Agua, Agua, Agua: An Aesop's Fable

Abstract

Level 2 in Scott, Foresman's designation means that this sturdy, colorful, squarish little book is meant for children ages three to five. The art on the sixteen pages here presents large masses of strong colors, The composite of colors seems Southwestern. I find one serious flaw as we move through the book. There is no pitcher or container mentioned or pictured here. One pair of pages asks about water on this hot day Is it on the mountain? and answers No, no. no. On the next pair of pages we hear of and see water hiding. It seems to be hiding between and under two large stone masses, like rocks on a lakeshore. Three pebbles may not move this water's level up much! The very last page gives the most complete picture of the lifted water. I think that this booklet's attempt does not do justice to the fable. It does a good job of teaching children the Spanish for water and for one, two, three. If I were a three-year old reading this book, I would ask for my $2.95 back.