Jill and the Beanstalk (Chinese-English)

Author: Manju Gregory
Illustrated by: David Anstey
Paperback: 24 page(s)
Age Range: 5 - 8
Ontario curriculum: Language - Reading

Book Description:

Told in rhyme, this is an exciting new version of an old favorite where Jill takes on the evil giant to save her family. Throughout the story she meets characters from various nursery rhymes such as Little Bo Peep, the Queen of Hearts... Children will enjoy the rhymes at the back of the book and will love the special text that makes Jill a very self assured young girl. "Jack couldn't help feeling envious of Jill, he wished he'd climbed a beanstalk instead of a hill...."

Books for Keeps
Jack's sister, Jill, plays the lead role in this version of the familiar tale. The story is told in rhyme with allusions to various (mostly well-Known) nursery rhymes dotted throughout for the reader to pick out. All the nursery rhymes alluded to are helpfully supplied, in full, at the end of the book. The beginning sets the scene superbly. It's a clever idea, imaginatively illustrated and is likely to have instant appeal. It's a title you want to pick up and look at.