Little Red by Bethan Woollvin
I suspect that there are more than I will ever be able to determine.
If that is true, what's so special about this particular version?
Let me count some of the ways that make Woolvin's interpretation a standout.
- The cover
But really, it's the eyes that demand attention. She is NOT looking at the reader. She is looking toward the book's interior. One might ask: What is she looking at? Why has she focused all of her attention on what is within the pages of the book?
- The design
The lines are bold and the images are equally striking. The wolf dominates the space on any page in which he appears, often spanning the spread. He is a force to be reckoned with.
We learn of his schemes through an interesting visual device: we see the workings of his mind in the form of images inside his head, rather than a thought bubble. Captivating!
- The eyes
However, during her dialog with the wolf, the eyes change from a sideways glance and she looks up. This expression speaks volumes as to what she is actually thinking as she and the wolf exchange a series of questions and answers. It's not simply a verbal exchange. Her face reveals how she actually perceives his responses.
- The unexpected
- The text
"made a plan", "unlucky for", and "but not this little girl". Youngsters will enjoy chanting aloud these phrases, especially "but not this little girl". This increases reader involvement and enhances the story experience.