Boy Soup.

When Giant woke up one morning he felt dreadful: “With a big hurting head … I am sore I am sick I feel awful, he said.” Reaching for his Giant’s Home Medical Guide he finds the only recommended remedy was a bowl of boy soup. Although he knows it is not ethical to eat boys, he is so ill that he feels the end justifies the means. Reaching down to snatch some boys for the soup he also accidentally grabs a girl, Kate. Using her quick thinking and ingenuity she persuades Giant that he misread the recipe and that the soup is to be made by boys and not of boys. Needless to say the story ends happily for all involved, including the rather lovable giant who promises not to eat boys ever again in the future!

Readers will enjoy the tension of the predicament the children find themselves in and admire Kate’s cleverness in outwitting the giant. They will love the revolting ingredients of the soup and the resultant product: “And oh, the aroma, like skunk in a pot.” The text, comprised of catchy, humorous, rhyming verse, flows smoothly and creates the feel of a traditional folk tale complete with satisfying resolution. The vibrant illustrations of the renowned Michael Martchenko are full of details that invite perusal and comment. They perfectly complement the humour of the text, depicting the discomfort of the giant and the desperation of the children as they strive to make this a win-win situation!

This title is a reissue of the very popular 1996 version which was originally illustrated by the author. I am sure that this edition will be as popular as the first. While it is aimed at children aged four to seven, older children will certainly find pleasure in this story. The title can be used in many situations from story times to summer programs and should be a purchase for all libraries as well as a delightful addition to an individual child’s bookshelf. Highly recommended.