Mole's Hill: A Woodland Tale

Ages 3-7. When Fox finds a mole hill inconveniently placed along his path to the pond, he informs Mole that she must make way. Raccoon advises her, "Better listen to Fox--he's got big teeth." Unwilling to move, Mole plants seeds on her hill. Months later, her beautiful flowers win over the other animals, convincing them to preserve her hill. When Fox asks her to dig a tunnel so that other animals can go through the hill, she agrees. Broad, double-page spreads feature collages of bright, bold shapes against solid backgrounds. Most of the colorful, collage papers are stippled. Notes at the end of the book tell that the story derives from a fragment of a Seneca tale and is set in Wisconsin, with indigenous flora and fauna. As with Ehlert's other books, the artwork reflects careful research and a strong eye for shape and color. Although the book is visually dynamic, the storytelling lacks tension. Still, Ehlert's fans, as well as teachers seeking simple picture books based on Native American tales, will want to consider this one.

Copyright 1994 Booklist, LLC Used with permission.