LITTLE RED

The Roberts’ third style-conscious folktale remake transforms Little Red into a boy, places him in late 18th-century America and sends him through the woods to Grandma’s with a jug of ginger ale. Oblivious to shadows, vicious thorns and leering faces on the trees, Little Red stops to pick apples—allowing the particularly sly-looking wolf to bound ahead, gulp down Granny, billowing petticoats and all, then lie in wait among imported delftware, portraits of George and Martha (Washington) and like period detail. But once he arrives, quick-witted Little Red persuades the predator to down the ginger ale first, resulting in a monumental belch that sends Grandma flying to safety. The wolf develops a taste for the drink, “in spite of its embarrassing aftereffects,” and cuts a deal with his intended victim to keep the supply coming. No, this isn’t likely to replace traditional versions—but it should nonetheless draw a chuckle or two. (Picture book/folktale. 6-8)