Wicked Jack

I had never heard this folk tale before, so I was pleasantly surprised when I first read this book. It really is delightful, and the pictures are very well drawn. My five year old son hid behind me mid-way through the story, (understandably a little frightening for young children the first time through) but he soon peeked back out at the book, and was right beside me giggling at Wicked Jack's antics again. My husband chuckled so much during this story that I thought maybe I should have bought the book for him instead of our son. It really is a cute story, and has become one of the most requested by our children. Reading it a southern accent really enhances it!

Excellent retelling of an old folktale that you've probably never heard before. A story-line that keeps kids and adults alike interested. Great illustrations.

As a tutor in an elementary school I used this book as often as possible. Frankly, I'm guilty of reading it for the kids who couldn't. The art work is very beautiful and 'Wicked Jack' stirs one's mean funny bone. The type is about 13 or 14 point, and the vocabulary is just right for most 8-9 year olds. However, there's little moral to this story, as Jack is simply shunned.