Beat the Story-Drum, Pum-Pum

Reach for this book when you want to explore the rhythms of the oral tradition or help a child navigate social friction and the consequences of one's choices. These five Nigerian folktales use animal archetypes to explain why things are the way they are, from the physical traits of wildlife to the breakdown of friendships. Parents will find this collection particularly useful for discussing justice and jealousy in a way that feels ancient and resonant rather than preachy. The rhythmic prose and bold woodcut illustrations make it an excellent choice for a family read aloud that celebrates West African heritage and the universal complexities of human nature. It is ideal for elementary aged children who are beginning to ponder questions of fairness and the natural world.