The popular Kipling story about a fearless little mongoose who becomes part of an English family living in India can be newly understood because of Pinkney's forte in painting and drawing incomparable flora and fauna. His respect for artist Arthur Ransome is evident in the ways he's developed his trademark illustrations of flowers and wildlife. Pinkney's personal childhood attachment to this particular Kipling story is clear in his full-color artwork and his statement at the end of this picture book edition that is certain to become a collector's item. (Ages 4-9)