Booktalks Quick and Simple

Tales handed down from Merry Old England about a boy named Jack who must outwit giants to save his own life, or the life of his family, are the basis for this tale from Southern Appalachia. You all know about Jack and the Beanstalk, right? In this tale, Jack is out walking in the countryside when he is caught in a bad rainstorm. Looking about, he finds one old farmhouse and knocks on the door to ask for shelter for the night. The farmhouse belongs to a two-headed giant and his giant wife. They invite him in, but seem more interested in eating Jack than giving him any help. Whew! What a predicament! Read this hilarious story to see how one bright boy outwits two giants who are up to no good. (Jean B. Bellavance for Pennsylvania Young Reader's Choice Awards, 2005-2006)