Favorite Folk Tales, Vol. II

PreS-Gr 3—Two books by father-daughter team Ed and Rebecca Emberly have been rereleased: Chicken Little and The Red Hen. The paper cutout illustrations are given exceptional, distinct voices by a talented group of actors. The jazzy soundtracks perfectly fit the action. Saxophone, clarinet, trumpet, and harmonica provide background for the silly fowl who run from the falling sky. Strings combine to give music to the story of the unhelpful animals who only want to help Red Hen eat the cake but not make it first. The third folktale is Jon J. Muth's retelling of Stone Soup, set in China. Muth assigns the soup makers the roles of traveling monks, and flute and cello music enhances the mood. The austere renderings of landscape and the monks are a contrast to the yellow-clad child, who is the first to contribute ingredients to the dish. The story ends with a celebration of color and joyful music as the villagers learn how sharing makes everyone richer. Bonus material includes "The Red Hen's Simply Splendid Cake Recipe;" an interview with Ed and Rebecca Emberly describing their process; and an interview with Muth, who discusses his influences.