(3) K-3 Illustrated by Linda Saport. This retelling of an African and Asian folktale is set in modern-day Tanzania. Tatu heeds the advice of an old wise woman, and, using a Swahili song and a good dose of patience, she tames first a lion (for his whiskers) and then her unruly little brother. The tale is illustrated in full-bleed impressionistic, rainbow-hued pastels. Lyrics and a musical score for a Swahili song are included at the end of the book.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam

(3) K-3 Illustrated by E. B. Lewis. In this charming African story, Saruni saves money so he can buy a bicycle to help his mother carry vegetables and firewood to sell. When his father gives him a bicycle, he puts the money toward a cart to help his mother. Mollel's story and Lewis's watercolor paintings show Tanzanian customs, landscapes, clothing, and body language with wonderfully accurate detail.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Rosanne Litzinger. In this adaptation of a southern African tale, a magical song bird helps young Mariamu steal back her village's cattle from the cruel monster Makucha. The flat perspectives and rainbow palette of the watercolor and colored pencil illustrations are a pleasing match for this traditional tale. Music for the Tanzanian tune used in the story and a glossary of Swahili words are provided.

Reviewer: Pamela McCuen

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Donna Perrone. Salome rescues a stranded crocodile, who then threatens to eat her. However, with a pigeon's help, she tricks her way out of his clutches. In a note describing his "cross-cultural theme," Mollel places his tale in contemporary Tanzania and includes words and music for Salome's song. Though some of the illustrations are awkward, they feature vibrant colors and an appropriately wicked crocodile.

Reviewer: Martha Sibert