ANDIAMO, WEASEL!

Readers learn a lesson about friendship, self-esteem, and the Italian language in Grant’s noteworthy debut. Set in Tuscany, the story revolves around a crow and a weasel. “This is such a grande job for a piccolo crow,” the weasel says when he sees Crow preparing to plant corn. “But if I help—presto!—the job will be done, and when harvest comes we can split the crop.” Soon, the two sow seeds together. But when it comes time to tend the field, Weasel flakes out. First, he complains of a broken leg. When he adds a sore back to the list of ailments, Crow gets wise. Goodell’s (Zigazak!: A Magical Hannukah Night, 2001, etc.) lush, naturalistic portraiture pictures Crow rushing to save the harvest from the oncoming storm. He collects the crop overnight, but when he wakes up the next morning, only husks are left. Tones of terra cotta brown and buttery yellow warm the double-paged spread as Crow confronts Weasel. “I divided our crop,” explains Weasel, kicking back against a mountain of freshly shucked corn. “And you get the husks!” Infuriated, Crow enlists the services of a snarling wolf. But when they get to Weasel’s den, Crow goes ballistic, driving Weasel away without the wolf’s help, proving once and for all that size doesn’t count when it comes to standing up for yourself. Young readers—especially those small in stature—will appreciate Grant’s positive message about self-reliance and standing up for your rights. Italian words, easily understood in context, appear throughout; a glossary is also included. (Picture book. 5-8)