known fairy tales and fables and two brand new stories written by Yolen. Representing 15 countries around the globe, the 30 offerings are divided into sections: "Homey Tales," such as "The Gingerbread Man" and "The Old Woman and Her Pig"; "Very Best Beastly Tales" includes "The Lion and the Mouse" and "Plip, Plop"; and "Tales of Magic Makers," which contains "The Golden Goose" and "Brave Marietta." Specifically designed for a younger audience, the font is large and easily readable, there is plenty of white space, and the language is accessible. The tales are well chosen for their sly humor, memorable characters, and wise lessons. The realistically drawn illustrations are done in gouache and colored pencils and beautifully introduce every entry. The use of additional spot art throughout makes for a visual treat. Readers and listeners will enjoy discovering new details during repeat visits. VERDICT The combination of clever retellings and vibrant artwork makes these old tales fresh and inviting. A recommended purchase for libraries looking to brighten up their folktale collections.—Sara-Jo Lupo Sites, George F. Johnson Memorial Library, Endicott, NY