Review:
May 24 2007
The Fiery Salamander by Colin Thiele
Lothian Hatchette, 2007
Age 6-12. A classic story of co-operation and courage, Colin Thiele's
last book tells the story of brave animals that defeat a wicked
salamander. The animals live in a beautiful land in the shadow of a
mountain but every month they face the threat of a fiery salamander
that comes down from his volcano home in search of something to eat. It
is not until the animals gang together and show exceptional bravery and
cunning that their enemy is overcome.
This is an exciting story with four short chapters that will really
appeal to beginning readers and is also ideal to read aloud. The
language is vivid and the animal characters are beautifully described.
Working together, each group uses their particular skill to bring down
the salamander. Spider monkey uses his brains, the cheetah his speed
and the elephants, buffaloes and oxen use their strength to kill their
enemy. Mark Wilson's pencil drawings capture the characteristics of
each animal and enhance the story.
Pat Pledger
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Consulting, 2007