Brun-Cosme, Nadine. Big Wolf and Little Wolf. Illustrated by Olivier Tallec. Translated by Claudia Bedrick. Enchanted Lion Books. 2009. 32 pages. Tr. $16.95. ISBN 978-1-59270-084-4.
Annotation: Big Wolf, a solitary animal, slowly lets a stranger, Little Wolf, join him in his daily activities. All is well until Little Wolf unexpectedly leaves and there is a big hole in Big Wolf’s heart as he misses his new companion. Happily Little Wolf returns and both bask in the newly formed friendship.
Summary: Originally published in French, this children’s tale tells of Big Wolf who is large and black and lives alone under his tree in the forest. One day small, blue and adventurous Little Wolf decides to visit Big Wolf’s domain. Little by little, Big Wolf accepts Little Wolf as a friend and includes him in his daily activities. Then one day, Little Wolf disappears and Big Wolf is decidedly sad. The reunion is sweet as Little Wolf returns to stay permanently with his new-found friend.
Evaluation: The sensitive text and colorful illustrations emphasize the touching relationship between wary Big Wolf and adventurous Little Wolf. The character’s emotions are accurately portrayed as Big Wolf learns to open his heart to another. Recommended for ages 3 to 8.
Genre / Subject: Juvenile Fiction, Animals, Wolves, Friendship
Awards: 2010 Mildred L. Batchelder Award Honor Book, 2010 ALA Notable Books for Children