The Otter, the Spotted Frog & the Great Flood

*Starred Review* In this Creek flood story, the world is populated by animal people"; the Noah figure is a river otter, eloquently named Listener, and the flood prophecyas well as instructions for building a watertight raft, anchored to the tallest water oak in the woods"comes in the form of a song from bright-green Spotted Frog. In beautifully direct prose, Hausman evokes Listener's diligence and the watery cataclysm he survives: Far below the gloom, fish flew like silent birds through the sunken trees. Alligators and manatees swam through the silence of the deepening flood." The story's second half, in which a lonely but patient Listener struggles to find companionship (he is eventually rewarded with both a mate and transformation into a human being) may test some younger readers' patience, but Shiloh's (Star Stories for Little Dreamers) illustrations, which have a hand-painted quality, should hold their attention. The pictures are woven into the story and range from folk art-like motifs to strikingly realistic portraiture, creating a sense of a Native American illuminated manuscript. Ages 4-8. Publishers Weekly Like the best traditional tales, this is a story that both entertains and contains meaningful teachings that can be interpreted on more than one level. It's a celebration of life, of the power of spirit and of the importance of listening to all of Creation--from the greatest voice to the most humble. It is also as beautifully designed and illustrated as it is told with luminous artwork by Ramon Shiloh. -- Joseph Bruchac Hausman's vivid storytelling combines masterfully with Shiloh's stunning, colorful images to make this cautionary environmental tale compelling and enjoyable. It is highly recommended for families to read aloud." -- Michael Oren Fitzgerald Ramon is an amazing storyteller and his style of illustration really brings the pages to life." -- Chris Eyre Director of Smoke Signals Shiloh's images of Otter and other animals are so beautifully done and he keeps his illustrations so amazingly simple, you never get distracted from the story." -- Kathy Peltier, Daughter of Leonard Peltier