Out of the Egg - written and illustrated by Tina Matthews

The Red Hen wants help but does not get any - and this makes her very angry with the other animals on the farm. The story may sound familiar at the beginning but then along comes the little red chick who teaches her mother and the uncooperative farm animals the values of sharing and forgiveness. A small surprise awaits the cat, the rat and the pig at the end.
Simple and easy to read, the author Tina Matthews has used limited primary colours against black and white illustrations for greater visual impact. This book can be used as a good example of alternative fairy tales and the teaching of values.

reviewed by Janice Rodrigues