A Patch on the Peak of Ararat

PreS-Gr 2—Told in a similar format as "The House That Jack Built," the text builds and repeats as the biblical tale of Noah and the ark progresses. This particular title focuses on the events that occur after the construction of the ark has been completed. Readers quickly learn about God's plan for Noah. The illustrations of the characters are large and colorful, but they are not very animated. Their expressions do not change throughout the story. Noah always seems to have a constant placid smile on his face. His happy sons are armed with hammers and ready to work even though the job is finished. Readers are told how the strong sons work alongside their sweethearts, who are watching the skies. Unfortunately, we never get to see these women. While it is impossible to show all of the beasts included on the ark, only four different animals are depicted throughout the book. A few of the uncommon animals mentioned—the bighorn, the buffalo, and the hyena—are not represented in the illustrations, which would be beneficial to young listeners. The tale includes a few vocabulary words that may need to be explained to younger children. For example, Noah is referred to as a "virtuous man." The text is displayed in two colors and sizes to emphasize pertinent characters and events.