Author: Book Importer

Book Importer

Nelson Mandela

In this picture book biography, award-winning author and illustrator Kadir Nelson tells the story of Mandela, a global icon, in poignant free verse and glorious illustrations. It is the story of a young boy’s determination to change South Africa, and of the struggles of a man who eventually became the president of his country by believing in equality for all people, no matter the color of their skin. Readers will be inspired by Mandela’s triumph and his lifelong quest to create a more just world.

An author’s note at the back retells the story of Mandela’s fight against apartheid in simple prose, and takes the story further, including Mandela’s Nobel Peace Prize. A short bibliography lists additional sources for readers who want to find out more.

When Animals Were People/Cuando Los Animales Eran Personas: A Huichol Indian Tale/Un Cuento Huichol

A traditional Huichol folktale of the magical time when animals had human characteristics and were first learning from the Spirits of Nature and each other to find their true homes and unique wisdom.

Climbing Rosa

Outside the King’s palace grows an enormous tree, its top hidden in the clouds. It’s so tall that no one has ever climbed to the top or collected any of its seeds. Rosa’s stepmother and stepsister Irma always call her a monkey because she can climb anything from drainpipes to trees. So when the King proclaims that whoever brings down seeds from the tree will marry his son, strong and sprightly Rosa decides to make her stepfamily regret their words. Shelley Fowles’s enchanting, faux-naïf illustrations highlight this gloriously funny adaptation of a traditional Hungarian folktale.

Night Sounds

When the moon comes up over the mountains, all the animals in the rain forest go to sleep. But, what’s that noise? And how can the animals make it stop? “Wuaaah, wuaaah, wuaaah.” The noise goes on and on. Cuddled up inside an abandoned box, someone is sobbing, and one by one, the animals try to comfort the little one. But with each offering — of a blanket, some fresh water, mango, and so on — the small creature settles only briefly before wailing once again. Finally, Tiger disappears and returns with the little creature’s mother. Peace is restored, until . . . ”Wuu, wuu, wuuuuuu,” cries a child in a nearby village. This time, it is the little creature who solves the problem by yelling out, “That child must have a kiss! Then we can all go back to sleep.”

The Nightwood

Based on the Celtic folktale of Tamlynne, The Nightwood tells the story of the young daughter of the Earl of March, who is enticed into the nearby wood by the haunting strains of Elfin music. Inside the mysterious forest, Elaine meets Tamlynne, an enchanted young knight in the court of the Elfin Queen. Elaine and Tamlynne fall in love, but in order for Tamlynne to escape the elves, Elaine must pay a terrible price. In the end, mortal love proves stronger than the power of the Elfin Queen and the two lovers are set free.

The World’s Greatest Elephant

Born on the same day in the same German town, Bram and his elephant, Modoc, grew up side by side. Their circus act brought them wide fame, but their incredible bond would also lead to a series of adventures with danger at every turn.

Zero Kisses For Me

“Zero kisses for me” is a declaration of independence from a youngster who has a family of fond, affectionate relatives. Sometimes kisses are sticky or perfume-y or just plain yucky, and, besides, they’re for babies. They’re not dignified for someone who’s growing up.

Our small hero decides that the kissing ban goes for goodnight kisses too. That is, of course, until it’s bedtime and the monsters appear. And everyone knows that the best defense against the monsters is a goodnight kiss from Mom. The ban’s over, and he and his understanding mother come to the conclusion that nobody gets too old for kisses after all.

Good Night

“Good night, my jewel . . . Good night, my shrimp!” When it’s time for baby to close her eyes and go to sleep, say good night with this winsome board book, published first in France as Bonne Nuit! Whether you’re reading to your bug, your treasure, or your dumpling, this book’s affectionate tone, luscious colors, endearing round-headed babies, and die-cut moon are just right for sending her off to dreamland.