Hilda Hen's Search

PreSchool-Grade 1-Hilda Hen is trying to find a secure place to lay and hatch her eggs. Unfortunately, her efforts are thwarted again and again as each perch she chooses proves to be either uncomfortable or previously occupied. A cozy basket turns out to be attached to someone's bicycle handlebars and another comes up full of laundry. Finally, Hilda finds the ideal spot-a child's dollhouse. The linocut illustrations are bold, with thick black outlines painted with watercolor washes. The simple story line; repetitive action; and crisp, clean art make this book especially effective for preschool story programs. Hilda could find a place almost anywhere, but she'll be most comfortable right next to Pat Hutchins's Rosie's Walk (Macmillan, 1968). A successful picture-book debut.
Lynn Cockett, Nutley Public Library, NJ
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Unruffled by the discovery that the henhouse is full, Hilda Hen calmly sets off in search of a nest of her own. Each time she finds a cozy prospect, however, something crops up to keep her from staying to hatch her eggs: straw that's too scratchy, an abundance of kittens, laundry, wind, noise, and so on. Finally, she spies the perfect spot for herself-a dollhouse-and settles down to raise her chicks. First-time author/artist Wormell makes a splendid debut with this gentle tale, masterfully illustrated with bold linocuts. Her art has a comforting solidity, and the chunky lines, jaunty color and unabashedly old-fashioned charm declare this book a winner for preschoolers. Ages 2-6.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.