Review: Red by Jed Alexander

Red by Jed Alexander

Red by Jed Alexander (9781944903114)

A wordless riff on the traditional Little Red Riding Hood tale, this picture book offers an initial title page that will show immediately that it’s a different sort of story. With a huge wolf holding wrapping paper in his mouth and Grandma waiting for him arrive, the tale then moves to a very little Red Riding Hood being stopped by the large wolf on her way in the woods. Other animals appear with presents, ribbons and even a cake. The wolf delays Red until the other animals and Grandma are ready and they surprise her with a birthday party! The day ends with Red riding off on the wolf merrily.

The illustrations use pops of red and pink to show the elements of the party and Red’s cloak. Otherwise they are filled with black and white ink drawings featuring a grinning rather devious wolf, rabbits and badgers, and one determined little girl.

A winning new take on a traditional story. Appropriate for ages 2-5.

Reviewed from copy provided by Cameron Kids.

This Week’s Tweets

Here are some cool links that I shared on Twitter this week:

CHILDREN’S BOOKS

Dr. Seuss’ forgotten anti-war book made him an enemy of the right

Facts About the Natural World Astound and Delight in These Picture Books

Great Books about Strong Girls and Women -A Short List » Public Libraries Online

The Honesty of Sadness in Literature for Young People – http://www2.ncte.org/blog/2018/01/honesty-sadness-literature-young-people/

Hong Kong’s public libraries ‘U-turn’ on anti-LGBT+ kids’ books ban after uproar · PinkNews

Humor is one of the things that gets kids . Funny Books: Hilarious Reads for ages 8-13

Michael Rosen: the trick to making children laugh, daring to be daft

The Most Anticipated Children’s and YA Books of Fall 2018:

On the Imperialist ‘Charity’ of Rebuilding Caribbean Children’s Libraries with Eurocentric Books – https://t.co/tB387bDGJd

“Picture books are the magical result of artistic collaboration. As a picture book writer, I’m always amazed to see my words transformed and elevated by the illustrations, blended together for the perfect storytelling experience.” –

TEEN LIT

Native YA: Four Native American Authors on Their Messages for Teens + a recommended reading list – https://t.co/yPqjPhx6MH

YA Graphic Novels Coming Out August–December 2018