Murray, Alison. Hare and Tortoise. Alison Murray, Illus. Picture Book. Candlewick, 05/2016. [32]pp. $16.99. 978-0-7636-8721-2. OUTSTANDING. GRADES PRE-K.
Murray’s simple text and bright digital illustrations update the classic fable, The Tortoise and the Hare. Before this friendly competition begins, we meet Hare, who can’t stop bouncing, can “run through the tickliest grass…and has never been known to resist a carrot.” But where is Tortoise? Slowly, slowly, she enters the race, agreeing to do her best. Clever page breaks emphasize the growing distance between the two characters, who are rendered with bright eyes showing plenty of emotion. There are no sore losers here, and a satisfying conclusion cements the friendship between the unlikely pair. The spare and lightly humorous text complements the drawings of friendly and smiling animals, making this an excellent choice for storytime or one-on-one reading.
Lauren Snell, Mill Valley PL