This is a fun read-aloud for young children. The basic but beautiful blue and brown illustrations capture the simple life of the mountain people, making their lives look normal and happy, not underprivileged. Hetty and Hank's desire for shoes comes across as a wish for something extra, not an indication of poverty.

After all their hard work raising turnips, the children are far too generous with their crop as they travel down the mountain. Your children will feel Hetty and Hank's disappointment when they discover there is only one turnip left and rejoice with them in the surprise happy ending.