It is nearly Christmas in a medieval German village, and the townspeople are ready to celebrate—until a rodent infestation interrupts their everyday lives. The mayor announces that anyone who can rid the town of the rats will be given one thousand gold coins. A stranger with a flute entices the rats beyond the town gates, but when he is unfairly denied his reward, he will give the locals their comeuppance. This familiar tale for readers up to 8 is given a spectacular new look here, courtesy of Thomas Baas' bold imagination and his rich palette of blues and reds.