THE BROTHERS ZZLI

Cousseau puts a unique spin on the oft-told encounter between a girl and three bears.

In this version, the girl is the homeowner, and the bears, known as the brothers Zzli, are the guests. Unlike in the fairy tale, there are no intruders—“driven out of their home,” the bears arrive at the girl’s invitation and are greeted warmly. They bring joy to her life, and together the newfound family overcomes communication barriers and other challenges. Despite the bears’ kind hearts, intolerant neighbors treat them as dangerous interlopers and respond with escalating acts of harassment and violence. Boutin’s detailed illustrations are riveting, with bold inky lines and palettes reminiscent of woodcut prints used in 20th-century Russian and Polish folk art. Lal’s translation is clear and efficient, but some of the musicality and humor of the original French text is lost in the process. As an allegory for the treatment of refugees, the story lacks the subtlety and coherence of other titles. Portraying the refugees, but not their host, as animals may reinforce their otherness, and because the depiction of the animals that make up the broader community is superficial, younger readers may not understand their motivations. Yet, with additional context and substantial adult guidance, this tale might help older readers make sense of the topic. The girl has skin the white of the page.

A quirky, poignant take on the refugee crisis, though one best introduced by sensitive caregivers or educators.