Matti bakes a gingerbread baby as a treat, but when he opens the oven door the little cookie jumps out and runs away, taunting everyone who chases: "Catch me if you can!" The pursuit takes him through a Scandinavian village, where Matti, a dog, a cow and others join the race. Jan Brett's border illustrations show a parallel story, with a group of children building a plan to catch the runaway. The ending turns on a clever replacement that keeps the cookie from meeting the fate of his predecessor in the traditional tale.
Parents and teachers who like to read aloud will find a retelling of the Gingerbread Man with a satisfying twist. It also gives children plenty of picture details to point out on repeat readings.
Practical and clear-cut; an easy read.
Best for readers like The Practical Optimizer. Which reader are you?
- Published
- 1999
- Language
- EN
