How the Leopard Got His Claws

In the beginning, all the animals lived as friends.  The leopard, their king was strong but gentle and wise.  Only the dog had sharp teeth, and only the dog scoffed at the animals plan to build a common shelter for gathering out of the rain.  but when the dog was flooded out of his own cave, he attacked the leopard and took over as king.  It was only then that the leopard returned with a new roar, sharp claws, and shining teeth, life for the animals would never be the same.

In this riveting fable for young readers, Nigerian writer Chinua Achebe, author of Things Fall Apart, evokes themes of liberation and justice that echo his novels about post-colonial Africa.  Glowing with vibrant color, Mary GrandPre’s expressive and action-filled paintings bring this unforgettable tale dramatically to life.

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