". . . beautiful full-color folktale storybook that will enchant every child from 6 to 66 . . . seasoned with a peppering of Basque words (and easy pronunciation guides) to add to the authentic flavor. The watercolor illustrations are exquisite. This beautiful book, pitting quick-witted Nekane against the wily lamiña, is sure to become a family favorite."
--The Basque Studies Program Newsletter, University of Nevada, Reno
"In compellingly expressionistic art, the Chinese-born illustrator creates free-flowing images in vibrant watercolor. Araujo's narration of this satisfying Red Riding Hood variant is brisk and informal, with plenty of lively dialogue that will be fun to share aloud. A fine story hour choice."
--Kirkus Reviews
"The strong female character and nonviolent ending will gratify the politically correct, while a glossary emphasizes the book's multiculturalism. Araujo's well-paced telling is fresh and atmospheric, as are the unusual watercolor illustrations. One color seeps into another, creating a fluid, appropriately fanciful effect." --Publishers Weekly
"Xiao Jun Li's watercolor paintings have a light, lilting translucence that leaves plenty of room for the imagination. Storytellers looking for strong female leads will like this one; Little Red Riding Hood could learn a thing or two from Nekane."
--The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
"The bright watercolor paintings outlined by delicate pencil lines ... portray the action effectively and energetically. Use this volume with fairy-tale units as a variation on a theme."
--Booklist
". . . unlike Red Riding Hood, the heroine of this Basque folktale is resourceful and quick thinking. Araujo's text is nicely paced and reads aloud well . . . Li's pictures are strong and vibrant. The ethereal quality of the watercolor medium provides a fluidity that complements the story's shape-shifting motif. A fine addition that should prove useful in multicultural and comparative folklore curricula."
--School Library Journal
