Latin America is a place shaped by many influences—Indigenous traditions, Spanish and European cultures, and the heritage of Africa. For more than thirty years, Pleasant DeSpain has traveled through this vibrant region, exploring its landscapes, meeting its people, and collecting its stories. In this collection, he shares his carefully crafted retellings of folktales, myths, and legends from countries across Latin America, including Guatemala, Haiti, Ecuador, Peru, Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, Argentina, Venezuela, Uruguay, and Chile.
In Go To Sleep, Gecko!: A Balinese Folktale, a grumpy gecko complains to the village chief because fireflies are keeping him awake at night. As the wise Elephant investigates, Gecko discovers a hilarious chain of events showing how every animal and even the rain play a vital role in the jungle.
This engaging children's book follows the barber’s journey from poverty to prosperity as he turns a scary encounter into a clever solution for his family. Perfect for young readers, the story features vibrant illustrations and a timeless message about the power of resourcefulness.
Discover the magic of sound in The First Music, a whimsical African folktale where a group of jungle animals realizes their individual noises are actually beautiful music. This heartwarming story follows the animals as they join together in a rhythmic "jam session," teaching children that everyone has a unique song inside them.
Fat Cat: A Danish Folktale is a hilarious and colorful retelling of a classic story about a cat whose hunger knows no bounds. After eating everything from a washerwoman to a king and his elephant, the greedy cat meets his match when he finally swallows a clever little mouse.
Discover the magic of kindness in The Drum, a heartwarming Indian folktale about a poor boy who dreams of owning his own musical instrument. After his mother brings home a "magical" stick, the boy embarks on a journey where his selfless choices lead to unexpected rewards.
The Dancing Turtle is a vibrant children's picture book that retells a classic indigenous Brazilian folktale about a music-loving turtle captured by a hunter. To escape becoming turtle stew, the clever protagonist must use her wit and the help of the hunter's children to find her way back to the rainforest.
Conejito: A Folktale from Panama is a lively children's picture book that follows a small but clever rabbit on his school holiday adventure to visit his Auntie Monica. Along the way, the brave Conejito must use his quick wit to escape hungry predators like Mr. Fox, Mr. Tiger, and Mr. Lion.
The Clever Monkey is an entertaining children's picture book that retells a classic West African folktale about two greedy cats and a very smart monkey. When the cats find a delicious piece of cheese but can't agree on how to share it, the monkey steps in with a "helpful" plan that actually serves his own appetite.
When a mean lion begins playing pranks on the jungle animals, the resourceful monkey uses his cleverness to turn the tables and restore peace. This humorous children's story is perfect for teaching young readers about the power of intelligence over physical strength.
This funny and rhythmic story teaches kids that a change in perspective can make any home feel perfect. It is an ideal read-aloud book for teaching gratitude and the value of a happy, bustling household.
In Anansí Goes to Lunch, the greedy spider Anansí thinks he is clever when he accepts three different lunch invitations for the same day. He ties a rope around his waist and asks each friend to tug it when the food is ready, but a huge surprise awaits him when all three meals are served at once.
In Anansí and Turtle Go to Dinner, the clever but selfish spider Anansí tries to trick his friend Turtle to avoid sharing a delicious meal. However, Turtle soon comes up with a smart plan of his own to teach the trickster a funny lesson about being a good host.
In Anansí and the Tug O' War, the clever spider Anansí uses his quick wits to teach the giant Elephant and the massive Whale a lesson about respect. By challenging them both to a tug-of-war, he tricks the two large animals into pulling against each other while he watches the fun.
In Anansí and the Sky Kingdom, the world is dark and King Lion needs someone brave to bring back the light. After many animals fail, the clever spider Anansí uses his quick wits and trickster skills to visit the Sky Kingdom and save the world.
A tiny sandpiper and a giant whale start a funny but serious battle over who owns the beach. When they call in all their animal cousins to help, the birds and sea creatures soon realize that their fight is hurting the ocean they both share.
This beautifully illustrated Italian folktale teaches children that the best gifts are often the most helpful ones, rather than the most expensive. It is a funny and heartwarming story perfect for young readers who love adventure, history, and cats.
Follow three clever pigs as they try to outsmart a tricky red fox in the beautiful mountains. This award-winning book is perfect for children who love folktales and stories about being brave.
A group of farm animals dresses up for a fancy party at a neighbor's house. When dinner looks like just plain cornbread, a grumpy Rooster leaves early and misses a delicious surprise hidden inside.
