Fables and folktales are our ancient way of trying to pass along lessons -- disguised as enjoyable stories -- to young and old alike. But if your child is anything like mine, he can spot a morality tale a mile away. For instance, about a year ago I checked out a cartoon-style book about manners for my three year old, and he wouldn't even let me crack the cover. Somehow he had a sixth sense about all those pleases and thank-yous tucked inside. Here, however, are some folktales that are not only entertaining, but have the added mystique of featuring exotic, faraway lands, and, in some cases, a second language.
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In this retelling of the Mouse Bride tale, a pair of mice parents search for the greatest and most powerful marriage partner for their beloved daughter. Papa mouse seeks out the mighty forces of the sun, a cloud, the wind and a mountain, only to discover that mice are as powerful as anything in the world. The text is beautifully spare, making it enjoyable for the very young as well as older readers. The paper, pastel and watercolor collages are filled with golden-brown earth tones, reminiscent of elegant Chinese murals. In marvelous contrast, the black cut-out mice are delightfully animated, full of personality and perseverance, yet perfectly suited to their stately landscape.
Young has the right background for such an ambitious project. Born in China, he studied there through high school, spending his time drawing and learning calligraphy from a Chinese master. He is famous for his folktales, many set in China, including his Caldecott-winning "Lon Po Po: A Red Riding Hood Story." "Mouse Match" is a stunning creation that deserves a close look.
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The Cuban-born author says she hopes the dual-language format will help awaken children's interest in acquiring a second language, and certainly it should arouse their curiosity.
Artist Felipe Davalos, originally from Mexico, has created a colorful, exotic landscape full of pyramids, cacti and ancient Mexican sculpture and design. His illustrations beautifully capture the glowing changes as the sun shines once more. "The Lizard and the Sun" is a sumptuous introduction to the land of the Aztec and Maya.
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Illustrator JoAnn E. Kitchel's bright jungle scenes are appealing; her style was influenced by several years spent teaching art as a Peace Corps volunteer in the West Indies.
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French's illustrations feature slightly muted, bright colors in geometric designs based on ancient Indian pottery -- a real Western treat.
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Antonio Hernandez Madrigal grew up in Mexico and learned these stories from his great-grandmother, a healer and storyteller. He has crafted his heritage into clear, compelling language that reminds me of the excitement I felt as a fifth grader studying the alluring world of ancient Mexico.
Rounding out the package are a glossary and brief historical discussions after each story, as well as the wonderful treat of scattered illustrations and borders by master-illustrator Tomie dePaola. DePaola is famed for his folktales, such as "Strega Nona," as well as his retelling of biblical tales, and, as always, his illustrations of various legends are the perfect complement to the text.
Reading books like these makes me feel as though I've traveled the world, doing everything from exploring Mayan ruins to taking a stroll along the Great Wall. Multiculturalism is certainly an overused word, but at its best, its pursuit can make kids feel sky-high.
Even, dare I say, virtuous.
Alice Cary is a frequent contributor to BookPage. She is a freelance writer in Groton, Massachusetts.
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