Picture Book Review: The Three Ninja Pigs

The Three Ninja Pigs
Written by:  Rosen Schwartz
Illustrated by:  Dan Santa
Published by: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 2012

* I am a big fan of fractured fairy tales and we have read many as a family.  I think this one is one of my favorites!  This story told in rhyme, is a take on The Three Little Pigs with a martial arts theme.  My family could relate to this book since both my husband and kids are all taking tae kwon do.  In this book the reader is introduced to aikido, jujitsu, and karate, since each pig chooses a different discipline to study at the Ninja school, after being bullied by the wolf.  The pigs (and reader) learns that takes time and practice to master.  I liked how the third pig demonstrated to the pig what she could do with some bricks, rather than actually hurt the pig.  That alone was enough to scare him off.  The pig related puns were humorous and the illustrations were colorful and engaging.  This was an enjoyable read that we all enjoyed!

This book was borrowed from the library.

Family Rating: 2 thumbs up!

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Picture Book Review: Mossy

Mossy
Written and illustrated by:  Jan Brett
Published by: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 2012

* My husband was at the library with the kids when the children's librarian asked the kids if they were interested in reading this book.  It was brand new to the library and she was getting ready to put it out on display.  Of course they said yes.  Our family is a huge fan of Jan Brett.  We have read most of her books and have yet to be disappointed. 

In short, this story is about Mossy an Eastern Box Turtle who is living in Lilypad Pond.  She is special because a garden is growing on her shell.  She has made a new friend Scoot when biologist,  Dr. Carolina, catches her and puts her on exhibit at her museum.  While Mossy brings many visitors to the museum, Dr. Carolina's niece, Tory notices that Mossy looks sad.  Dr. Carolina invites Flora and Fauna to come paint Mossy's picture and then she and Tory return Mossy to the pond. 

As usual, the pictures in this book are beautiful and so detailed.  I found this book interesting and didn't realize until reading it that plants can grow on turtle shells.  Winter has just begun and as the cold weather and snow have just started arriving it's nice to read a book that makes me think about and anticipate spring! 

This book was borrowed from the library.

Family Rating: 2 thumbs up.