FIDDLER AND HIS BROTHERS

A bright, successful literary tale with the energy and elements of a traditional folk-tale. Fiddler is the youngest of three brothers setting out to seek their fortunes. His older brothers' talents include ""the strength of a bear"" and ""the speed of a horse"" but all Fiddler can do is fiddle. His brothers sneer, but it is Fiddler's music (as well as good sense) that makes all their fortunes. In a plot highly reminiscent of Molly Whuppie, Fiddler goes to the home of a witch and her daughter to retrieve stolen property belonging to the royal household: a magic lantern that turns day into night; a goat with golden horns adorned with happiness bells; and a rose-embroidered vest that keeps its wearer well. With wit and style, Fiddler returns the stolen property to gain rewards of house, meadows, and the princess to wife. More articulation in the characters' faces and a less cartoonish aspect to the illustrations would have made this picture book outstanding; but the fine, rousing story could easily be adapted to telling aloud.