📖 Overview
Ninja Red Riding Hood retells the classic fairy tale with a martial arts twist. In this version, Red trains at Master Chen's School of Kung Fu before making her journey through the woods.
The wolf, determined to catch his prey, studies at the same dojo to gain an advantage. The story follows their eventual confrontation at Grandma's house, where both characters put their training to use.
The book features rhyming text and dynamic illustrations that capture the energy of kung fu moves and stances. Japanese martial arts terms are woven naturally into the traditional story structure.
This fresh take on a familiar tale explores themes of preparation, self-reliance, and the value of learning new skills. The story challenges gender roles while maintaining the excitement of the original fairy tale.
👀 Reviews
Readers call this a clever, modern twist on the classic Red Riding Hood tale that incorporates martial arts elements. Parents appreciate the message of female empowerment and self-defense.
What readers liked:
- Rhyming text flows naturally and is fun to read aloud
- Detailed illustrations with humor and action
- Shows conflict resolution without violence
- Appeals to both boys and girls
- Works well for teaching comparing/contrasting with original tale
What readers disliked:
- Some found the martial arts theme too forced
- A few mentioned the story feels rushed toward the end
Ratings:
Goodreads: 4.2/5 (1,400+ ratings)
Amazon: 4.7/5 (160+ ratings)
From reviews:
"Perfect blend of girl power and humor" - School librarian on Goodreads
"My karate-loving daughter requests this nightly" - Parent on Amazon
"Rhyming is spot-on without being sing-songy" - Elementary teacher on Goodreads
📚 Similar books
The Three Ninja Pigs by Corey Rosen Schwartz
These pigs learn martial arts to defend against the wolf in this fractured fairy tale told through rhyming verse.
Little Red and the Very Hungry Lion by Alex T. Smith This African spin on Little Red Riding Hood features a clever girl who outsmarts a lion through wit and determination.
Interstellar Cinderella by Deborah Underwood A space mechanic Cinderella uses her tools and technical skills to win the prince's heart in this reimagined fairy tale.
Ninja! by Arree Chung A young ninja moves through his house on a secret mission using stealth and martial arts skills.
Petite Rouge: A Cajun Red Riding Hood by Mike Artell A Cajun duck takes on the role of Red Riding Hood in the Louisiana bayou with a gator playing the part of the wolf.
Little Red and the Very Hungry Lion by Alex T. Smith This African spin on Little Red Riding Hood features a clever girl who outsmarts a lion through wit and determination.
Interstellar Cinderella by Deborah Underwood A space mechanic Cinderella uses her tools and technical skills to win the prince's heart in this reimagined fairy tale.
Ninja! by Arree Chung A young ninja moves through his house on a secret mission using stealth and martial arts skills.
Petite Rouge: A Cajun Red Riding Hood by Mike Artell A Cajun duck takes on the role of Red Riding Hood in the Louisiana bayou with a gator playing the part of the wolf.
🤔 Interesting facts
🥋 Author Corey Rosen Schwartz specializes in fractured fairy tales written entirely in rhyming verse, blending classic stories with martial arts themes.
🐺 The book serves as a companion piece to Schwartz's earlier work "The Three Ninja Pigs," featuring some of the same characters in a new adventure.
🎨 Illustrator Dan Santat, who created the artwork for the book, is a Caldecott Medal winner known for his dynamic, action-packed illustrations.
🥋 The story empowers its female protagonist by having Little Red train in martial arts at the same dojo where the Three Little Pigs learned their skills.
📚 The book incorporates authentic martial arts terminology and movements while maintaining the rhythm and rhyme scheme throughout its narrative.