The classic Norwegian folktale, The Three Billy Goats Gruff, gets a southwestern makeover in this picture-book retelling, as the three Armadilly sisters decide to attend a dance on the other side of the highway. Crossing underneath this busy thoroughfare by means of a culvert, the three armadillos encounter a hungry coyote, each one promising the predator a larger meal, if she waits for the next sister to pass by. Finally, when the eldest sister, Dilly Armadilly, hears the coyote's sad tale, she invites her to join her at the dance, and the three sisters give their would-be enemy a makeover.

Fractured fairy-tale fans will enjoy this revisionist take on a classic tale, as author Jackie Mims Hopkins alters not just the species and gender of the cast, but also changes the ending so that all concludes happily for Tallulah the coyote, just as it does for Lilly, Jilly and Dilly Armadilly. The artwork, done in acrylic, gouache, colored pencil and ink by S.G. Brooks, is colorful and amusing, utilizing a palette that matches the southwestern setting perfectly. I would recommend The Three Armadillies Tuff to anyone who enjoys fractured fairy-tales, or is looking for children's stories in which potential conflict is resolved peacefully for all. ( )

The three armadillo sisters decide to cross over the road to get something to eat. It would be too dangerous to walk across but Lily suggested that they go through the pipe under the road. They encounter a coyote and the first two through their sisters under the bus, saying that the others would be better to eat and make boot out of. Dilly, the third sister, shows the coyote some kindness and invites her to go out with them. They have a great meal from the Chomp and Stomp dumpster and dance all night. The narrator urges reader not to be alarmed if they hear rustling in their trash cans. It's just Tallula and the Armadilly Tuff sisters having a good time.
I loved the illustrations. They were so funny and went great with the story line. I especially liked the little creatures that were living in the pipe that were startled by the encounter between the sisters and Tallula, the coyote. I loved the message of "So, if you ever hear critters digging through garbage cans or a coyote howling, don't fret. It's just Tallula and the Armadilly Tuff sisters having a rip-roaring good time!" ( )

Fun take on the Three Billy Goats Gruff with a distinctive southwestern flavor. Great choice for reading aloud. ( )