Where Giants Hide

PreS-Gr 2—A girl, convinced that all the world's magic has leaked away, is sad because she can't find any giants, fairies, goblins, unicorns, dragons, or genies. "Where is the fairy who'll grant me a wish?/And what happened to mermaids? Did they turn into fish?" Yet readers see what the child is missing: mermaids just under the water's surface, a broomstick flying behind her, a troll under the bridge, and enchanted creatures right under her nose. When she finally understands the power of believing in her own dreams, she discovers where giants hide and the magic that is all around her. By reading the pictures, young children will enjoy the visual joke and find satisfaction in figuring out the mismatch between the girl's narration and what is actually happening. The whimsical, detailed illustrations, dominated by bright red, yellow, and turquoise, add humor and capture the subtle message of the story.—Rachel Kamin, North Suburban Synagogue Beth El, Highland Park, IL