Gr 5-8–Three restless and inquisitive children are trapped in a train compartment with an aunt who lacks imagination and an impatient, unpleasant stranger. It becomes evident that the aunt does not have the answers to the children’s questions, or at least none that will satisfy them, when she tells them a story that fails to capture their attention. The man, reaching the end of his tolerance, tells them a story of a “horribly” good girl who, to the delight of the children, is eaten by a hungry wolf after hearing the rattling of the three good-behavior medals she so proudly exhibits. The vibrant illustrations bring this fantastic, if sarcastic, English classic to life with all its force and beauty. The translators have managed to capture the author’s masterful ironic cynicism in a magisterial way. To all of the above, add the remarkably attractive graphic presentation, and the result is a work of art that will be a great addition to any library.–Narda McCarthy, Para los Niños’ Consultant, Weston, FL
