Three Hens and a Peacock

K-Gr 3—On a beautiful summer day, a crate falls off a truck, and out pops a colorful peacock that wanders down the road and changes life on the Tuckers' farm. His fancy feathers draw the attention of passers-by, who now stop to buy eggs, corn, and tomatoes. Jealousy and drama erupt in the henhouse, so the hound strikes a deal between the feuding birds to switch jobs. While the peacock unsuccessfully attempts to lay eggs, the hens strut their stuff roadside, and go unnoticed. Once they return to what they do best, all seems quiet, until another crate falls off a truck by the Tuckers' farm and a new surprise arrives, which will create lots of guessing and discussion among children. Cole's engaging illustrations in watercolor, ink, and colored pencils are bold and humorous and explode with color. The three hens and peacock express their confusion, anger, and shock with popping eyes, pointy beaks out of joint, and plenty of wing flapping. Endpages are decorated with a delicate peacock feather motif. The huffy hens dressed in jewelry and hair ribbons as they try to attract attention are sure to evoke giggles at storytime or in a one-on-one setting. But the ending will amp up the interest and excitement as the crate with a little clue breaks open. A delightful choice for schools and public libraries.—Anne Beier, Clifton Public Library, NJ