The story is done in rhyme, which makes it great to read aloud. Thecolorful illustrations are just delightful, each covering two pages, thus givinga powerful sense of movement to the story.--Childrens LiteratureJames Rice, known foremost as the illustrative master behind CajunNight Before Christmas , amuses and educates children all over thecountry through his works.One of his hallmarks has been the creation of recurring characters from hisChristmas stories to his cowboy legends. But among them all no characterattracts as much attention as the bayou alligator Gaston, whose numerousadventures introduce children to many aspects of the world around them.This time Gaston leaves the Louisiana bayous atop a Cajun steed named BlackLightning. Their destination is the world-famous Churchill Downs racetrack, homeof the Kentucky Derby. The first jewel of the Triple Crown, this race is seen bymillions either at the track or at home on television each year. Now through thelovable Gaston and his antics, children get to witness this American traditionas well.Gaston Goes to the Kentucky Derby teaches children about thegrand festival of the Derby in Louisville and the challenges all the riders faceto make it to the most esteemed horse race in the country. Peppered with humorand seasoned with Rice's colorful artwork, this is a delightful volume for youngand old and a must-have addition for anyone collecting Rice's books.James Rice is widely acclaimed as the South's leading author and illustratorof juvenile books. With more than one million copies of his books in print, heranks among the nation's top authors and illustrators. Rice completed his M.F.A.at Stephen F. Austin State University. He holds degrees in art from theUniversity of Texas and Howard Payne College and has taught art and music atboth the high school and college levels.