Little Pink Riding Hood
Description
Reading age 2 - 10 years
Reviewed By Lesley Jones for Readers’ Favorite
In Little Pink Riding Hood by Maria Vergara, one day in Wololand, Wola, Weva, Caco and Tato decide they are going to perform one of their favorite stories but need the help of Cowee the robot to design the costumes. Cowee helps them search the Wobox of treasures for craft supplies. Soon the friends have made Little Pink Riding Hood, Grandpa, Wolf, and Unicorn costumes. As Little Pink Riding Hood travels to her grandfather's house with a delicious basket of cupcakes, the Wolf is waiting patiently for her to arrive. However, the wolf has a big surprise in store when he tries to take the cupcakes and has to learn a valuable lesson about greed and sharing.
I loved this quirky twist on a classic children's story. The illustrations are so colorful and detailed they give ample opportunity to parents for further discussion of the characters and story. The use of discarded items to make the costumes was a clever idea as this not only promotes the importance of recycling but also encourages children to use their imagination and creativity. The vocabulary is simple for a child to understand but also flows beautifully. The storyline is exciting but not frightening at all. I thought there were very some comical moments at times, especially when Little Pink Riding Hood confronts the Wolf. There are many subtle messages throughout the tale such as sharing, health and well-being, and compassion. The book also encourages children to believe in themselves and that anything is possible. Little Pink Riding Hood by Maria Vergara would not only make an excellent book for schools, as there are extensive teaching resources in the back, but also for an older child to read to their younger sibling.