The Crystal Pool

School Library Journal

Gr 3-6-The team that brought readers The Golden Hoard (1996), The Silver Treasure (1997), and The Bronze Cauldron (1998, all McElderry) once again delights story lovers' fancy. A variety of cultures are represented as McCaughrean travels far and wide to pull from her story hat tales of a helpful mermaid, a poor man's alchemy, strange transformations, beavers and porcupines, and mothers digging in the earth for babies. Also included is one of the best retellings of "The Pied Piper" to come along in recent years. Fun to read aloud or to one's self, the stories are written in a clear and spirited fashion. Without resorting to slang or common dialogue, McCaughrean deftly incorporates modern language and terms into these ancient tales, rendering them accessible to today's youth. Willey once again plants her bright watercolors in conspicuous spots, using decorative motifs that depict portions of the narratives. A fine introduction to world story, and a perfect complement to the other titles in this series.-Angela J. Reynolds, West Slope Community Library, Portland, OR Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.