THE THREE LITTLE PIGS

Ten tales in fine versions for reading or telling, some a bit changed or updated, as if by a skilled teller, or with the violence toned down (the little pig still cooks the wolf but doesn't eat him; Red Riding Hood survives, as she does in the Grimm's version), but essentially traditional in language and event. Seven are British, including ``Lazy Jack,'' ``Henny Penny,'' and ``Mr. Vinegar''; ``The Three Billy Goats Gruff'' and ``The Musicians of Bremen'' round out the collection. Wisely, Voake chooses to understate her illustrations, using an agile but delicate pen line and soft colors and scattering vignettes in the irregular margins or even in the midst of the text, which is printed in large type and looks like the book's most important feature (as it is). Sometimes a scene expands to a double spread, but never to steal the show. An attractive collection that leaves plenty to the visual imagination; an excellent choice for home, classroom, or library. (Folklore/Picture book. 2-8)