A magical boy springs from a peach in answer to a lonely couple's wish for a son. But can the boy and his animal friends save the people from wicked oni monsters? In this traditional Japanese folktale, an entire village depends on young Momotaro--the Peach Boy. From the Trade Paperback edition. Distributed by Syndetic Solutions, Inc.

Gr. 1-3. Hooks retells a classic Japanese folktale about Momotaro, the Peach Boy, who springs to life from a peach, becoming the son of an elderly childless couple. He grows to young manhood with the pair, but at 15 feels compelled to leave home to fight the wicked oni monsters who have frightened the villagers and taken their money. Armed with only a sword from his father and a bag of dumplings from his mother, Momotaro sets off. Along the way he meets a dog, a monkey, and a hawk who agree to accompany and help him in his quest. Together, the four defeat the oni, reclaim the stolen treasure, and return to live with Peach Boy's parents. Otani's colorful illustrations show great attention to authentic detail and add an elegance not often found in easy readers. She makes frequent use of peach shades, accented in blues, purples, and greens. Hooks' clear, simple language reads smoothly, making this appropriate as a read-aloud or a read-alone. Children may want to compare this with Mosel's Funny Little Woman. (Reviewed Feb. 1, 1992)0553076213Kay Weisman From: Syndetics Solutions, Inc. Distributed by Syndetic Solutions, Inc.