Overview of "The Funny Little Woman" by Arlene Mosel

Plot Summary: "The Funny Little Woman" is a Japanese folktale retold by Arlene Mosel and illustrated by Blair Lent. The story is set in old Japan and revolves around a little old woman who loves to laugh and make dumplings out of rice. One day, one of her dumplings rolls down a hole, and she chases it, leading her to a strange underground tunnel lined with Jizo (guardian statues). Despite warnings from the Jizo to avoid the tunnel because of the wicked oni (monsters) that live there, the little woman ventures further and is captured by an oni. The oni takes her to their house, where she is forced to cook for them. However, she tries to escape by sneaking off with a magic paddle. Despite being caught, she makes the oni laugh, and they let her go. She returns home, uses the magic paddle to make dumplings faster than ever, and becomes the richest woman in Japan.

Key Themes:

1. Laughter and Humor: The story emphasizes the power of laughter and humor. The little woman's tendency to laugh ("Tee-he-he-he") often gets her into trouble but also helps her escape from the oni.
2. Cultural Beliefs: The book is deeply rooted in Japanese folklore and cultural beliefs. It features elements of traditional Japanese art and the interaction with gods and supernatural beings like the oni.
3. Resourcefulness and Determination: The little woman's determination to retrieve her dumpling and her resourcefulness in using the magic paddle to escape and return home are key themes.

Critical Reception: "The Funny Little Woman" has received widespread critical acclaim for its perfect matching of art and text. The book won a Caldecott Medal in 1973 for its illustrations, which are rendered in acrylic colors and contribute to the magical mood of the tale. Reviewers have praised the book for its unique storytelling style, where the text often spans one side of the page while the illustration takes up the opposite side, creating a visually engaging experience. The book is considered a model of what a superb picture book can be, blending art and text seamlessly to tell a captivating story.

In summary, "The Funny Little Woman" by Arlene Mosel is a beautifully illustrated and engaging picture book that retells a Japanese folktale with themes of laughter, cultural beliefs, and resourcefulness. Its unique storytelling style and magical illustrations have made it a beloved classic in children's literature.