The Song of Francis and the Animals
PreSchool-Grade 2–Mora's narrative about the Saint and his tender relationships with wild creatures is more poetry than story. The lyrical text describes how Francis speaks with birds, tames a wolf that threatens the people of Gubbio, and re-creates the manger scene with the help of villagers, lambs, an ox, and a donkey. Throughout, the animals sing and call back to him. Some Italian phrases are included, with a translation at the front of the book. The variety of species that populate Frampton's vibrant, detailed two-page woodcuts will delight youngsters. The animals are full of character and personality and emphasize Francis's belief in their gentleness. The fierce wolf turns into a fawning supplicant and a falcon shelters the sleeping man with spread wings. While this book may be more relevant to parochial than secular schools, its message of treating all living things with kindness is universal. Francis's compassion for a worm shows children an example of having respect for even the lowliest of creatures.–Jane Barrer, formerly at Washington Square Village Creative Steps, New York CityCopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.