Review of THE HUNGRY COAT

Bibliography:

Demi. 2004. The hungry coat: A tale from Turkey. Illustrated by the author. New York: Margaret K. McElderry Books. ISBn 0689846800

Review:

Before Nasrettin Hoca, a Turkish wise man, attends a friend’s banquet, he stops to help capture a loose goat. As a result, he arrives at his friend’s house wearing his old dirty, smelly coat. The host and other guests ignore Nasrettin and do not even offer him food. The wise man leaves and goes home to bathe and change in to finer clothes. Upon his return, he is welcomed and seated next to the host. As Nasrettin begins to feed the banquet food to his coat, the banquet guests watch in amazement. When asked about his actions, Nasrettin explains that since he had been ignored when he was in his old clothes, he reasoned that his coat had been the one invited to the party. Thus, not only do the party guests learn a wise lesson, but the readers of The Hungry Coat also learn that “Many a good man may be found under a shabby coat.” Author/illustrator Demi retells this Turkish folktale centering on the popular folk hero, Nasrettin Hoca who “riding about on his little gray donkey . . . liked to help whomever he could”. The stunning paint and ink illustrations, framed with rug-like borders, are the focal point of each page capturing the readers’ attention with the use of gold foil, bright colors, detailed patterns, and action-filled scenes. Even the end pages include an amusing series of images of Nasrettin Hoca being tossed around on his donkey's back. For those not familiar with Turkey, the drawings reveal the domed structures, minarets, and beautiful Turkish rugs which are an integral part of this country’s ancient cities. Although the story is entertaining, it is the pictures that will truly enchant readers. Children will delight in seeing Nasrettin place a lamb chop, a “fish fried in vine leaves”, jellies, and other common Turkish food in his coat; and they are sure to be surprised when he pours a “whole bottle of wine inside” as well. In order to fully appreciate the artwork of The Hungry Coat, this story should be shared in a small group, so everyone has an equal opportunity to view Demi’s delightful drawings. For those who wish to know more about the central character of this tale, the author has included information about the real Nasrettin Hoca and invites readers to seek out additional tales of this popular hero.