Peach Boy and Other Japanese Children's Favorite Stories

Rating:
Summary: Fantastic Beasts and Magical Critters abound!
Review: This book is a wonderful way to explore the similarities and differences among fairy tales of different countries. Some classic themes emerge - such a childless couple whose prayers are answered when they receive a child from an unusual source (such as a peach, in the title story). Or Silly Saburo, who takes all instructions too literally, like a Japanese Amelia Bedelia. Then there are some delightfully bizarre and unique tales, such as The Magic Teakettle, in which the teakettle is really a talented and lucky badger in disguise, or The Long-Nosed Goblins, whose noses can travel for miles to search out good smells. The illustrations, some color and some black & white, are charming and bring the endearing characters to life. I would recommend this book for children 4 - 8 (and adults who can't resist).