Wolf! Wolf!

Abstract

The flyleaf promises This hilarious retelling, with a twist, of the classic Aesop's fable is sure to delight a new generation of readers and vegetarians. The old wolf is trying to grow vegetables, and he is not succeeding. Too many weeds! He hears someone seeming to call him. He locates a boy with a flock of goats, but notices a group coming from the village with sticks. The second time that the wolf hears the cry, he becomes angry at the thought of a second wolf taking the tasty goats. Between the boy's shouts, the old wolf dreams of mu shu goat and double-goat dumplings. The third time no villagers come. The wolf asks the boy if he was calling the wolf over for lunch, and the boy scrambles up a tree. The wolf tells the boy to quit yelling, since the villagers will not come this time anyway. The wolf offers a deal for one goat -- to be tied to the fence post at his garden. The next morning the goat is there! Then he notices many ripe, beautiful vegetables. You ate my weeds, he says to the goat. Why didn't you eat the vegetables? Sorry, I'm a picky eater. Please don't eat me! The wolf smiles and unties the goat. What's one breakfast compared to delicious vegetables for the rest of my days? I could use a friend like you. Rocco adds: Double-goat dumplings are overrated, anyway! The book is set pictorially in old China, complete with silk jackets, bamboo trees, and coolie hats.