Kirkus
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A book about the myths and facts associated with the four elements. The text is divided into four parts, each of which contains about nine chapters--ranging in length from one paragraph to one spread--full of legends, mythical beasts, magical practices, snatches of poetry, bits of information, rituals, and even news items from all over the world linked with earth, fire, water, and air. Hoffman (Boundless Grace, p. 711, etc.) enthusiastically pushes the message to protect the environment, and the assembly of material certainly makes for fun reading. Ray creates a kind of folksy surrealism, embedding stylized figures in textured backgrounds that contain gold dust, ornamental flora and fauna, and scraps of maps. There are a number of memorable depictions of mythical creatures; while the book is recommended for older readers (and is bound to enliven reports and presentations), the pictures are sure to make lasting impressions in the minds of five-year- olds. A genuine feast for the eyes. (Picture book. 9+)

Horn Book
(c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Fiction: water Age: and air."" Myths, legends, superstitions, proverbs, and other materials from art and literature reveal a wealth of ideas and images from around the world that are connected to the Horn Rating: Recommended, satisfactory in style, content, and/or illustration. Reviewed by: four elements."""" Sumptuous watercolors tinged liberally with gold underscore the richness of our links to earth (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.