FEDERICO AND THE WOLF

A reboot of the classic tale of “Little Red Riding Hood” brings new flavors to an old favorite.

Federico is given the job of riding his bike to the market for the ingredients on Abuelo’s grocery list, but he soon becomes the object of a hungry wolf’s attention. When the wolf (bloodlessly) takes Abuelo’s place in an attempt to make Federico his lunch, Federico must use his wits and his grocery basket to save the day. While the Red Riding Hood story is a familiar one, the clean abcb rhymes in this retelling give the story a contemporary feel. Federico’s sleeveless, red, hooded sweatshirt and cool shaved hairstyle also give the story an update. Chavarri’s vibrant illustrations include plenty of colorful details for observant readers, such as a luchador mask–themed shopping bag and papel picado bunting at the market. The infusion of Spanish words on almost every page works perfectly with the settings and adds cultural specificity to Federico’s journey to visit his abuelo. Main characters are depicted as a Latinx family with shades of light brown skin and straight black, brown, or white hair. A recipe for the “perfect pico de gallo” salsa—key to Federico’s thwarting of the wolf—is included at the end of the story for a delicious way to extend the fun.

Bright visuals and culinary elements will appeal to readers seeking a twist on the familiar.