Jack and the Beanstalk

PreS-Gr 2—This retelling of the familiar tale doesn't stray too far from the original. Mother tells Jack to sell the cow; Jack comes home with magic beans. When the beans are thrown out the window and grow into a beanstalk, the boy climbs the vine to reach the giant. Jack takes the giant's gold, scampers down the beanstalk, and subsequently chops off the skyward-reaching plant at the root. It is the embellishments that make this version unique. In this book, a tiny mouse gives Jack advice at each encounter. Memorable, humorous lines, such as the harp calling out, "Wakey, wakey! This boy Jack is trying to take me," as well as the traditional "Fee, fi, fo, fum," will be enjoyable parts for audience repetition and participation. Brightly colored digital artwork depicts a modern rendition of Jack and his mother. Readers will marvel at the giant's humongous curly beard, which fills the page.