Putting a spin on a classic tale can be a great way to bring out a few laughs. And today’s book, Ninja Red Riding Hood, does just that. In this story, Wolf has hit rough times. His belly is achin’ for bacon, but to huff and puff is no longer enough. He needs to find some new moves.

Ninja School

So, it’s off to Ninja School for Wolf. In this spin on a classic tale, Wolf has hit rough times. In the words of the author, ‘He kept getting licked by the dinner he picked.’ So, Wolf sneaks into Ninja School to toughen up and learn some technique.

Dinner Time!

With a new found toughness, Wolf is now ready to catch a good meal, and who does he meet but Red herself on her way to Grandma’s.  Wolf has all his cunning back and the moves to go with it. He jumps out to gobble up Red, but …

Red went to Ninja School too!

I won’t give away the ending, because I really enjoyed it and don’t want to spoil it. But your kids will love it. Wolf and Red are evenly matched, so it’s an entertaining battle, well written and not too fierce. After all, at the core of martial arts is respect and inner peace. That’s all I will say. Except to say, I think the illustrations really cap off the writing beautifully.

My Favourite Big Bad Wolf!

Dan Santan’s Wolf in this story is my favourite Big Bad Wolf, he just depicts him perfectly. Love it. And love this story.

Details

Title: Ninja Red Riding Hood
Author: Corey Rosen Schwartz
Illustrator: Dad Santat
Publisher: Penguin Group, USA, 2014

For more of Corey’s wonderful writing visit her website, where she talks about how her idea for Ninja Red Riding Hood came about, and her other books too. http://www.coreyrosenschwartz.com/Home.html

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