The Fool of the World and the Flying Ship: A Russian Tale
By: Arthur Ransome
Illustrated by: Uri Shulevitz
Medal Winner
Reviewed by: Deanna Knoll
Recommended age: Ages 4-10
Also read and recommended by: Sherry Early
The extravagant illustrations invoke an Old Russia feel in this wonderful folktale. My boys and I have read this one over and over again, laughing each time at the character's ridiculous companions. Uri Shulevitz is a wonderful storyteller and that ability is highlighted in this delightful picture book. Combining these two individuals as author/illustrator makes for an amazing book.
Why the Sun and the Moon Live in the Sky: An African Folktale
By: Elphinstone Dayrell
Illustrated by: Blair Lent
Honor
NOT REVIEWED
"Many years ago the sun and water were great friends, and both lived on the earth together."
The origin of the world and its natural elements has become a matter of much new theorizing in scientific circles. But primitive people from ages past have already created some of the most highly imaginative and entertaining stories to explain the world about them.
Originally adapted by Elphinstone Dayrell from an old African folktale, this is the simple tale of the Sun, the Moon, and the Water and how they came to be where they are.
Blair Lent, whose distinctive style has earned him much praise for THE WAVE and BABA YAGA, now presents this timeless tale with an original touch, personalizing his subjects while still keeping their essential characters. His art easily joins the spirit of the telling and through his earth color and primitive motif he captures a true feeling of Africa.
From the dust jacket
