From Publishers Weekly
"Root's yarn-spinning talents shine in a tale laced with mountain vernacular," said PW of this original folktale, published in an oversize format, about a woman who outwits a Mephistophelian visitor. Parkins's art adds a dash of "dastardly suspense." Ages 5-up.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Grade 1-4?When sweet-faced old Aunt Nancy bends over the spring hole to see why there is no water and her good luck coin falls into it, it's a clear sign that Old Man Trouble is in the neighborhood. Then he appears in a long black hat and shiny black shoes, swinging a silver-headed walking stick. The woman cheerfully returns one salvo after another as Old Man Trouble tries to do his dirty work. Finally, she tricks the trickster into repairing her spring and sends him on his way. In the tradition of Appalachian Jack tales, this original story features a sharp-witted heroine. Set timelessly at Aunt Nancy's lonely log cabin, the full-color oil illustrations reveal a folksy Nancy and a surreal (and very toothy) Old Man. Effective use of light and angle varies the perspectives and adds energy to the narrative, and dark tones give way to lighter ones as Nancy triumphs. Silhouettelike black spot art creates visual bridges within the tale. Rhythmic language and interesting use of sound spice up the text. All told, here's a pleasing story for reading aloud, telling, or tickling the fancies of independent readers.?Carolyn Noah, Central Mass. Regional Library System, Worcester, MA
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.