Three Hens and a Peacock

Reviews

Cole's engaging illustrations in watercolor, ink, and colored pencils are bold and humorous and explode with color. The three hens and peacock express their confusion, anger, and shock with popping eyes, pointy beaks out of joint, and plenty of wing flapping. Endpages are decorated with a delicate peacock feather motif. The huffy hens dressed in jewelry and hair ribbons as they try to attract attention are sure to evoke giggles at storytime or in a one-on-one setting. But the ending will amp up the interest and excitement as the crate with a little clue breaks open. A delightful choice for schools and public libraries. —School Library Journal

There is nothing new about the moral of this story—it is better to do your best at what you are best at than make a bad job of trying to be someone else. However, Lanimack's lively language and Coles amusing illustrations make this a fresh and effective illustration of the moral. —Children's Literature