Review: Cloaked in Red by Vivian Vande Velde

Synopsis: So you think you know the story of Little Red Riding Hood, the girl with the unfortunate name and the inability to tell the difference between her grandmother and a member of a different species? Well, then, try your hand at answering these questions: Which character (not including Little Red herself) is the most fashion challenged? Who (not including the wolf) is the scariest? Who (not including Granny) is the most easily scared? Who is the strangest? (Notice we’re not “not including” anyone, because they’re all a little off.) Who (no fair saying “the author”) has stuffing for brains? Vivian Vande Velde has taken eight new looks at one of the world’s most beloved (and mixed-up) stories. You may never look at fairy tales in quite the same way again. (from the online description)

Review: This is a collection of 8 version of Little Red Riding Hood, all written by the author.  In subject and plot, the stories have marked differences. But in prose and syntax, they are drearily similar. It is simple, suitable for a reader of the elementary level.

The Red Cloak: The main character learns to have a bit of courage. Cute and sweet.

The Red Riding Hood Doll: Weird. I have no idea what the point was.

Little Red Riding Hood's Family: My favorite! Lots of fairy tale and paranormal characters show up. It’s entertaining.

Granny and the Wolf: The wolf is more like a puppy dog and I’m a sucker for a puppy dog!

Deems the Wood Gatherer: Strange and disturbing and not in a good way.

Why Willy and His Brother Won't Ever Amount to Anything: Amusing , particular if you like other fairy tale. The “twist” at the end was good.

The Little Red Headache: The wolf tries to help, only to have much trouble for his pains.

Little Red Riding Hood's Little Red Riding Hood: This one has the cloak at the main character, and the ending was witty.

Overall, the good stories weren’t enough to make this collection more than just a bland collection. Sad, really, as her similar treatment of Rumplestiltskin was excellent. 

Bookmarks: 

The Red Cloak: 3.5/5
The Red Riding Hood Doll: 2/5
Little Red Riding Hood's Family: 4/5
Granny and the Wolf: 4/5
Deems the Wood Gatherer: 3/5
Why Willy and His Brother Won't Ever Amount to Anything: 3/5
The Little Red Headache: 3/5
Little Red Riding Hood's Little Red Riding Hood: 3/5

Over All: 3 of 5

Awards: None

ISBN: 978-0-7614-5793-0
Year Published: 2010
Date Finished: 11-1-2017
Pages: 127