Greatest Animal Stories

Originally published in the U.K., this collection of 17 animal stories selected by Morpurgo features a variety of authors and illustrators, including Pippa Goodheart, Geraldine McCaughrean, and Meilo So. Several tales originate from Aesop and Andersen, while others are drawn from Native American, African, Caribbean, and other folkloric traditions. Morpurgo provides commentary before the stories, inviting readers to compare and contrast them, and to consider how the tales might resonate in their own lives ("What would you do if someone like Jackal was trying to tempt you into trouble?" he asks at the outset of Timothy Knapman's version of "The Hungry Hyena"). The broad mix of voices and illustration styles brings a lively variety to the collection, while the stories are united by concluding morals set off from the rest of the text. Ages 7-12. (Sept.)

Gr 1-5--A collection of 17 stories selected by Morpurgo, the best-selling author of over 130 books for children. Each classic tale is retold by a different author and illustrator, making this book a beautiful and diverse compendium of narrative and artistic styles. The stories also vary in length and complexity so that readers of all ages can find something suited for their reading level. Stories from all over the world are represented: Aesop's fables are included, as well as tales from Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. Classics such as "The Ugly Duckling" and "Peter and the Wolf" appear alongside "How the Bear Lost His Tail" and the "King of Cats." Next to each title page is a short paragraph by Morpurgo introducing the story, describing its cultural origins, and presenting the moral conflict. The shorter stories end with a summary of the moral. The book itself is a beauty to behold: the dust jacket is gorgeous, featuring silver letters and intricate design, and the interiors are bright and slick. VERDICT This book is ideal for solo readers as well as family bedtime stories and makes for a memorable gift.--Katherine Hickey, Metropolitan Library System, Oklahoma City