The Greedy Little Cobbler

Again, not a beginner's book, this Tony Ross' retelling of fairy tales requires a certain ability to 'read' complex pictures and to recognise the slyness of the humour. This, I think, is an original tale (although it could well be 'Trad. Anon' from its style) but it needs a practised eye and car. I enjoyed the plot - a parable about the dangers of relying on the rich and famous to support the small businessman - and liked the pleasant, conversational flow of the story. The children found plenty to discuss after listening to it and the fluent readers have enjoyed reading it for themselves.