Mrs. Chicken and the Hungry Crocodile
PreSchool-Grade 3-Narcissistic Mrs. Chicken, not satisfied with the small reflection she can see in a puddle, makes her way to the river where a hungry predator lies in wait. Seeing Crocodile instead of herself in the water, she is amazed by what she thinks is her new appearance and turns this way and that while the wily reptile mirrors her movements. When Mrs. Chicken steps into the river for a closer look, Crocodile quickly catches her and takes her home to eat. But the fowl turns out to be clever enough to concoct an egg-switching scheme that convinces Crocodile that they are sisters, and Mrs. Chicken eventually wins freedom for herself and her offspring. Told in straightforward language, this trickster tale is smart and funny. The story, which comes from the Dan people of Liberia, previously appeared in the retellers' Why Leopard Has Spots (Fulcrum, 1998), and this newly illustrated version is perfect for a younger audience. The stylized, gouache artwork is strong and streamlined, and not bogged down with detail. Curving lines depict the river, white backgrounds represent the outdoors, and glossy black delineates Crocodile's lair, which is decorated with geometric borders. The layout is effective, with parts of the reptile's body often extending off the page to insinuate size. The flat paintings recall folk art, and Crocodile's checkerboard skin reflects the patterns found in her home. This delectable offering will be a hit in storytime.Susan Oliver, Tampa-Hillsborough Public Library System, FLCopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.