This exciting collection of traditional folktales from around the world introduces you to a host of interesting and unusual animals. Sixteen authentic fables, selected and translated by the author as they were told by tribal members of African and other cultures, range from the imaginative "Marriage of the wolf" to an entertaining account of "The crow with colored feathers." In "The rabbit who invented football" you'll meet an adventurous and funny character, and learn more about the origins of football while "Grouillette the lazy turtle " teaches a valuable lesson in the bad consequences of laziness. In "The raven"s black dress," our feathered friend is rewarded for his unwise choises. You'll also learn why a tortoise has a cracked shell and a jackal a spotted fur. in "Why the hedgedog rolls into a ball" you'll discover a truly unexpected reason while in The elephant and the turtle quareled " you will be surprised to learn the far-reaching effects of their dispute These 16 original time-honored folktales will delight readers of all ages.