A New Twist on Little Red Riding Hood

I love reading those classic fairy tales with my students and children. They have such great stories that teach our children some important lessons, but I am always amazed at home many children have not heard so many of these classic fairy tales. Today's Book Talk Thursday focuses on one of my favorites with a little bit of a twist.

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Little Red by Bethan Woollvin, a Virginia Readers' Choice selection, tells the story of Little Red Riding Hood in a new and updated way.

Book Summary

It's the classic story of Little Red Riding Hood, but now we have a strong female character. Little Red is more than just a little girl taking food to grandma. She quickly realizes that the wolf has a motive and comes up with a plan of her own to save herself. The twist on the story will help children of all ages, especially young girls, realize their potential.

Classroom Application

Little Red can be used in many ways. I used it as an easy way to show story elements. Since the story is somewhat similar to the original story, my fourth graders and I worked together to create a story map to show those main elements of the story. This very simple story line helped them find those elements and explain each one.

Of course, we can always compare the story to other versions of the story. A simple Venn Diagram will help children see the likenesses and differences.

But the one thing that stood out for me was Little Red's eyes. Throughout the story, her eyes move in different ways, creating suspense and seeing into Little Red's head. The reader can draw conclusions about what may or may not happen with Little Red. What a great way to help children with this tricky skill!

Bethan Woollvin did a wonderful job retelling the story in the book Little Red. The simple story becomes more complex through the pictures and theme of the story. You don't want to miss this one!