Little Red Riding Hood

Little Red Riding Hood

From School Library JournalGr 2-4-This classic Grimm tale has had many interpretations over the years, but Spirin's splendid version is inspired by the lavish Dutch paintings of the 17th century. The jacket, with windmills and Renaissance cathedral spires in the background, sets the scene and centers the heroine in a colorful outfit carrying a bountiful bouquet of flowers and wearing a white brimmed, vibrant red peaked hat tied snuggly under her chin. Grandmother, who is garbed in lace and flounces, and the hunters with their long rifles and Cavalier hats fit well into the setting. The wolf, when he appears, fills the page: he is large and ferocious, and dressed in an elaborate ruffled tunic, braided, wide-cuffed pants, and a broad-brimmed feathered hat. He's the Renaissance man personified, although his slathering tongue betrays his debonair look. Spirin places his characters up front on the page against plentiful white space, giving intensity to the unfolding drama. A simply retold and richly illustrated addition.Barbara Elleman, Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, Amherst, MA