Beast and the Boy

A scary-looking beast and a weak-looking boy befriend each other and, through a daring rescue, show how deceptive looks can be

Kindergarten-Grade 2?Mostacchi's story gently conveys the universal theme of appreciating the internal qualities of others. A fierce-looking, lionlike beast and a small, weak boy named Marco both find themselves outcasts because of their physical appearances. They become friends and decide to share their lives together. When Marco's parents come looking for the young runaway and are threatened by a pack of wolves, the beast and the boy bravely come to the rescue. The parents invite the beast to live with them and he and the boy are viewed in a new light in the town because of their valor. Miceli's full-page watercolors done in shades of greens and browns capture the fanciful quality of the story. This is a simple yet meaningful fable that will fit nicely into units on self-confidence and respect for others. It makes a nice read-aloud with good discussion potential.?Cheryl Cufari, N.A. Walbran Elementary School, Oriskany, NY
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Ages 4^-7. In a satisfying translation, a friendly lion, scorned by local children because of "sharp eyes and long fangs," becomes friends with a runaway boy named Marco. Together they save Marco's parents from wolves, and the beast becomes a valued member of the family. Miceli's lion, who looks as if he has had a permanent wave, is more cozy than scary; and Marco, with large, dark eyes and a constant grin (except when he's chasing wolves), has an appealing, jolly demeanor. The plot is involving, and Miceli's stylized paintings are a fine complement to the solid, read-aloud text. Janice Del Negro