Why the Sky Is Far Away: A Nigerian Folktale

by Mary-Joan Gerson

Book Overview

This Nigerian folktale, with colorful illustrations by an award-winning artist, conveys a timely environmental message about waste and greed.

The sky was once so close to the Earth that people pulled down parts of it to eat. They never had to grow crops or cook--whenever they were hungry, they could just reach up and take a piece of sky. It sometimes tasted like stew, sometimes like corn...and it was always delicious But people became...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0316308749
• ISBN13: 9780316308748
• Release Date: April 1995
• Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
• Length: 32 Pages
• Weight: 0.36 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.1" x 8.9" x 9.2"
• Age Range: 4 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3

Customer Reviews

Another tale to answer "Why"?

I used this story as part of a presentation on Nigeria to elementary school classes from K to 5th graders. The text and pictures pair up to tell this wonderful folk tale that has been handed down through the years but whose message remains important for our children to learn today: responsibility belongs to everyone when it comes to wisely using our resources.

Absolutely Beautiful Illustrations

The story, part of ancient Nigerian lore, is an intriguing one, providing insight into non-Western folktales. However, it is the illustrations that truly make this book. They are stunning in their vibrancy. My toddler son really enjoys this book and I love reading it to him.

Gorgeous Illustrations

Buy this book for the illustrations. They're spectacular. You'll want to frame each one and hang them on your wall. Of just leave it on your coffee table for people to ohh and ahh over. For anyone who can't afford an original Carla Golembe -- she's a famous artist who exhibts in Mass. and Maryland -- this is the next best thing.

good for kids without their realizing it

I find myself struggling to get my daughter to eat foods good for her body and read books good for her mind. This book accomplished what I wanted -- it teaches about a different culture, taking care of the environment, and how greed leads to punishment. It did this with an entertaining story and beautiful pictures, fully deserving it's prominent place on my daughter's bookshelf.

Great folk tale for kids of all ages!!

Why the sky is far away is a great story that teaches important ecological and moral values in a fun way. The illustrations are amazing and the story is delightful.