(2) K-3 Hannigan's (Spider in the Well, rev. 3/24) alternative take on "Goldilocks and the Three Bears" presents the outlandish actions and delusional interpretations of a child narrator as they attempt to justify their baseless fear of the "BEAR out there." The loudmouthed, overly confident kid with messy red hair is safe inside a cozy little cottage; however, their first-person direct address to the reader is full of overblown reactions ("SAVE YOURSELF!") and questionable assertions ("I've been told that I am very coolheaded"). When eventually confronted by an actual bear, the child escapes by crashing through a window, prompting the perturbed creature to reveal that "this is literally my house!" The fast-moving narrative is quirky and unpredictable, bouncing between topics and emotions with the speed of an active youngster. Vibrant and punchy, the candy-colored illustrations are a bold blend of painted imagery and paper collage, complete with visible brushstrokes and hints of shadow created by overlapping paper. Hand-lettered text with a vaguely retro feel, often used for emphasis or for sounds ("RATTLE, RATTLE. CREEEAK"), is fully integrated into the illustrations. Frequent shifts between page layouts (for example, from text-only on a painted black page to a double-page spread of a humorously foreshortened hand meant to silence the reader's reaction) make the book visually interesting and playful. A funny, well-crafted, and self-aware commentary on traditional fairy-tale tropes.

Reviewer: Patrick Gall | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2025

(2) K-3 Our hardworking protagonist, the newsboy, wears many hats. Though his primary job is "to bring to the town of Bad Goodsburg their daily news," he also acts as chimney sweep, shoe shiner, and milk deliverer. "He was assured by the townspeople that this was a fair arrangement." One day breaking news brings an upsetting update: the local wishing well is on the fritz, leaving the town's doctor, shopkeeper, and baker's purportedly altruistic wishes (health, happiness, and sustenance for all) ungranted. They call on the newsboy to investigate, and he discovers several unexpected, and humorous, truths. With three brief sections, the narrative is well paced and easy to follow. Digital illustrations in a limited palette have the look of chunky, weighty woodcuts combined with simple-shaped children's drawings; faces are round or oblong, noses are red circles, and eyebrows look like smiles or frowns. There are unique perspective shifts, too, such as the newsboy looking into the well -- and the spider gazing back up from inside. In the end, the three mendacious wishers are brought to "justice...sort of," and a twist conclusion sees the put-upon protagonist seizing his opportunity -- and then some, thanks to a little blackmail and extortion.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2024