The companion volume, Snow White, set in Japan and illustrated by Misa Saburi, follows the same format. Cinderella is the picture of beauty, with her hair up in ribbons and flowers and her typically Mexican many-layered white dress. Cultural references abound, as when a messenger comes carrying a banner announcing a “FIESTA” in beautiful papel picado. Within its Mexican setting, the characters are olive-skinned and dark-haired. What gives this book its flavor is the artwork. Though simplified for a younger audience, the text still relates the well-known tale: mean-spirited stepmother, spoiled stepsisters, overworked Cinderella, fairy godmother, glass slipper, charming prince, and, of course, happily-ever-after. When Llama’s worries reach their climactic peak, Mama’s sensible but sensitive response soothes both her ruffled baby and young readers alike.ĭewdney’s tale is bound to become a comical classic oft-requested at bedtime.Ī retelling of the classic fairy tale in board-book format and with a Mexican setting. The combination of little Llama’s expressions with the ever-darkening hues expertly capture his growing concerns. The full-color, full-bleed illustrations are an intrinsic part of why this tale works so well. With dead-on comic timing, Dewdney’s snappy verses convey the juxtaposition of little Llama’s escalating anxiety and Mama’s last minute efforts to get something done before heading back up to the room. With unerring accuracy, Dewdney perfectly captures the existential, pint-sized angst little ones experience after they are tucked in for the night. What happens between that moment and his mom’s arrival is a treat for seasoned parents and a eureka moment for young readers. Dewdney’s authorial debut is an uproariously funny tale detailing the true events that occur between lights out and when a wee one actually falls asleep.įeeling bereft after his mother leaves the room, little Llama soon calls down for a drink of water.
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