Saturday, February 25, 2023

Little Red and the Big Bad Editor by Rebecca Kraft Rector and Shanda McCloskey - ESSENTIAL

Little Red and the Big Bad Editor
by Rebecca Kraft Rector and Shanda McCloskey
PICTURE BOOK Aladdin. 2022. $19. 9781534469297

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Little Red receives a cape as a gift from Granny. She quickly writes a thank you note, grabs a basket of goodies, and sets off to deliver them to Granny. But, oh no, Mr. Wolf is waiting along her path to eat her up. Fortunately, every time he threatens to do so, he is distracted by an error in her thank you note that must be corrected. Little Red gets away with her letter and goodies all the way to Granny's, but Mr. Wolf follows her there. 

This picture book is so clever in so many ways. Little Red is a modern heroine in her pink striped leggings and spiked skateboarding helmet. The rhythm of the text creates tension as Mr. Wolf makes his appearances. The similes used are creative and have a Southern USA flair that reflects the background of the author. Also, the book teaches letter-writing skills through the explanations delivered by Mr. Wolf, the editor. The illustrations are packed with little details that add energy and complexity. Little Red has tan skin, tightly corkscrewed red hair, and freckles. Granny is darker brown skinned. So the overall impression is that Little Red would be a biracial character. 

J. Smith, Teacher Librarian

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