Luba and Wren

Written by Patricia Polacco

Grade:

1-4

ISBN-13:

978-0399231681

Publisher:

Philomel (1999)

Living a happy but humble life, young Luba wanders into the forest one day and saves a wren. In return, the wren promises Luba anything she wishes, but Luba is content and wishes for nothing. However, when her parents discover this, they demand that Luba return to the wren to ask for a better home and land. The parents grow increasingly greedy, continuing their demands until they ask to become gods. Offering a different conclusion than the traditional Grimm story, this retelling of "The Fisherman’s Wife" could generate a good discussion concerning pride, greed, humility, and what ultimately brings happiness. The author’s sweeping color-rich illustrations add depth and beauty to this thoughtful tale.