How the Animals Saved the Ark and Put Two and Two Together

Biblical retellings often take on an awe-inspired tone, but Smith's retelling of Noah and the Ark is funny and down-to-earth. At the beginning, Mrs. Noah is trying to teach the animals math. But they complain that they're hot and that addition is boring. It isn't long before the animals realize the importance of adding one plus one, as they pair off to board the ark. After the waters subside, Mrs. Noah tells the animals to go out and multiplyan action the animals find much more fun than addition. While the final quip about multiplying will be more readily understood by adults, children will enjoy the matter-of-fact tone and Smith's comical illustrations. Ages 5-8. (Mar.)