THE MAGIC BOAT

Again, Demi presents a wise Chinese tale in an elegant setting. Chang is rewarded for a good deed with a toy boat that expands, at need, to save him and his mother from a flood. He also rescues a number of subsequently helpful beasts--and a rogue who absconds with the boat and uses it to become Prime Minister. The animals help Chang outwit the miscreant and the greedy Emperor, thus regaining his treasure. The pattern is familiar, but the story is well told, and the particular incidents are nicely amusing here, while Demi's exquisite illustrations (delicate line, vibrant color, touches of gold, and the magical dragon-boat topped with a fantastic pagoda) extend the Chinese flavor. A good addition to story collections.