From Publishers Weekly
In this striking volume, Demi (The Empty Pot; The Firebird) introduces each of the Chinese zodiac's 12 animal symbols by retelling the fables associated with them. Her writing is succinct and witty, and the morals less familiar than Aesop's ("The more you know, the more you know there is to know"). Fittingly, the circle is the central design element here: the text of each brief entry is set within a ring filled with thematically linked images; circular illustrations on facing pages playfully-and very cleverly-interpret the narrative. Sophisticated yet accessible to youngsters, Demi's art displays a pleasing symmetry and an intriguingly varied scale, effectively balancing minute details and larger, more encompassing symbols. Adding to the book's visual allure is the copyright page's list of traditional ingredients the artist used in making her paints for this project, among them the sap of the rattan plant and pulverized oyster shells. Kids will also be interested to learn that Demi painted with a single mouse whisker for "extremely delicate work." Ages 4-7.
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Kindergarten-Grade 3?Demi presents the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. Within a decorated circle on the left side of each double-page spread is a brief fable, followed by an appropriate maxim. The right side has a matching circle devoted entirely to illustration; like its mate, it is set on a white background. A few of the pleasant, solidly retold fables are reminiscent of such staples as "The Rat's Daughter" and "See for Yourself." They appear not to be specifically drawn from Chinese literature. Demi's trademark illustrations, done with "traditional paints" and "a brush of one mouse whisker...for extremely delicate work," feature the animals and many celestial motifs, from constellations on the endpapers to stars and the phases of the moon. A useful book to have around, especially for the Chinese New Year, but not an essential purchase for most libraries.?Diane S. Marton, Arlington County Library, VA
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
