A Carousel Tale

by: Elisa Kleven, author and illustrator

Published by: Tricycle Press

Reviewed by Patty Inglish

Ernst is a tiny crocodile in a delightful shade of blue. His big brother Sol is all green and crocodile-ly, right down to his usual scowling composure. His red cap brightens him up a smidgen, thus he must be a high-schooler full of angst, but with a bit of style.

Ernst loves the joy of life and his smile matches that of the sunny golden dog he rides on the town carousel–his favorite amusement. When the ride goes undercover for the winter, Ernst is tearful and fearful of the loss, but Ms. Carousel Keeper, the pachyderm, assigns him a duty for the cold months that will both occupy him and remind him of his beloved golden dog. His mission is very important and very responsible. It even makes Sol smile.

Ernst proves to be an innovative project manager that embraces continuous improvement to the hilt. His special mission is filled with creativity, beauty, and an additional joy that only this project can provide. Sol is a bit worried, but reconciles himself to simply keeping an eye on Ernst and reminding him of his ultimate goal – to turn in his project come spring.

Spring surprises the crocodile brothers one sunny morning. They must return to the park and the carousel! Upon submitting his work uncertainly to the Carousel Keeper, Ernst is given yet another project, easier than the first, since he is now an experienced project manager. The smart pachyderm is brilliant in creating the assignment and Ernst is just as bright in its completion.

The choices of creatively assuming responsibility with alternative solutions and projects succeed in this story. Everyone at the park is wearing a sunny smile after Ernst completes both of his projects. This includes the golden dog, the rest of the carousel animals, and the crocodile-ly Sol, whose name is also sunny.

The book illustrations are as sunny as joy and creation, no matter how light or dark the colors used. They provide a lot of positive visual stimulation.

This book will delight children of all ages, especially those feeling a bit crocodile-ly.

Armchair Interviews says: Most delightful—and makes some important points.

Author’s Web site: http://www.ElisaKleven.com