Dust Devil

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Isaacs, Anne. 2010. Dust Devil. Ill. by Paul Zelinsky. New York: Schwartz & Wade Books. ISBN 0375967221

PLOT SUMMARY

In this tall tale, author Anne Isaacs continues the story of Angelica Longrider, first introduced in Issacs’s Caldecott Award Honor Book, Swamp Angel.  

This exaggerated narrative is set in Montana during the first half of the 19^th century.  The story attributes buttes, the Grand Canyon, geysers, and other natural features to Angelica’s larger-than-life antics.  In addition to her other accomplishments, Angelica tames a wild horse named Dust Devil.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Dust Devil is a perfect example of a tall tale.  It contains an extravagant main character, hilarious activities, and engaging dialogue.  Angelica is a heroic character who represents goodness.  Although there are several conflicts throughout the story, the main conflict consists of Angelica attempt to rescue the town from villain Backward Bart and his Flying Desperadoes.  

The setting of the story is identified as Montana, but little description is provided beyond that.  Like other tall tales, Dirt Devil has the message of good triumphing over evil and explains the origins of features that are well known to many (the Grand Canyon, for example).  Isaacs’s writing style gives a decidedly Old Western feel to the story.  The text will remind the reader of the narration of an Old Western movie.  This book is most appropriate for ages 5-9.  Younger children will be overwhelmed by the detailed story.

Paul Zelinsky’s illustrations were painted in oils on cedar, aspen, and maple veneers.  The hyperbolic illusrations match the hyperbolic nature of the story.  Zelinsky’s illustrations of the Desperadoes are especially amusing as he is able to make them incredibly ugly.  Children will enjoy looking at Zelinsky’s inclusion of even the smallest details.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Starred review in Booklist:  “[A] handsomely designed, thoroughly entertaining stand-alone sequel.”

Starred review in Publishers Weekly:  “Will have kids howling.”The New York Times Book Review:  “Precise and witty illustrations.”

CONNECTIONS

This book would be a perfect introduction to a geography or history lesson on Montana or Western expansion.