Henrietta and the Golden Eggs by Hanna Johansen

Johansen, Hanna. Henrietta and the Golden Eggs. Illustrated by Kathi Bhend-Zaugg. Translated by John S. Barrett. David R. Godine Publisher, 2002. 64 pages. Tr. $16.95. ISBN 978-1-56792-210-3.

Annotation: In a hen house with 3,333 other chickens, Henrietta, an ambitious pullet, decides to pursue her dreams of laying golden eggs. As she does so, she betters life on the farm for all chickens.

Summary: Originally published in German, this tale of farm life in the hen house centers upon Henrietta, a little chicken with big dreams. Clever Henrietta escapes the confining hen house three times to learn to sing, swim, and fly. In the process she creates utter chaos on the farm but ultimately improves the living conditions for her 3,333 fellow chickens. As she escapes for a fourth time, there is the question of whether or not this brave and resourceful chicken can, indeed, lay golden eggs.

Evaluation: The lively pen-and-ink illustrations printed in black and white reveal the silly antics on the farm. The expressive artwork is superbly matched to the straightforward text. The details add a touch of humor to the hearty story of being brave enough to pursue one’s dreams despite obstacles. Recommended for ages 4 to 9.

Genre / Subject: Juvenile Fiction, Fable, Animals, Chickens, Farms, Aspirations

Awards: 2003 Mildred L. Batchelder Award Honor Book, 2003 ALA Notable Books for Children

Big Wolf & Little Wolf by Nadine Brun-Cosme

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