Book Review

This beautifully illustrated adaptation of a South African Folktale by John Steptoe is about two very different sisters. Manyara is beautiful but has a short temper, and little humility. However, her sister Nyasha is not only beautiful but considerate and kind to all she encounters. Their father Mufaro gets word that the King is looking for a wife, and they travel to the city to meet the king. Without giving too much away, the readers learn that showing others kindness and humility goes a long way. I highly recommend this book for elementary and middle school students who are studying folk tales and fairy tales. It is a great way to expose students to culturally diverse texts.