The Goldilocks Variations: A Pop-up Book

Retellings of Goldilocks are many, and this father-daughter team increases the tally by seven in this well-designed and very funny offering. Allan Ahlberg opens with a concise traditional version of the story before diving into increasingly chaotic alternate takes: in "Goldilocks and the 33 Bears," the girl's getaway is thwarted when she runs into dawdling teenage bears outside; an alien encounter, "Goldilocks and the Bliim," has a vocabulary all its own ("Who's been dodderling my spootz?"); and a parody of a children's theater production features audience interaction and a great many dance numbers. Interactive elements are cleverly integrated, and Jessica Ahlberg's prim watercolor cartoons and an overall elegant layout contrast delightfully with the stories' many comedic moments. Ages 5–up. (Oct.)