Brown-Wood, JaNay. Mahogany: A Little Red Riding Hood Tale. John Joven, Illus. Charlesbridge, 03/2024. [32]pp. Picture Book. Trade $17.99. 978-1-62354-367-9. GRADES Kindergarten–3. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
In this modern retelling of Red Riding Hood, Mahogany loves to sew and create, and Momma sends her to G-Ma’s to deliver honey cornbread. On the way, Mahogany meets the wolf, who she evades using her handmade cape. Both the full-color digital illustrations and the text indicate that Mahogany is proud of her dark brown skin, something she uses to hide in the woods from the wolf. Modern elements include her cellphone and headphones, which she uses to listen to music. This fun version of the well-known folktale shows a strong Black girl at her bravest and most creative.
Penny Peck—SJSU iSchool