Esmeralda and the Pet Parade

Linoleum block prints featuring the rich southwestern colors of burnt orange, turquoise and pale gold illustrate this story of Esmeralda, a goat with a nose for trouble. Juan has received the feisty pet as a gift from his grandfather, who vows that ``someday she will be famous!'' Sure enough, Esmeralda fulfills his prophesy at the annual Fiesta, when children dress their pets in costumes and parade through the streets of Santa Fe. Juan's friends are afraid that Esmeralda will misbehave during this important event, and their fears are well founded. Resentful of the leash Juan attaches to her collar, the mischievous goat breaks away and embarks on a wild romp through town that horrifies Juan and his friends--but makes Esmeralda a star for the day. The escapades of Juan's spunky pet move the story along speedily, as Schoberle's sparkling, expressive illustrations--using many regional designs--masterfully capture Esmeralda's every antic. Ages 5-9. (May)