Redlocks and the Three Bears

PreS-Gr 2–Classic fairy tales collide in this self-aware spin on “Little Red Riding Hood” and “Goldilocks and the Three Bears.” Seeking an escape from the Big Bad Wolf, Red Riding Hood exits her own book and knocks on the door of The Three Bears, who reluctantly give her refuge. Porridge is eaten, chairs are broken, and beds are slept in—when suddenly the Wolf arrives and the characters scurry over to the next book, invading The Three Little Pigs’ home. It turns out the Big Bad Wolf isn’t so bad after all, and with an act of kindness from Little Bear, the book ends happily. Softly rounded pencil illustrations catch the eye with luminous blends of colors and delicate lines, while attractive typesetting and decorative borders lend a storybook aesthetic to the pages. The uncomplicated prose makes for an appealing read-aloud, and positive themes of empathy and understanding will resonate with audiences of all ages.