THE THREE LITTLE GUINEA PIGS AND THE ANDEAN FOX

Three South American guinea pigs attempt to reconstruct their homes in this take on the well-known story.

When floods wash away the homes of Urku, Inti, and Nina in an Andean valley, they hike in search of a new place to rebuild. Urku heads toward a mountain peak and builds a house from hay, Inti goes to the woods and makes a home from sticks, and Nina goes into town and opts for a house made from stone. But the trio are troubled by a persistent Andean fox who tries to oust them from their homes: “Guinea pig, guinea pig, come with me. / I have something for your family. / Your home design just isn’t wise. / Strong winds could blow it across the skies.” Unlike the wolf in the familiar story, however, the fox is trying to get the guinea pigs to attend a party in their honor; the community has come together to build them a much sturdier home that combines all the materials. It’s a far less scary story than the source material, accompanied by lively, warm illustrations rendered in a muted palette. References to South American culture—the use of Kichwa and Spanish, and the inclusion of Andean animals such as condors—make for an original reimagining. Adults will want to make sure kids are familiar with “The Three Little Pigs” first to ensure they get the most out of this one.

A clever upending of a beloved fairy tale.