Once Upon a Wild Wood by Chris Riddell

Follow along with Little Green Rain Cape as she journeys through the wild wood in this delightful fairy tale mash-up. While on her way to Rapunzel's party, Green meets a slew of enchanting characters like a wolf, a troll and a kind old lady who offers her an apple. Unlike her counterpart Red Riding Hood, Green is much more prepared and aware but that's not enough to prevent her from getting into some sticky situations.

Multiple award-winning illustrator, author and cartoonist Chris Riddell adds fresh charm to classic characters. Lively, upbeat and wonderfully illustrated with humourous details filled with fairy tale references and an inviting die-cut cover makes this picture book a visual treat. With an open ending, readers are encouraged to continue the story and create their own adventures through the wild wood. Recommended for ages 4+.

Amazon
Macmillan Children's Books 2018
Hardcover 32p
12.1" x 9.4"

Red by Jed Alexander

A new spin on the classic fairy tale of Red Riding Hood, Jed Alexander's wordless picture book brings us back into the woods where viewers follow Red as she makes her way to Granny's house. She meets the wolf along the path who slyly distracts and blocks her view of the other forest animals scurrying away. The wolf patronizing Red's precocious and sassy behaviour makes for a humorous encounter. The surprise ending is satisfying and sweet.

The illustrations are two tone, using only red and black colours. The page edges are also inked in red. The wolf is gigantic with a mouth large enough to swallow both Red and Granny whole. Luckily for them it's a benevolent wolf. It is best to already know the traditional tale this book is based upon to fully appreciate the humour in Red. This is Jed Alexander's debut picture book. Recommended for all ages.

Amazon
Cameron Kids 2018
Hardcover 24p
10.25" x 7.25"

Favorite Children's Stories from China and Tibet by Lotta Carswell Hume Illustrated by Lo Koon Chiu

Presented here are 18 popular folk tales from China and Tibet. I have fond memories of reading some of these stories in elementary school. They are very similar to Aesop's fables with anthropomorphic animals and in most cases a moral to learn. The themes of kindness and cleverness is always triumphant. Enter the world of ancient China, where magic and mystical beings abound. There are not many compilations of Chinese fairy tales written in English and Lotta Carswell Hume does an excellent translation of the stories, offering readers an insight into Chinese culture. Each short story is 2-3 pages long and is suitable for reading out loud.

Lo Koon Chiu's illustrations are displayed throughout and done in watercolour in the classic Chinese brush style. His depictions of the people and costumes add authenticity and appeal. Lo Koon Chiu studied at the Art College of Guangzhou and the Canton Technical College of Arts. The new edition available this July with reduced pricing includes 7 stories. Recommended for ages 5+.

Amazon
Tuttle Publishing 2004
Hardcover 112p
9" x 9"

The Adventures of Red Riding Hood Exhibit

Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf are on display at a new exhibit from the Osborne Collection of Early Children’s Books. There are many vintage books and ephemera available for viewing as well as modern retellings of the famous fairy tale.  Below is a glimpse of what you can expect to see at this exhibit.

Located at the Toronto Public Library Lillian H. Smith branch.
Admission is free and runs until June 2, 2018.