Missy Mila: Twisted Tales, Vol. 2

K-Gr 3—Missy Mila, a quirky eight year old, narrates 13 stories with classic morals and a bit of a twist. For example, the prince in her story has a sheep for a best friend and meets his true love in a pet shop. In "Bigmess the Ogress," there's an ogress who wants to cook a dish called Children Soup and a mouse that climbs into an elephant's brain. Kids will love the whimsical characters and silly plot lines that make up the twists in these tales. Mila is a fun and exuberant character and viewers will identify with the childlike emotions that she displays. Mila often interrupts her own tales with an aside to invite audience participation. If a story seems to be ending badly, Mila simply stops it and debates the options available to the characters. In this way, she teaches kids to consider their own options and make better choices. Each tale has a moral, such as the importance of withholding judgment, standing up to bullying, sharing, etc. The animation style is chunky and simple with very bright colors. A great choice for viewing during free time in the classroom or at home.—Jenny Ventling, Greene County Public Library, OH