The fabled life of Aesop by Ian Lendler, illustrated by Pamela Zagarenski

 This is a very interesting and age-appropriate take on Aesop for elementary students. I was doubtful about it when I first heard of it, and while I don't think it has quite the wide appeal reviews would give it, it will definitely be attractive to some readers.

It starts with the story of Aesop as a young slave, taken from his parents and sent to work in the fields on Samos. Aesop learns to speak the coded language of a slave, to diplomatically answer questions and solve problems for his master. He was highly valued - and sold again. In his new home, Aesop continues to tell his stories, offering wisdom for his masters and underlying lessons for his fellow slaves, "They taught them how to survive in a world that was sometimes unjust and cruel."

This introductory section has spot illustrations; the following section is Aesop's fables and is fully illustrated on glossy pages. Blazing orange landscapes are filled with clever, stupid, brave, and cowardly animals dressed in modern clothing. The swift hare leaps across the page, clad in a vibrant red jacket with tails. A foolish boy, in red boots and a tall fur cap, cries wolf just one too many times. The North Wind blows in golden swirls and lines. A fox, clad in baggy blue shorts and suspenders, leaps for grapes that are just out of his reach.

When the stories are through, we return to the story of Aesop the slave, now a man. After many years of service, his master promises to grant his wish. Aesop tells one more story, and is set free. Free to fly on a bird trailing all the words he spoke and the wisdom he passed on. His words were gathered and shared by many people from many lands, shown in a collection of animals, humans, and languages.

The author's afterword talks about the philosophy of Aesop's fables, what is known of his life and whether or not he truly existed, and how these fables have impacted culture. There is also a bibliography of additional fables and more of the history and literary criticism surrounding them.

Verdict: For families who are homeschooling with classical curriculums, this is a great resource when they study Aesop's fables. The framing device adds more context to the stories and offers room for thought and discussion. Kids can also just enjoy the stories and beautiful art, as many before them have enjoyed these stories.

ISBN: 9781328585523; Published March 2020 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt; Borrowed from another library in my consortium