A wonderful collection of eight desert tales from Somalia. Wicked stepmothers, gold, snakes, why dogs are a man's best friend - it's all here in these beautifully retold stories. - Angels and Urchins
If you thought Somalia had nothing to offer the world but piracy, you'll soon change your mind if you sample this wonderful selection from the country's colourful and unusual stories. The author collected them herself in the field from local oral tradition and has retold them in a splendidly accessible and entertaining style. Great for any child who enjoys fairy tales. - Northern Echo
Told in a graceful light-hearted style, this unusual collection is perfect for reading aloud in the classroom. - Junior Education
A wonderful collection of eight desert tales from Somalia. Beautifully re-told stories. - Angels and Urchins
The stories are perfectly complemented by Shelley Fowles light-hearted illustrations. These would be lovely short tales for bed-time, or at the end of a busy school day. - www.writeaway.org.uk
As well as being a delight in themselves, these tales will serve to emphasise to young readers that however different we may look and however differently we may live, nevertheless we share a common existence in which we all face the same basic uncertainties and fears. As ever, the underdog triumphs, and considerable humour (well expressed in Shelley Fowles' illustrations) leavens the magic and underscores the moral of each story. This is an immensely enjoyable and valuable collection for adult and child readers alike. - Ibby Link
Provides an excellent introduction to the tradition of oral storytelling. Highly reminiscent of the classic Aesop's Fables, many of the tales feature anthropomorphic animals abd their relationship with man. These short, engaging stories are perfect to read aloud in class and raise plenty of thought-provoking topics for discussion. Expertly illustrated by Shelley Fowles, the evocative black and white drawings add further appeal to children reading by themselves. - Books for Keeps
Lively, fresh and entertaining, filled with wisdom and wit. While the stories' landscapes belong to the country, the characters and predicaments are, as with all traditional tales, universally recognisable. - Carousel
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