Age 00-04. 2 Stars. This is a very different version of the fairy tale told by Rumer Godden about an old woman who lives in a vinegar bottle…. this one is clearly intended for younger readers; there is some verbal repetition (“What a pity, pity, pity”) as opposed to the more lyrical style in Godden. The artwork is brash and colorful, and the moral lesson is much less subtle. If Godden’s version didn’t exist this one might make a good library checkout, but I’m afraid it might spoil readers for Godden’s most excellent story.

Age 04-08. 2 Stars. This picture-book biography presents the major events of his life with Demi’s characteristically beautiful illustrations…. Young children will probably be unable to separate the spiritual aspects of the story from the qualities that earned Ghandi’s reputation as a “Great Soul.” Our family will have to wait until a later, more sophisticated age to introduce this important human figure to our children.

Age 08-12. 5 Stars. A beautiful story of a “girl Robinson Crusoe”…. This is a quiet, memorable story of survival and persistence in the face of difficult conditions and profound grief. Karana’s practical means of surviving against the elements and predators are interesting in themselves, but her courage in facing hunger and danger, and living alone year after year, make her a heroine worth emulating.

Age 04-08. 5 Stars. A charming variation of the traditional story…. The artwork is pleasing, and the storytelling includes oral storytelling conventions which, from the author’s preface, seem to be drawn from the story’s being retold within his family for four generations.