Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Indonesian Tales of Treasures and Brides

Author: Kuniko Sugiura

First line: Long, long ago there was a lake whose surface was as calm and smooth as the glass of a mirror.

Why you should read these books: Three Indonesian fairy tales with themes familiar to Western readers are compiled here, along with adorable line drawings in ink and watercolor. Each story stresses the importance of devotion, honor, and honesty, and while the endings aren't always happy, the messages are clear. Keep your promises, give freely and without pride, and always be kind to strangers.

Why you shouldn't read this book: You would never let your daughter marry a poor man.

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