The King of the Birds - Hardcover

Helen Ward

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1898784639 ISBN 13: 9781898784630

Publisher: Templar Pub, 1997

Synopsis

Based on a traditional tale, this is the story of how the birds decide on who should be their king, and how the diminutive wren outwits its rivals to claim the crown. Ward includes a natural history guide to the hundreds of species illustrated.

About this title

From School Library Journal:

Kindergarten-Grade 4?This poetic retelling of a traditional tale is a feast for both the eye and the ear. Long ago, a grand gathering of all birds was called in order to choose a ruler. After much discussion and dissension, it was agreed that the bird that could fly the highest should be king. Without a moment's hesitation, the competitors burst forth into the sky, with the eagle soaring above them all. Just as the mighty bird reached its zenith, a tiny wren crept from beneath its feathers and rose even higher. Thus, the king was not only the highest flier but also the most clever among them. The tiny wren is a champion of choice for all children who hope to outwit their larger siblings and friends. Ward's brief and lyrical retelling works hand in hand with her glowing artwork to charm readers. The pen-and-ink illustrations colored with watercolors and gouache take full advantage of the spectacle and beauty of the avian world. Each vibrantly colored competitor sets forth from a clean white page and often breaks through the fine-lined borders and margins. An informative appendix lists all of the birds that appear, forming a veritable "Guinness Book of Avian Records." This version of the story is brighter, bolder, and briefer than the one by Shirley Climo and Ruth Heller (HarperCollins, 1991). Storytelling purists will quibble over the lack of source notes, but libraries won't want to pass on this gem.?Jeanne Clancy Watkins, Upper Merion Township Library, King of Prussia, PA
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review:

The familiar folk tale motif of who would be king gets a fresh retelling in this gorgeous picture book. Unable to agree, the birds decide that the one who can fly the highest shall be declared king. The eagle soars the highest ... seemingly. The exquisite, realistic watercolor paintings of birds cleverly and humorously teach with a light touch. Parents' Choice Recommended. -- From Parents' Choice®

About this edition

• Publisher: Templar Pub
• Publication date: 1997
• ISBN 10: 1898784639
• ISBN 13: 9781898784630
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 40