An adaptation of a folktale from southern Africa, in which a magical bird helps a kind young girl get back her people’s stolen cattle from Makucha the monster.
Song Bird
Age
Catalog sorted by age group
The Village That Vanished
In southeastern Africa, a young Yao girl and her mother find a way for their fellow villagers to escape approaching slave traders.
Jane Addams Honor Book (Awards)
Shadow Dance
When the crocodile she has rescued tricks her, little Salome must use some cunning of her own to escape becoming his next meal.
Bedtime Hullabaloo
One night in the silly savannah as some animals are preparing for bed, they are disturbed by a loud hubbub and set out to discover its source.
How Snake Got His Hiss: An Original Tale
Explains how long ago a self-absorbed snake became responsible for the hyena’s spots, the lion’s mane, the monkey’s chattering, the ostrich’s speed, and its own unique shape.
Rhinos for Lunch and Elephants for Supper!
A variety of animals try to help a hare get rid of the mysterious intruder who has taken over her house.
Imani in the Belly
Imani’s faith helps her save herself and her children from the belly of the King of Beasts.
Tales from the African Plains: 9
A collection of folktales from Kenya and other parts of Africa, including “The Crocodile, The Boy and The Kind Deed,” “Why The Moon Comes Out at Night,” and “Wacu and The Eagle.”
The King and the Tortoise
The king challenges the animals in his kingdom to prove their wisdom by making him a robe of smoke, but only the tortoise is able to satisfy him.
Kalahari Bushmen (Threatened Cultures)
Explores the culture of the Bushmen of the Kalahari Desert, examining their traditions, language, music, games and toys, family life, and hunting skills, and discusses various threats to their culture