Hare and Tortoise - by Alison Murray (Hardcover)

About the Book

Originally published: London: Orchard Books, 2015.

Book Synopsis

Alison Murray offers an enchanting retelling of a much-loved Aesop's fable with a mischievous twist.

Hare (Leapus swifticus) can barely stay still for a minute. He's the fastest on the farm. Tortoise (Slow and steadicus) can stay still for a very long time. She has occasionally been mistaken for a rock. So when they decide to have a race, Hare is certain to win . . . isn't he? Through the meadow, around the duck pond, and straight into the carrot field. Carrots? Oh, dear. Whether encountering the classic tale for the first time or tracing the racecourse map to relive it, children will be quick to realize Hare's folly and eager to join the cheering for easygoing, persistent Tortoise. She may be slow, but watch her go!

Review Quotes

It's hard to tell a well-known tale in a fresh, new way, but Allison Murray accomplishes that in her version of these famous competitors...A friendly ending wraps up this excellent piece of bookmaking and reminds us there is more to life than winning--maybe a shared lettuce patch?
--Booklist (starred review)

A delightful and witty retelling of the traditional Aesop fable...The illustrations are the perfect blend of full color and white space. Each character, though simply rendered, shows emotions and energy levels that really aid in telling the story. An absolutely successful retelling of the classic tale; great for storytimes and recommended for any fable collection.
--School Library Journal (starred review)

Murray's storytelling and digital pictures are both balanced and buoyant. The story reads as though it's a book-format Looney Tunes short, from paintings that mimic freeze frames and a sports-commentator voice. Clever and appealing.
--Kirkus Reviews

With warm, lively digital art and snappy narrated text, this new rendition of Aesop's famous race will make a funny and satisfying read-aloud for both those familiar with the fable and those coming to it for the first time...Smart design makes the story more engaging through strategic page-turns and page layouts that cleverly illustrate the widening gap between the two characters as they make their way through the meadow and past the duck pond, the carrot field, and the shady tree.
--The Horn Book

Timeless and timely, Aesop again invites families to talk about the almost inevitable consequences of sloppy habits and boasting.
--San Francisco Chronicle

About the Author

Alison Murray is the author-illustrator of several books for children, including Hickory Dickory Dog, The House That Zack Built, and Princess Penelope and the Runaway Kitten. She lives in Scotland.