Plot Summary:

Angelica Longrider, aka Swamp Angel, moves out to Montana, tames the Dust Devil, and defeats the infamous Backward Bart Gang. Follow her exploits in 1831 Montana where the side effects of her activities create the Buttes of Montana, the Grand Canyon, Sawtooth Ridge and more!

Critical Analysis:

A “genuine Montana story” with good triumphing over evil, this original tall tale tells humorous stories about how Montana’s landmarks were created. Ms. Isaacs uses entertaining turns of phrase such as, “pricklier than porcupines in a cactus punch” and “flatter than butter melting on a flapjack in a fry pan” to stir the imagination. Mr. Zelinsky’s oil paintings of Angelica’s exploits explode with color and exaggerated humor. Children will enjoy the comical Backwards Bart, while adults will appreciate the word play. This story begs to be read aloud.

Review Excerpts:

New York Times Notable Children’s Book of the Year 2010

Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Winner 2010

Kirkus Reviews – “Artfully crude, comedic artwork, friendly, understated narration and a wildly hyperbolic story combine to create a new classic.”

School Library Journal – “After 16 years the dynamic duo is back. She’s a wordsmith. He likes to kill himself by painting on wood. Clearly, Dust Devil was meant to be.”

Connections:

*Have students explore exaggerated, descriptive writing.

*Students can learn how humor and adjectives can enhance writing.

Read more tall tales books:

Isaacs, A. (1996). Swamp Angel. ill by Zelinsky, P.O. Puffin Books. ISBN 978-0140559088

Kellogg, S. (1984). Paul Bunyan, A Tall Tale. Harper Collins. ISBN 9780688058005