Larousse dictionary of world folklore Book

The Little Red Hen is a simple moral tale about hard work and consequences, both good and bad. The little red hen has multiple tasks that she expects her friends, the goose, cat, and pig, will help her with, only to find that they will not. The little red hen completes the tasks herself and ultimately rejoices in the joys of a job well done, whereas her friends learn an important lesson about work ethic.

The work has several themes, including "if you want something done, you must do it yourself," and "you reap what you sow." The little red hen quickly learns that she cannot depend on her friends to help her with her chores, and therefore completes them herself. She and her friends learn that you reap what you sow when the little read hen enjoys a meal of freshly baked bread, while her friends, who provided no help in bringing forth the bread, are left empty-handed.

The book uses simple words and actions to teach the lessons of the theme. Repetition is used throughout the book, making for an entertaining and easy read. The little red hen consistently asks who will help her with a specific task, which is followed by a chorus of "not I's" from her friends. The little red hen then states that she will complete the task herself. The end is satisfying with the little red hen completing the task of eating her hard-earned bread herself.

The illustrations are not stunning, but are effective in conveying the message of the story. Their simple nature complements the simplicity of the work. The little red hen is shown with her little house and little chicks, working hard throughout the book, while her friends, the goose, cat, and pig, are shown lounging around, watching the hen work, and playing cards. Her friends quickly abandon their activities when bread is brought forth, and are literally illustrated as running to the food, only to be left empty-handed. The animals are illustrated in a manner similar to humans, with them wearing clothes, including top hats and bonnets, which make it easier to apply human morals, values, and emotions to them.

Due to its repetitive nature, the book would work well as a read aloud or an individual read. This work is recommended as a supplemental purchase as it feels dated, yet not classic.