The Little Matador
PreSchool-Grade 1—Coming from a long line of distinguished bullfighters, the Little Matador is expected to continue his family's proud tradition. But bullfighting bores him and drawing animals makes him happy, to his father's horror. When he debuts in the ring and stops the charging animal by drawing a picture of it, the boy proves to the townsfolk and his parents that his talent is different but also special. The old-time setting is well conveyed through illustrations using muted colors for the most part, with the hero in a bright red matador's outfit. The succinct text is enriched by numerous visual touches that help tell the story: family portraits on the walls—all of matadors; the authentic-looking arena off the town square; the Little Matador's room with books and pictures that suggest his interests in the larger world outside his town. This handsome endeavor will appeal particularly to youngsters who are familiar with bullfighting traditions. However, its emphasis on being different and finding your own talents is a good message for all children. Pair this title with Munro Leaf's classicFerdinandfor an interesting storytime on individuality.—Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LACopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.