The Rooster and the Fox (Single Titles (Hardcover))

Rating:
Summary: Eye candy
Review: Helen Ward's lavishly illustrated retelling of Chaucer's "Nun's Priest's Tale" follows the legendary rooster Chanticleer as he matches wits with a clever, but ultimately foolish fox. Ward makes the story come alive for young people with simpler wording and bits of rhyme here and there.

As classic as the story itself is, it is the pen and watercolor illustrations that make this book a must read. This has to be one of the most beautiful children's books I have ever seen, with artwork that is Caldecott Medal-worthy. The rich detail and lush colorations make the animals of the tale simply pop out of the page. Using a "flyover" view also gives the drawings a cinematic feel that enlivens the action.

And just when you think you've finished the story, Ward provides backstory helps to not only understand the history of the tale, but also the choices she made for populating the barnyard. With this guide the reader will see that the author has featured rare "heirloom" breeds of animals in her illustration; the guide gives background on each breed and points each out on the story's pages. Truly a wonderful addition that enhances the enjoyment of the book for adults.

Very highly recommended!