Feathers and Fools (by Mem Fox)

At first there is harmony, but when the peacocks and swans begin to fear one another because of their differences, their peaceful pond turns into a battlefield--with tragic results. When all seems lost, hope arises, in this profound, well-crafted, and stunningly illustrated modern-day fable worthy of comparison to Aesop's tales.

FEATHERS AND FOOLS is a timely, powerful fable, but parents should choose their audience wisely because, even though most kids will recognize the story's merit, the subject matter may sadden or disturb some. Author Mem Fox makes a point to name the most aggressive peacock "the first-and-most-foolish" and demonstrates in elegant prose how the follies of human nature -- such as prejudice, gossip, and aggression -- can lead to the despair of having to live in fear and, ultimately, face the ravages of war.

The right-hand pages are richly detailed acrylic illustrations with primitive borders, which stand out against a black background. The left-hand text pages are simply illustrated but complement the images on the right.

Author: Mem Fox
Illustrator: Nicholas Wilton
Publisher: Harcourt Brace
Publication date: January 1, 2000
Number of pages: 30
Paperback price: $6.00