The Funny Little Woman (Picture Puffins)
by Arlene Mosel, Blair Lent
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Book Summary Information
Author: Arlene Mosel, Blair LentEdition: Mass Market Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 1993-02-14
ISBN: 0140547533
Number of pages: 40
Publisher: Puffin
Book Reviews of The Funny Little Woman (Picture Puffins)
Book Review: Hee hee hee
Summary: 4 Stars
From the pen that brought us the adventures of "Tikki Tikki Tembo" (no I am NOT going to repeat his full name) comes the tale of "The Funny Little Woman". Funny, that is, because she finds everything in the world so very amusing. I'll begin by stating that this 1973 Caldecott winner is probably not very accurate in its representations of Japan. That said, let's move on and examine a story that contains elements of everything from "Strega Nona" and the song "On Top of Spaghetti" to that ancient tale of the "The Gingerbread Man".This is the story of a funny little woman who lives all by herself in her own little hut. She's a dumpling maker by trade, and one day a naughty dumpling escapes down a crack in her floor. As she reaches for it, the floor gives way and the woman finds herself on an ancient road surrounded by statues of gods. The statues warn the woman not to attract the attention of the local Oni (an evil demon) but the woman's giggles can't keep her hidden for long. Soon she's cooking for all the Oni in their homes with the help of a magic paddle. By the end, however, the woman wishes to return to her house and it is only when she is able to make the Oni laugh at her (rather than vice versa) that she is enabled to escape and prosper.
Like all good folktales, this one contains elements that are familiar throughout the world. Illustrator Blair Lent (also of "Tikki Tikki Tembo" fame) has outdone himself with these pictures. The castles of the Oni are a deep jade green. When the funny little woman runs before them, her bright orange dress glowing brightly and the contrast is superb. The story is one that kids will enjoy as well. Though the Oni are fearsome, the threat they pose is somewhat minimal. After all, they just want to be fed. The added element of having the woman laugh at unexpected (and sometime unwarranted) times gives the story an extra-added kick. Kids will really enjoy the picture of the demons sitting, their cheeks full of river water and their bellies distended.
Though this tale really doesn't have the staying power of its better-known predecessor, it is still a worthwhile read. Anyone interested in reading a story that examines the perils that come with living in an enchanted world will enjoy this delightful tale.
Summary of The Funny Little Woman (Picture Puffins)
While chasing a dumpling, a little lady is captured by wicked creatures from whom she escapes with the means of becoming the richest woman in Japan.Anthologies Books
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