DK Readers: Trojan Horse (Level 4: Proficient Readers)
Grade 2-5-Clement-Davies retells the story of The Iliad from the quarrel over the golden apple to the fall of Troy. DK's trademark layout illustrates perfectly both the benefits and drawbacks of the technique. It allows for explanations that would be awkward to include within the text, but the narrative flow of this exciting adventure story is constantly interrupted. Colorful, dramatic drawings illustrate the tale. The sidebars consist of full-color photos, illustrations, and art reproductions. The writing is good, if not exceptional. The reading level and page design make the book suitable for reluctant readers. The Iliad (Kingfisher, 1997), retold by Ian Strachan, is better written and tells the story in more depth, but is intended for an older audience. The Trojan Horse (McElderry, 1992), retold and illustrated by Warwick Hutton, focuses on the fall of Troy, with the events leading up to the appearance of the horse only briefly described. This version fills a niche.Lisa Smith, Lindenhurst Memorial Library, NYCopyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.