The Fiery Salamander by Colin Thiele

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