Tony Ross, Silly Mr Wolf, Andersen Press Ltd, 32 pp., RRP $27.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781783447817
Tony Ross, illustrator of over 800 books, has created Silly Mr Wolf, a classic stranger danger tale of a wolf who has grown out of sheeps’ clothing (literally!) and now tries to trick sheep with a variety of sharp suits and a large paper bag over his head.
This simple story will entertain young readers from 3-6, with its tongue in cheek humour and lively illustrations, however it also provides an introduction into more serious topics, such as personal safety. Although Mr Wolf is portrayed as silly (and to be honest, the sheep aren’t too clever either), the ease with which he assumes different identities in order to capture his dinner alludes to the ease with which adults might impersonate young people online.
With comic appeal and lots to laugh about, Silly Mr Wolf could be a light-hearted read aloud or a simple introduction to an important discussion. Recommended for Early Years’ collections in school libraries and child care centres.
Reviewed by Kay Oddone
