The Lion’s Share is one of the most widely known animal fables throughout Somalia. It is told for entertainment but also for its wisdom about the misuse of power. At different times in history the folktale was retold in poems, songs, and other prose.
Africa
Materials from Africa
Owen & Mzee: The Language of Friendship
This is the true story of two great friends: a baby hippo named Owen, and a 130-year-old tortoise named Mzee live in Kenya. In December 2004, something astonishing happen: A frightened young hippo, separated from his family by the devastating tsunami in Southeast Asia, adopted an acient Aldabra tortoise as his mother. The old tortoise, for years a loner, accepted the baby hippo as his own. In spite of their many differences, Owen and Mzee are inseparable. What’s even more amazing is that the pair seem to have developed their own” language” of soft sounds and gestures, which continues to baffle wildlife experts.
The Scarab’s Secret
The chance meeting of Khepri, the small scarab beetle, and the powerful Pharaoh turns out to be a life altering experience for both and, ultimately, shapes the fate of the young leader. After the scarab uncovers a mysterious plot to murder the Pharaoh he is determined to put an end to it. The tiny scarab with a big heart helps the Pharaoh avert danger and saves the life of his precious ruler.
Middle East
This book made in-depth look at the peoples and laces of this diverse and fascinating region-from the cradle of civilization to the powerful countries that playa central role in today’s global economy and politics.
Orphan Of The Sun
Meryt-Re, a 13-year-old orphan living in Set-Maat, Egypt, during the building of the pharaohs’ tombs, tries to come to terms with her ability to see the truth in dreams while also attempting to determine who is trying to overthrow the village foreman.
The Legend Of Wondering King
Motivated by jealousy and the desire to receive acclaim as a great poet, Walid ibn Hujr, a prince of ancient Arabia, commits acts, which completely change the course of his life.
The Stone Light
While Merle and the flowing Queen travel to Hell to enlist Lord Light’s help in Venice’s fight against the invading Egyptian army, Serafin joins a resistance group that is led by an ancient sphinx.
Akimbo And The Crocodile Man
Akimbo goes to the rescue of zoologist who is injured on his father’s game preserve.
The Boy on the Beach
Reluctant to let the surf crash over him, Joe runs down the beach and has an adventure with an old boat. All of sudden with the dunes rising like big waves around him; he realizes he is lost and all alone. With the help of a lifeguard who comes to his rescue, all ends well.
The Color of Home
Hassan is newly arrived in America and he misses his home in Somalia. Hassan has learned just a few words of English, and his first day at school is very different from back home and lonely. Hassan discovers a way to communicate through art. Hassan tells his story. His teacher invites an interpreter to the classroom so that he can share the story of his past.