How the Animals Got Their Colors: Animal Myths from Around the World
Grade 2-5-- Nine animal stories from around the world grace this collection. Although the tales may have originated in North America, China, or India, all explain or account for an animal's unusual markings, from the yellow eyes of the coyote, to the stripes of the tiger and the peacock's bright feathers. The stories are clearly and casually told; they are humorous, righteous, and revealing. A glossary provides information on their origins and includes a short summary about each animal. The illustrations interpret the action with bold, abstract, cut-out paper designs that burst from the pages with bright aggressive color and the rhythm of a folk dance. Their style unifies the collection while also providing a visual separation between the tales by using different background colors for each animal. With its simplicity and eye-catching design, this collection will be enjoyed by children who are interested in wild animals, other cultures, and creation myths. --Martha Topol, Northwestern Michigan College, Traverse City, MICopyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.