FICTION

The Three Billy Goats Buenos

Putnam. Mar. 2020. 32p. Tr $16.99. ISBN 9780399547393.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 1–A retelling of the Norwegian fairy tale, “Three Billy Goats Gruff.” Three goats cross a bridge where a hungry “gigante” lives. As the goats, one by one, so ingeniously try to deceive the monster, the last and biggest goat has a realization that changes the outcome for all the characters. Former Spanish teacher and children book author Middleton presents the tale in rhyme with Spanish words in bold scattered throughout the two-line sentences that build the narrative. The generously sized font uses preschool-friendly vocabulary. The pencil, collage, and digitally made pastel-colored illustrations are set on a white background depicting geometrical figures and curved lines that could be used in an interactive storytime, where children find different shapes. This picture book exposes children to themes such as empathy, kindness, teamwork, and friendship, providing an ideal opportunity for a storytime focused on mindfulness. The front matter contains a glossary with all the Spanish words used in the story.
VERDICT A thoughtful picture book that will motivate youngsters to look beyond appearances.

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