Chanticleer and the Fox: A Caldecott Award Winner

I like this book as much as the next reader but why isn't Chaucer's name even on the edition I bought. I realize that it isn't anyones fault because the illustrations kind of do steal the show, like all books illustrated by Barbara Cooney, but I still think the author should have some recognition.(Also, why does Chanticleer have more than one wife).

Chanticleer and the Fox, an adaptation of the Nun's Priest's Tale, is a simple and delightful tale with a moral (or three) at the end. Chanticleer and the other characters learn about the dangers of failing to be watchful, talking when one should be silent, and trusting in flattery. Barbara Cooney's illustrations are simple and warm, yet she gives a glimpse of what life might have looked like for a family in the Middle Ages. The book is suitable for an early reader or for reading aloud to younger children, although older children and adults would enjoy it as well. If you want more Chaucer for older children, without the rhyme or Middle English, you might want to try The Canterbury Tales, Retold by Geraldine McCaughrean, Illustrated by Victor G. Ambrus. Some material in that book, however, might need some parental guidance for younger readers. Chanticleer and the Fox is appropriate for children of all ages.

I have been looking for Newberry and Caldecott Award books for my 4 children and was happy to find this Caldecott Medal book from 1959. I love Barbara Cooney's "Miss Rumphius", and this adaptation of the Nun's Priest's Tale from Geoffrey Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" was a delightful way to introduce my children to some classic literature. My girls got a glimpse of medieval times from the story and the illustrations, and I loved the simple way Barbara Cooney brought out the industry and economy of the poor widow as she takes care of her children, livestock and house. The pictures are precise and brilliant, but not overpowering. The description of Chanticleer elevates him from an ordinary rooster to a work of art. The story has the virtue of pointing out the folly of listening to flattery as well as the value of quick thinking on Chanticleer's part in a perilous situation. I didn't like the reference to trusting in dreams (nightmares), but felt I could incorporate it into a teaching point as I read it to my children. All in all, I am glad to add it to our collection.