I Love You No Matter What: A Prince Chirpio Story

A framing device of a story within a story draws parallels between parental love and God%E2%80%99s love in this subtle, appealing rendition of the parable of the prodigal son. When Little Blue, knowing he had been naughty, says, " %E2%80%98Since you probably don%E2%80%99t love me anymore, I%E2%80%99m leaving the big oak tree for good,%E2%80%99 " Daddy Blue tells a story of Prince Chirpio. Ignoring his father, King Puffbelly%E2%80%99s, cautious warnings, the prince takes his inheritance, a bag of birdseed, and heads off for adventure. A dragonfly, caterpillar, and turtle all provide friendship until his birdseed his gone; then they abandon him, saying: " %E2%80%98Maybe the pigs in the next pasture will share their food with you.%E2%80%99 " Rutland%E2%80%99s (Alligator Wedding) initial illustrations appear against a stark white backdrop, two to four discrete images per spread. Color and apparel distinguish the father/son pairs: Daddy Blue wears shirt and tie and Little Blue sports a baseball cap, while Chirpio and his father, both bright yellow, wear crowns and purple vests. The story concludes with both sons realizing the depth of their father%E2%80%99s love in this entertaining, well-executed retelling of a much loved tale. Ages 4-7. (Feb.)