Kimmel and Docampo (The Three Little Tamales, 2009) join creative forces again and share a new version of this Spanish folktale. Medio Pollito, or half-chick, is hatched with only “one eye, one leg, one wing, with half a comb and half a beak.” Born with a fully blown adventurous streak, he yearns to travel to Madrid and meet the king. While his fellow barnyard fowl make fun of his dream, his mother supports his desire to explore. On the way, Medio Pollito encounters a stream, campfire and wind. Each begs for his help and promises the same in the future. Once in the big city, Medio Pollito finds himself in a pot of trouble, but all ends well as Agua, Fuego and Viento come to his aid. Readers will celebrate his arrival at “the tip of the tallest spire on the grandest cathedral” where “he stands to his day” as a weather vane. The lush acrylics complement the veteran reteller’s engaging, straightforward unfurling of the tale. Definitely make room for this wholehearted book on the shelf. (note) (Picture book/folktale. 4-8)
