As the narrator relates the tale of Hero and Heroine, the protagonists of a story set in Setting, a young girl draws away, providing the accompanying illustrations. The narrator however, is often unsatisfied with her artwork, and in a meta-fictional twist, directs her to improve this scene and that, until finally they end up with a good story. Or do they...?

Anyone familiar with the work of picture-book author Adam Lehrhaupt will recognize the blend of meta-fictional fun (think: Warning: Do Not Open This Book!) and instructional narrative (seen also in: Wordplay) to be found in This Is a Good Story. The entertaining tale is paired with colorful, fun artwork by French illustrator Magali Le Huche, while the author's afterword includes all the terms, from protagonist to climax, that a young would-be writer needs to get going. Recommended to anyone who enjoys more meta-fictional picture-books, and to those looking for children's tales which explains some of the basics, in terms of how to structure a story. ( )