By Aesop, BYR

ISBN 0805063153

Hague brings his signature nostalgic, intricately detailed style to 13 of Aesop's moral tales. Ages 4-8. (Sept.) Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

Grade 1-5-- Fifty-eight of the fables attributed to Aesop are given a fresh and totally inviting look here. In retelling the tales, Gatti uses spare but evocative language and includes the requisite moral for each. Many of Aesop's best-loved selections are included, but quite a few equally clever, if lesser known, fables find their way into this collection.

Great attention has been paid to the arrangement of type, and both text and illustrations are beautifully reproduced on a heavy white paper stock. Employing a style reminiscent of illuminated manuscripts and Persian miniatures, Salter excels in the decorative aspect of her work. Detailed borders surround the stylized animal characters and enrich each story.

Executed in gouache, the paintings are most successful when occupying a full page. The smaller paintings are attractive but lack the detail found in the larger ones. The colors are a pleasing mix of earthy brown, red, and green.

While many versions exist, this book's artwork sets it apart. --Denise Anton Wright, Illinois State University, Normal Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

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