Piggins

Jane Yolen is a highly acclaimed author who has written hundreds of books for children and adults and has won numerous awards. She and her husband divide their time between Massachussetts and Scotland. Visit her at janeyolen.com and on Twitter at @JaneYolen.  

Grade 1-3 A sophisticated English mystery parody for the primary set. The Reynards throw a dinner party to show off Mrs. Reynard's new diamond lavaliere and to explain why they must sell it. As Mr. Reynard is relating the story of the necklace's curse, the lights go off; when they are restored, the necklace is gone. All the dinner guests are stumped, but Piggins, the very proper butler, explains to all how it was done and who did the evil deed. Yolen utlizes word play in the namesProfessor T. Ortoise is an elderly turtle. Her plot is clever, but with enough obvious clues for first or second graders to solve the mystery on their own. Some of Yolen's understated humor may not be appreciated by children, but an adult reader will enjoy sharing this book with children. The color pencil and watercolor illustrations complement the text in every way. Each textual detail is meticulously expressed in the pictures. The animal characters have human expression while still remaining true to their animal naturesthe rats, of course, are the thieves. The Edwardian details in decor and costuming are fun to examine and yet do not interfere with the action or visual flow of the illustrations. One of a kindand sure to provide a great deal of fun for many readers and listeners. Karen K. Radtke, Milwaukee Public Library
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.