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The Hunterman and the Crocodile
A hunterman and a crocodile take turns being captive and captor in a humorous folktale that teaches the importance of living in harmony with nature and is illustrated with ceramic-tile paintings.
32 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 1997
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
November 15, 2014
The Hunterman and the Crocodile is the humorous telling of Bamba the crocodile, and Donso, the humterman. One day, Bamba and his family travel far from the comfort of the river and are discovered tired and weak by Donso. Bamba asks Donso to return him and his family to the river and promises not to bite him upon doing so. However, as Donso agrees and goes to release Bamba into the river, the crocodile complains he is very hungry and decides he should eat Donso. As the two argue over a broken promise, many other animals begin to emerge on the riverbank to offer their advice on who is right and what should be done. The animals are clearly in favor of eating the hunterman as humans have been taking advantage of the animals for many years. In a twist of fate, the hunterman returns to his village prepared to eat Bamba and his family. However, upon arriving, Donso realizes that he and the crocodile family must work together in order for each of them to escape their current predicaments. The lesson taught in the telling of this book is invaluable.
The hunterman and the crocodile fits the genre of traditional literature by representing the generational telling of the importance of living in harmony with nature. The message the story portrays is that humans must value themselves as equal to those around them-not above-so they can work together to reap the benefits of peace and harmony. This story is told with references to West African culture and the values of the people occupying its land.
The obvious lesson the Hunterman and the Crocodile offers to elementary age students is that of living harmoniously and peacefully with nature. However, I believe the teaching of this story could be expanded to incorporate the harmony that must exist between humans and other humans as well, regardless of culture, race, ethnicity, or gender. The value of these lessons is easily taught through the descriptive text and illustrations of this book and can be applied to all learners willing to listen with an open mind.
The hunterman and the crocodile fits the genre of traditional literature by representing the generational telling of the importance of living in harmony with nature. The message the story portrays is that humans must value themselves as equal to those around them-not above-so they can work together to reap the benefits of peace and harmony. This story is told with references to West African culture and the values of the people occupying its land.
The obvious lesson the Hunterman and the Crocodile offers to elementary age students is that of living harmoniously and peacefully with nature. However, I believe the teaching of this story could be expanded to incorporate the harmony that must exist between humans and other humans as well, regardless of culture, race, ethnicity, or gender. The value of these lessons is easily taught through the descriptive text and illustrations of this book and can be applied to all learners willing to listen with an open mind.
January 27, 2010
I love traditional folktales and the painted woodcarving illustrations make this one a new favorite. Most of us know the story of the gingerbread man who gets snapped up by the fox when he rides across the river on his nose; many know the tale of the boy who carries rattlesnake up the mountain in his pocket only to learn that he needs to trust in a rattlesnake's nature, not in his words. This version about the nature of animals and the nature of man takes several twists. It would be a fabulous book to use with children to learn the strategies of predicting, but can also demonstrate the difference between prediction and inference. The fact that this book is entertaining, erudite, and educational puts it on my "best books" list for future use.
November 21, 2020
This folktale from Mali is about a hunter who encounters a family of crocodiles who have strayed far from the river. The crocodiles convince him to return him to the river and then want to eat him. None of the other animals except finally the rabbit will save him because he has not treated them well. In the end, the crocodiles help him save his wife and he learns to live in harmony with all.
This tale of clever animals is a good mentor text for a writing unit on adapting folktales for 3rd through 5th grade. Classroom library book for 1t through 5th grade.
This tale of clever animals is a good mentor text for a writing unit on adapting folktales for 3rd through 5th grade. Classroom library book for 1t through 5th grade.
February 3, 2018
"The Hunterman and the Crocodile" is a folktale written and illustrated by West African author, Baba Wagué Diakité. This folktale tells the story of a crocodile and a hunter who take turns being the captive and captor. As the story unfolds, readers learn the importance of living in harmony with nature and animals. This book was awarded the Coretta Scott King Award for Illustrators and has been reviewed by Publisher's Weekly, School Library Journal, Children's Literature and Kirkus Review.
This would be a great book to use to introduce students to the folktale genre. I think that this story would be appropriate for students in second through first grade because there are some vocabulary words in the story that will be difficult for younger students to understand. Additionally, this would also be a great book to read as a read aloud because I think that students will enjoy hearing the onomatopoeias as well as the dialogue between the animal characters and the hunter. This book is also beautifully illustrated using hand painted ceramics created by the author. When reading this book to my students, I would draw their attention to the illustrations and ask them what information they give us about setting.
This would be a great book to use to introduce students to the folktale genre. I think that this story would be appropriate for students in second through first grade because there are some vocabulary words in the story that will be difficult for younger students to understand. Additionally, this would also be a great book to read as a read aloud because I think that students will enjoy hearing the onomatopoeias as well as the dialogue between the animal characters and the hunter. This book is also beautifully illustrated using hand painted ceramics created by the author. When reading this book to my students, I would draw their attention to the illustrations and ask them what information they give us about setting.
January 26, 2010
The West African Folktale tells the story of how man learned to live in harmony with nature after an incident with a crocodile. This is one of those folktales that are fun to hear and would capture the attention of older students who still enjoy picture books.
July 26, 2017
Category/Genre: ICDL/Traditional Literature/Fable/Picture Book
Copyright Date: 1997
Estimate of age level of interest: K-3rd Grade
Estimate of reading level: Grade 3
Brief description: A traditional West African fable is retold in which Donso, the hunterman, learns that he is part of the cycle of life from the plants and animals in his environment.
Two characteristics of picture traditional literature/fables that appear in this book:
1. Fables stories in which components of the natural world (plants/animals/sometimes the elements) taking on human voices to deliver a lesson. True to form, animals and a tree in The Hunterman and the Crocodile refuse to help a man in trouble, each explaining their refusal by remembering how humans have wronged their kind in the past.
2. A second characteristic of fables is that they are brief, simple stories that deliver a relatively complex moral message. In 14 short pages of text, this tale delivers the message that humans are part of the cycle of life and must beware not to treat the animals and plants as though they are lesser than them.
In what ways and how well does the book as a whole serve its intended audience?:
The colorful ceramic tile prints that make up the illustrations of this picture book bring the story alive and give the story a sense of place in the West African world. As a folktale, the message is clear and direct with entertaining dialog that will speak to young children's drive for justice in terms that are black and white. The line between good and bad is clearly drawn which makes for a clear delivery of the moral lesson to the intended audience.
Awards:
None found.
Published reviews from professional sources:
None found.
Copyright Date: 1997
Estimate of age level of interest: K-3rd Grade
Estimate of reading level: Grade 3
Brief description: A traditional West African fable is retold in which Donso, the hunterman, learns that he is part of the cycle of life from the plants and animals in his environment.
Two characteristics of picture traditional literature/fables that appear in this book:
1. Fables stories in which components of the natural world (plants/animals/sometimes the elements) taking on human voices to deliver a lesson. True to form, animals and a tree in The Hunterman and the Crocodile refuse to help a man in trouble, each explaining their refusal by remembering how humans have wronged their kind in the past.
2. A second characteristic of fables is that they are brief, simple stories that deliver a relatively complex moral message. In 14 short pages of text, this tale delivers the message that humans are part of the cycle of life and must beware not to treat the animals and plants as though they are lesser than them.
In what ways and how well does the book as a whole serve its intended audience?:
The colorful ceramic tile prints that make up the illustrations of this picture book bring the story alive and give the story a sense of place in the West African world. As a folktale, the message is clear and direct with entertaining dialog that will speak to young children's drive for justice in terms that are black and white. The line between good and bad is clearly drawn which makes for a clear delivery of the moral lesson to the intended audience.
Awards:
None found.
Published reviews from professional sources:
None found.
July 8, 2017
Genre - Traditional literature - picture book on the International Children's Digital Library
Copyright - 1998
Age level of interest - 4-8
Reading level - 2nd grade -on
Brief Description:
A West African folk tale with gorgeous illustrations is about Donso, the hunterman, and three tricky crocodiles. Several animals and a mango tree refuse to help. This short picture book teaches lessons on trust, harmony and humans place in the world.
Two Characteristics of Traditional Literature:
Language - This story presents itself in the oral tradition with "sound effects" from the critters and a mango tree which is typical of African folktales. It is simple and straightforward with repetition yet lively enough to engage any age.
Illustrations - Beautiful illustrations and borders have an African folk art style. The colors are dark and rich settling the reader in for a good griot tale.
Serving it's Audience:
This story is clearly meant to be told and the art to be shared. It would make for a great read aloud for younger grades. Finding the author on Skype or another West African to read this book aloud would be fantastic. It would also be great to re-enact this story into a play with "sound effects" and African cloth as a backdrop.
Awards and Reviews:
No awards found.
Kirkus Review - December 5, 1996.
Copyright - 1998
Age level of interest - 4-8
Reading level - 2nd grade -on
Brief Description:
A West African folk tale with gorgeous illustrations is about Donso, the hunterman, and three tricky crocodiles. Several animals and a mango tree refuse to help. This short picture book teaches lessons on trust, harmony and humans place in the world.
Two Characteristics of Traditional Literature:
Language - This story presents itself in the oral tradition with "sound effects" from the critters and a mango tree which is typical of African folktales. It is simple and straightforward with repetition yet lively enough to engage any age.
Illustrations - Beautiful illustrations and borders have an African folk art style. The colors are dark and rich settling the reader in for a good griot tale.
Serving it's Audience:
This story is clearly meant to be told and the art to be shared. It would make for a great read aloud for younger grades. Finding the author on Skype or another West African to read this book aloud would be fantastic. It would also be great to re-enact this story into a play with "sound effects" and African cloth as a backdrop.
Awards and Reviews:
No awards found.
Kirkus Review - December 5, 1996.
October 15, 2022
I came across this book while searching the International Children's Digital Library. This treasure of a book was written and illustrated by Baba Wague Diakite and won the Coretta Scott King award in 1998. Donso, the "huntsman" is our main character in this retelling of a famous story many readers will recognize. Donso finds himself in danger of being eaten by Bamba the crocodile - actually four crocodiles are after him! When Donso asks the natural world around him to come to his aide, they refuse. Man has not been good to the animals or nature. In the end, Donso learns an important lesson and commits to living in harmony with all living things. I think what I loved the best about this book was the engaging illustrations. Diakite uses ceramic tile paintings to bring this story alive. Children will not be accustomed to seeing this type of illustration. There is nothing "western" about this artwork and I found myself staring at every page. Another delightful feature of this book is the sing-song language used. For example the cow's movements make a "dingi, donga" sound and the horse goes "ke-te-ba." I would choral read this book with my students, and they would really enjoy repeating the language. I felt this international book that felt really authentic to African culture. I would use this book with all ages.
February 25, 2016
Title: The Hunterman and the Crocodile
Author: Baba Wagué Diakité
Genre: Non-European Folktale
Theme(s): Humans, Nature, and Harmony
Opening line/sentence: There was a time when Bamba the Crocodile took a pilgrimage to Mecca with his family.
Brief Book Summary: Bamba the crocodile and his family were taking a trip to Mecca when they ran out of food and grew tired. A hunterman approached the crocodiles and they begged him to help them return to the river, promising him no harm. The hunterman took them back to the river only to find himself in their jaws; no animal or tree would come to his rescue due to how humans act on earth. The crocodiles eventually release him; the huterman catches the crocodiles and later releasing them in exchange for their tears to save his wife.
Professional Recommendation/Review #1: Kathleen Kellett-Betsos (CM Magazine, June 6, 1997 (Vol. III, No. 20))
Right and wrong is at the heart of this West African folktale retold by Baba Wagué Diakieé. Drawing on his heritage of tales told by his grandmother and others in his community from Mali, Diakiteé uses the folktale to teach about the responsibility of human beings toward nature. Donso the hunterman agrees to help a family of crocodiles exhausted by their pilgrimage to Mecca. After he has carried the four crocodiles stacked on his head back to their place in the river, Bamba the Crocodile refuses to let him go. As various animals come down to the river, Donso entreats them to help him, but they refuse, remembering all too well the exploitive nature of man who, for example, takes the hen's eggs - its children - then kills the hen at feast-time. Even the mango tree exclaims: "Mook! Let Bamba eat him!" (p17). Only the rabbit, charming in his guile, challenges them to show him how Donso could have carried all the crocodiles and so allows the hunter to take the crocodiles prisoner. But then, needing the crocodiles' tears to cure his ailing wife, Donso agrees to let them go if they will give him their tears of joy at being released. He thus breaks the cycle of taking from nature without giving in return: "Donso never forgot the lessons he learned from the cow, the horse, the chicken, the mango tree, and the rabbit. From that time forward he has reminded people of the importance of living in harmony with nature and the necessity of placing Man among - not above - all living things." (p27) If the tale sounds familiar, this is because it has many, many versions and appears in both fables of Aesop and the Uncle Remus tales, as Diakiteé notes, even providing a short bibliography. The "Author's note" is especially engaging as it gives Diakiteé the opportunity to talk about his culture, his language and his view of storytelling. While the author explains the significance of his name in the Bambaran language and how to say hello (Awnitheé, pronounced "OW- nee-chay), he does not provide the meaning of the animals' interjection: "Mook!" The illustrations are also by the author, a noted artist, who has painted the simple but colourful pictures on ceramic tiles. The book blurb indicates that Diakiteé is a well-known as a storyteller in schools around the northwestern United States. Fortunately, with his first book, he is now reaching an even wider audience. Highly Recommended. Rating: *** /4. Preschool - grade 2. 1997, Scholastic Press, 32 pp. hardcover, $21.99. Ages 3 to 7.
(PUBLISHER: Scholastic (New York:), PUBLISHED: c1997.)
Professional Recommendation/Review #2: Publishers Weekly (Publishers Weekly)
Stunning primitivist paintings make a graceful transition from the ceramic tiles on which they originally appeared to this memorable debut book by an artist and storyteller born and raised in West Africa. Featuring bold, black-and-white animal characters set against earth-toned backgrounds and framed by patterned borders, the paintings give a distinctive spin to this folktale about a contest of wits between a hunter and a crocodile. Donso agrees to return Bamba and family to their river home if the crocodile clan promises not to bite him. Yet once there, the crafty creatures decide they're too hungry to let the hunter go. One by one, animal passers-by refuse to rescue Donso, explaining how Man has exploited their species, taking much from them and giving back nothing. A clever compromise brings the narrative to a satisfying close. With its many animal voices, occasional onomatopoeia and clearly delivered message about the importance of respecting nature, this is a natural choice for a read-aloud, likely to entertain as it teaches. Ages 4-7. (Mar.)
(PUBLISHER: Scholastic (New York:), PUBLISHED: c1997.)
Response to Two Professional Reviews: Both reviews discuss the illustrations in the book that are actually paintings on ceramic tiles. The illustrations are simple yet colorful with patterned borders. The reviews also note a brief summary of the text and the lesson that the story teaches. One review discusses Diakité’s author note at the end where he talks about his culture and language, a nice addition to the story.
Evaluation of Literary Elements: The small amount of text per page and the full page illustrations throughout this book increase its readability for young children. Readers can make predications by using the relatively simple plot and the few repetitive phrases that appear throughout the text. The West African setting is prominent in the text, but the illustrations really give readers a look into the African culture.
Consideration of Instructional Application: The humans living in harmony with nature theme of this text could tie into a critical literacy project. As a class, the students could think of ways that they misuse or harm nature. Once a topic has been reached, students could research the topic and come up with a way to display their information. When the students finish displaying their information, the could complete an action that will reduce the misuse or harm to nature that they are advocating against.
Author: Baba Wagué Diakité
Genre: Non-European Folktale
Theme(s): Humans, Nature, and Harmony
Opening line/sentence: There was a time when Bamba the Crocodile took a pilgrimage to Mecca with his family.
Brief Book Summary: Bamba the crocodile and his family were taking a trip to Mecca when they ran out of food and grew tired. A hunterman approached the crocodiles and they begged him to help them return to the river, promising him no harm. The hunterman took them back to the river only to find himself in their jaws; no animal or tree would come to his rescue due to how humans act on earth. The crocodiles eventually release him; the huterman catches the crocodiles and later releasing them in exchange for their tears to save his wife.
Professional Recommendation/Review #1: Kathleen Kellett-Betsos (CM Magazine, June 6, 1997 (Vol. III, No. 20))
Right and wrong is at the heart of this West African folktale retold by Baba Wagué Diakieé. Drawing on his heritage of tales told by his grandmother and others in his community from Mali, Diakiteé uses the folktale to teach about the responsibility of human beings toward nature. Donso the hunterman agrees to help a family of crocodiles exhausted by their pilgrimage to Mecca. After he has carried the four crocodiles stacked on his head back to their place in the river, Bamba the Crocodile refuses to let him go. As various animals come down to the river, Donso entreats them to help him, but they refuse, remembering all too well the exploitive nature of man who, for example, takes the hen's eggs - its children - then kills the hen at feast-time. Even the mango tree exclaims: "Mook! Let Bamba eat him!" (p17). Only the rabbit, charming in his guile, challenges them to show him how Donso could have carried all the crocodiles and so allows the hunter to take the crocodiles prisoner. But then, needing the crocodiles' tears to cure his ailing wife, Donso agrees to let them go if they will give him their tears of joy at being released. He thus breaks the cycle of taking from nature without giving in return: "Donso never forgot the lessons he learned from the cow, the horse, the chicken, the mango tree, and the rabbit. From that time forward he has reminded people of the importance of living in harmony with nature and the necessity of placing Man among - not above - all living things." (p27) If the tale sounds familiar, this is because it has many, many versions and appears in both fables of Aesop and the Uncle Remus tales, as Diakiteé notes, even providing a short bibliography. The "Author's note" is especially engaging as it gives Diakiteé the opportunity to talk about his culture, his language and his view of storytelling. While the author explains the significance of his name in the Bambaran language and how to say hello (Awnitheé, pronounced "OW- nee-chay), he does not provide the meaning of the animals' interjection: "Mook!" The illustrations are also by the author, a noted artist, who has painted the simple but colourful pictures on ceramic tiles. The book blurb indicates that Diakiteé is a well-known as a storyteller in schools around the northwestern United States. Fortunately, with his first book, he is now reaching an even wider audience. Highly Recommended. Rating: *** /4. Preschool - grade 2. 1997, Scholastic Press, 32 pp. hardcover, $21.99. Ages 3 to 7.
(PUBLISHER: Scholastic (New York:), PUBLISHED: c1997.)
Professional Recommendation/Review #2: Publishers Weekly (Publishers Weekly)
Stunning primitivist paintings make a graceful transition from the ceramic tiles on which they originally appeared to this memorable debut book by an artist and storyteller born and raised in West Africa. Featuring bold, black-and-white animal characters set against earth-toned backgrounds and framed by patterned borders, the paintings give a distinctive spin to this folktale about a contest of wits between a hunter and a crocodile. Donso agrees to return Bamba and family to their river home if the crocodile clan promises not to bite him. Yet once there, the crafty creatures decide they're too hungry to let the hunter go. One by one, animal passers-by refuse to rescue Donso, explaining how Man has exploited their species, taking much from them and giving back nothing. A clever compromise brings the narrative to a satisfying close. With its many animal voices, occasional onomatopoeia and clearly delivered message about the importance of respecting nature, this is a natural choice for a read-aloud, likely to entertain as it teaches. Ages 4-7. (Mar.)
(PUBLISHER: Scholastic (New York:), PUBLISHED: c1997.)
Response to Two Professional Reviews: Both reviews discuss the illustrations in the book that are actually paintings on ceramic tiles. The illustrations are simple yet colorful with patterned borders. The reviews also note a brief summary of the text and the lesson that the story teaches. One review discusses Diakité’s author note at the end where he talks about his culture and language, a nice addition to the story.
Evaluation of Literary Elements: The small amount of text per page and the full page illustrations throughout this book increase its readability for young children. Readers can make predications by using the relatively simple plot and the few repetitive phrases that appear throughout the text. The West African setting is prominent in the text, but the illustrations really give readers a look into the African culture.
Consideration of Instructional Application: The humans living in harmony with nature theme of this text could tie into a critical literacy project. As a class, the students could think of ways that they misuse or harm nature. Once a topic has been reached, students could research the topic and come up with a way to display their information. When the students finish displaying their information, the could complete an action that will reduce the misuse or harm to nature that they are advocating against.
April 23, 2018
"The Hunterman And The Crocodile" is a folktale that has been passed down for generations and its message taken the form of many stories. I read this book as an e-text. It is about a hunter's misfortune when faced with danger from a group of crocodiles. His past actions and the actions of his fellow men have caused the animals who could help him in his time of need to turn away. This folktale shows the importance of living harmoniously with animals and nature.
I think reading this book to my class will give the students an appreciation of virtues that span across cultures and time. It could be a great introduction to other fables and folktales that give the same message of living in harmony with nature. Perhaps it could be paired with "The Giving Tree" and aid in discussion of sustainability and current events that have to do with our environment.
I think reading this book to my class will give the students an appreciation of virtues that span across cultures and time. It could be a great introduction to other fables and folktales that give the same message of living in harmony with nature. Perhaps it could be paired with "The Giving Tree" and aid in discussion of sustainability and current events that have to do with our environment.
Read
October 9, 2017I am so charmed by crocodiles going on pilgrimage to Mecca.
This story is in the same vein as Tololwa M. Mollel's Shadow Dance , but as I was reading the litany of condemnations of Man in this one, I was thinking, "They're not wrong," so I was pleasantly surprised that the human protagonist in this one actually takes those criticism to heart at the end.
This story is in the same vein as Tololwa M. Mollel's Shadow Dance , but as I was reading the litany of condemnations of Man in this one, I was thinking, "They're not wrong," so I was pleasantly surprised that the human protagonist in this one actually takes those criticism to heart at the end.
September 4, 2019
This is a fantastic folktale coming from Western Africa. A cow, horse, mango tree, chicken, and rabbit all explain to Donso how man exploits creatures. Donso "is reminded of the importance of living in harmony with nature and the necessity of placing man among - and not above - all living things. This book is perfect for students with an interest in nature, animals, different culture, folktales, and great illustrations!
October 21, 2022
This is a very good book. The moral of the story is good. We cant expect people to coming running to save us when all we have done is harm them. The illustrations are very clear and describe the words perfectly. I will defiantly have this book in my classroom and recommend that every student reads this book at least once. I hope everyone would learn something from it wether it's being kind to all or being wise. I think my students would love it.
February 23, 2018
This is a version of an Aesop's fable or Uncle Remus tale given an African spin. I enjoyed this version even better since the moral of man living in harmony with all of earth's creatures equally, shines through. Wague's rich African illustrations and wording illuminate the lesson and I can see this being a good candidate for live storytelling.
November 24, 2020
There is no familiar fairytale that I can compare to this story. The story is based in west Africa and has interesting illustrations. It is about a crocodile and his family who need the help of a huntsman. There were some complications in their alliance but they eventually realized they needed to get over their differences in order for their own benefit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2019
The Hunterman and the Crocodile by Baba Wague Diakite. folk tale. The teaching point of this book is to teach children that everything on earth that is living needs to live in harmony and humans shouldn't think they are higher up in the hierarchy than other living things.
May 18, 2021
A sweet West African folktale that teaches children to live in harmony with all living beings. The illustrations were gorgeous, and made me wish I had a print copy of this rather than the free e-book I read online.
September 25, 2017
A West African folktale about Donso who is a hunterman. He learns the importance of living in harmony with nature and the necessity of placing humans among, not above, all other living things.
January 23, 2018
I like the message of reevaluating our connection with nature
December 2, 2019
I loved this story about man’s reminder of where he fits in the circle of life.
May 27, 2022
I like the message at the end
November 15, 2017
Title: The hunterman and the crocodile
Author/illustrator: Diakité, Baba Wagué.
Genre: West-African folktale
Theme(s): harmony, unity, nature
Opening line/sentence: “There was a time when Bamba the Crocodile took a pilgrimage to Mecca with his family.”
Brief book summary: Bamba the crocodile tricks a hunterman into carrying him and his family across the river. The hunterman begs passing animals for help, but each one refuses to help because of how man has hurt them. A rabbit passes by and cleverly helps the hunterman escape to save his ill wife with a few crocodile tears. The grateful hunterman invites the rabbit back to feast and remembers to live among nature in harmony.
Professional Recommendation/review #1:
Horn Book Review
(http://www.hornbookguide.com/cgi-bin/...)
After Donso rescues a crocodile family, they turn on him and threaten to eat him. Several creatures, such as a cow and a horse, refuse his appeals for help, saying that Man has always misused them in the past. Only clever Rabbit is willing to assist him. Bold figures painted on ceramic tiles illustrate this teaching tale about 'living in harmony with nature and the necessity of placing Man among--not above--all living things.'
Professional Recommendation/review #2:
NYPL
Booklist Monthly Selections
(https://browse.nypl.org/iii/encore/re...)
Malian author-illustrator Diakitemakes a strong debut with this vibrant version of a West African folktale. Tired and hungry after a long journey, Bamba the Crocodile convinces Donso the Hunterman to carry his family to the river. After promising not to eat the man, Bamba has second thoughts. When the hunter appeals to others for help, they side with the crocodile; the cow, the horse, the chicken, and even the mango tree have personal experience with man's ingratitude. It is trickster Rabbit who finally comes to the rescue. Unlike other, more familiar versions of the story, Diakite's simple and successful retelling ends on a note of reconciliation rather than retribution. The artist breathes new life into the centuries-old art form of hand-painted ceramic tiles. The striking paintings, surrounded by borders with ethnic motifs, are dominated by stylized black figures set against orange-yellow backdrops. A splendid addition to folklore shelves.
Response to two professional reviews: The second review’s description of the detail that went into the illustrations is commendable. It notes that this retelling ends on a note of reconciliation rather then retribution, which I would agree with. The first review ends with a statement that captures the theme of the story: Man among—not above—all living things.
Evaluation of literary elements: The century-old art form of hand-painted ceramic tiles adds to the reflection of the culture of West Africa. The repetition and ending with a moral lesson is another element that a folktale usually possesses. Each of the animals is colored black, enabling them to stand out against the background. They also look stronger/more intense, as Molly Bangs stated.
Consideration of instructional application: This has a great moral lesson. I could use this text to talk about repetition, sound words, setting, plot, or character. I think it would be fun to use with a lesson on the culture of West Africa, as well. I could also add music into the lesson, and really give the children an opportunity to learn about a new place/culture. Children could create their own drums and play along to the music, or I could use the drums to clap out syllables found in the words of the story.
Author/illustrator: Diakité, Baba Wagué.
Genre: West-African folktale
Theme(s): harmony, unity, nature
Opening line/sentence: “There was a time when Bamba the Crocodile took a pilgrimage to Mecca with his family.”
Brief book summary: Bamba the crocodile tricks a hunterman into carrying him and his family across the river. The hunterman begs passing animals for help, but each one refuses to help because of how man has hurt them. A rabbit passes by and cleverly helps the hunterman escape to save his ill wife with a few crocodile tears. The grateful hunterman invites the rabbit back to feast and remembers to live among nature in harmony.
Professional Recommendation/review #1:
Horn Book Review
(http://www.hornbookguide.com/cgi-bin/...)
After Donso rescues a crocodile family, they turn on him and threaten to eat him. Several creatures, such as a cow and a horse, refuse his appeals for help, saying that Man has always misused them in the past. Only clever Rabbit is willing to assist him. Bold figures painted on ceramic tiles illustrate this teaching tale about 'living in harmony with nature and the necessity of placing Man among--not above--all living things.'
Professional Recommendation/review #2:
NYPL
Booklist Monthly Selections
(https://browse.nypl.org/iii/encore/re...)
Malian author-illustrator Diakitemakes a strong debut with this vibrant version of a West African folktale. Tired and hungry after a long journey, Bamba the Crocodile convinces Donso the Hunterman to carry his family to the river. After promising not to eat the man, Bamba has second thoughts. When the hunter appeals to others for help, they side with the crocodile; the cow, the horse, the chicken, and even the mango tree have personal experience with man's ingratitude. It is trickster Rabbit who finally comes to the rescue. Unlike other, more familiar versions of the story, Diakite's simple and successful retelling ends on a note of reconciliation rather than retribution. The artist breathes new life into the centuries-old art form of hand-painted ceramic tiles. The striking paintings, surrounded by borders with ethnic motifs, are dominated by stylized black figures set against orange-yellow backdrops. A splendid addition to folklore shelves.
Response to two professional reviews: The second review’s description of the detail that went into the illustrations is commendable. It notes that this retelling ends on a note of reconciliation rather then retribution, which I would agree with. The first review ends with a statement that captures the theme of the story: Man among—not above—all living things.
Evaluation of literary elements: The century-old art form of hand-painted ceramic tiles adds to the reflection of the culture of West Africa. The repetition and ending with a moral lesson is another element that a folktale usually possesses. Each of the animals is colored black, enabling them to stand out against the background. They also look stronger/more intense, as Molly Bangs stated.
Consideration of instructional application: This has a great moral lesson. I could use this text to talk about repetition, sound words, setting, plot, or character. I think it would be fun to use with a lesson on the culture of West Africa, as well. I could also add music into the lesson, and really give the children an opportunity to learn about a new place/culture. Children could create their own drums and play along to the music, or I could use the drums to clap out syllables found in the words of the story.
June 8, 2011
Humane ideas are introduced in a fun way with this wonderful storybook. Hunterman and the Crocodile uses traditional artwork to illustrate this African fable.
Donso the Hunterman encounters Bamba the crocodile and his family while out walking. The crocodiles are weak from their journey, and ask Donso to carry them back to the river. Once back in the water, the reptiles are revitalized, and hungry! They challenge Donso to come up with a reason why they shouldn’t gobble him up. Dondo calls for help to a succession of animals standing along the riverbank.
The Cow relies:
“Mook! I will not interfere. Man does not respect others. Look at me. I spent my life providing milk and giving up my children to Man. Now that I am old, Man gives me no consideration. I don’t care if Bamba eats you.”
Horse says:
“Man is weak. I used to help him plow his fields and haul big loads. But I was only beaten for my helpfulness. Mook! I would be foolish to intervene. I should let Bamba have you.”
And Chicken :
“Mook, mook, mook!” she said. “You do not deserve my help. Man takes my eggs – my children. And when he is very happy, he and his friends feast over my body. Bamba, eat him if you like.”
Finally, Donso turns to the Mango tree. Yet man has treated her no better. She tells Donso that man only repays her for her fruit and shade by cutting her down and burning her.
Finally, clever Rabbit advises Donso on how to escape, and, expecting to take revenge, he ties up the crocodiles and plans to take them home and cook them. However, when he gets home with his quarry, he discovers his wife is ill and can only be cured by the tears shed by a living crocodile. Realizing that revenge is not the most important thing in the world, he strikes a bargain with the reptiles:
“Let these be the last tears any of us shed today, Bamba. I will release you and your family in exchange for a few of your tears.” With this, the crocodile family shed tears of joy, which the hunterman gathered quickly in his drinking gourd before rushing home to save his wife.
The book ends on a fantastic note:
Donso never forgot the lessons he learned from the cow, the horse, the chicken, the mango tree, and the rabbit. From that time forward he has reminded people of the importance of living in harmony with nature and the necessity of placing Man among—not above—all living things.
Donso the Hunterman encounters Bamba the crocodile and his family while out walking. The crocodiles are weak from their journey, and ask Donso to carry them back to the river. Once back in the water, the reptiles are revitalized, and hungry! They challenge Donso to come up with a reason why they shouldn’t gobble him up. Dondo calls for help to a succession of animals standing along the riverbank.
The Cow relies:
“Mook! I will not interfere. Man does not respect others. Look at me. I spent my life providing milk and giving up my children to Man. Now that I am old, Man gives me no consideration. I don’t care if Bamba eats you.”
Horse says:
“Man is weak. I used to help him plow his fields and haul big loads. But I was only beaten for my helpfulness. Mook! I would be foolish to intervene. I should let Bamba have you.”
And Chicken :
“Mook, mook, mook!” she said. “You do not deserve my help. Man takes my eggs – my children. And when he is very happy, he and his friends feast over my body. Bamba, eat him if you like.”
Finally, Donso turns to the Mango tree. Yet man has treated her no better. She tells Donso that man only repays her for her fruit and shade by cutting her down and burning her.
Finally, clever Rabbit advises Donso on how to escape, and, expecting to take revenge, he ties up the crocodiles and plans to take them home and cook them. However, when he gets home with his quarry, he discovers his wife is ill and can only be cured by the tears shed by a living crocodile. Realizing that revenge is not the most important thing in the world, he strikes a bargain with the reptiles:
“Let these be the last tears any of us shed today, Bamba. I will release you and your family in exchange for a few of your tears.” With this, the crocodile family shed tears of joy, which the hunterman gathered quickly in his drinking gourd before rushing home to save his wife.
The book ends on a fantastic note:
Donso never forgot the lessons he learned from the cow, the horse, the chicken, the mango tree, and the rabbit. From that time forward he has reminded people of the importance of living in harmony with nature and the necessity of placing Man among—not above—all living things.
May 8, 2015
This West African folk tale tells about a man who helps out a crocodile and then is nearly eaten by the crocodile. It is a trickster tale with no clear over-all trickster, as by turns the man, the crocodile, and the rabbit are all tricksters.
When my classmates were giving presentations, one of the groups I listened to reported on West Africa, and mentioned that there is a lot of onomatopoeia in West African tales. This can certainly be seen in this story, as the animals walk away. The cow walks away "dingi-donga, dingi-donga" and the chicken walks away "ko, ko, ko." This is a very interesting aspect of West African tales, and one that I think that children should be aware of.
This would be a great story to study as part of West African culture. It would also be a great story to illustrate the importance of treating animals and nature with respect, as the animals repeatedly show Donso the Hunterman that humans have not treated animals or nature respectfully, and have misused them. This nearly is the end of Donso, as none of the animals want to help him because man has been so terrible to them in the past. At the end of the book, the author, Baba Wague Diakite, points out other stories that tell a very similar story, including an Aesop's fable and Uncle Remus tales. It would be interesting for the children to do a study of a few of these tales and to look for similarities and differences.
When my classmates were giving presentations, one of the groups I listened to reported on West Africa, and mentioned that there is a lot of onomatopoeia in West African tales. This can certainly be seen in this story, as the animals walk away. The cow walks away "dingi-donga, dingi-donga" and the chicken walks away "ko, ko, ko." This is a very interesting aspect of West African tales, and one that I think that children should be aware of.
This would be a great story to study as part of West African culture. It would also be a great story to illustrate the importance of treating animals and nature with respect, as the animals repeatedly show Donso the Hunterman that humans have not treated animals or nature respectfully, and have misused them. This nearly is the end of Donso, as none of the animals want to help him because man has been so terrible to them in the past. At the end of the book, the author, Baba Wague Diakite, points out other stories that tell a very similar story, including an Aesop's fable and Uncle Remus tales. It would be interesting for the children to do a study of a few of these tales and to look for similarities and differences.
April 15, 2015
Personal Response: Illustrations are always an important part of a book to me, and I really enjoyed the illustrations in this book. They took up the full page and were very unique. I read that they were originally done on ceramic tiles which I thought was really interesting. I also liked the emphasis that this book put on harmony with nature. That was a big take-away from this book.
Purposes:
- ages 4-8
Read Aloud for Curricular Purposes:
- This book would work very well in a unit on folk tales, because it has a lot of the traditional elements of folk literature. For example, it has a trickster character (Rabbit), a quest/journey, and animal characters that talk.
- This book would also work well for a unit on Africa, as it is a traditional folk tale. It also reveals some of the values of the culture, like harmony with nature. It feels very authentic.
Independent Reading:
- I would recommend this book to a student who is interested in learning about Africa or traditional folk tales.
Literary Elements that could be taught:
- onamatopoeia: this book has a lot of onomatopoeia, like how the cow walks with the sound "dinga donga dinga donga"
Other: This book is told from a diverse perspective: traditional Western African. It does not take place in a typical American city or town. It is a very different setting with very unique characters.
Purposes:
- ages 4-8
Read Aloud for Curricular Purposes:
- This book would work very well in a unit on folk tales, because it has a lot of the traditional elements of folk literature. For example, it has a trickster character (Rabbit), a quest/journey, and animal characters that talk.
- This book would also work well for a unit on Africa, as it is a traditional folk tale. It also reveals some of the values of the culture, like harmony with nature. It feels very authentic.
Independent Reading:
- I would recommend this book to a student who is interested in learning about Africa or traditional folk tales.
Literary Elements that could be taught:
- onamatopoeia: this book has a lot of onomatopoeia, like how the cow walks with the sound "dinga donga dinga donga"
Other: This book is told from a diverse perspective: traditional Western African. It does not take place in a typical American city or town. It is a very different setting with very unique characters.
December 20, 2016
a summary:
hunter: omg a crocodile like whats up friend why are you so far away from the river?
crocodile: tired. carry me.
hunter: no!!! youre dangerous. youll eat me!!!
croc: i wont tho.
hunter: k.
hunter: here we are in the water
croc: thanks you look TASTY LOL JUST KIDDING BEFORE IMA EAT YOU.
hunter: nooo
hunter: .....
croc: .....
hunter: hey someone
horse: wut
hunter: halp pls
horse: no. "et ta ka!" humans are WEAK
hunter: hey
cow: no i hate humans
hunter:hey
croc: this is fine ill just wait
chicken: what do you want human nvm you lost your chance. you devour my flesh on the regular bye i hope you die bye.
animals in general: all humans do is eat us
hunter: -shrugs-
rabbit: LOL okay so why dont you just stack the crocodiles on your head?
hunter: k
crocs: dangit
hunter: im gonna eat these crocs
animals (o.s): ...right. like we said
villager: your wife gun' die
hunter: nooo why i was gonna eat crocs with you and now i cry
hunter: wait. crocs you cry too ill release you. we have a trust bond just do it.
crocs: k
animals: lets all just live in harmony and not eat each other
crocs tears save the day the end.
lolol okay well anyway it was a good lesson! also i really liked the drawings they were slightly terrifying.
hunter: omg a crocodile like whats up friend why are you so far away from the river?
crocodile: tired. carry me.
hunter: no!!! youre dangerous. youll eat me!!!
croc: i wont tho.
hunter: k.
hunter: here we are in the water
croc: thanks you look TASTY LOL JUST KIDDING BEFORE IMA EAT YOU.
hunter: nooo
hunter: .....
croc: .....
hunter: hey someone
horse: wut
hunter: halp pls
horse: no. "et ta ka!" humans are WEAK
hunter: hey
cow: no i hate humans
hunter:hey
croc: this is fine ill just wait
chicken: what do you want human nvm you lost your chance. you devour my flesh on the regular bye i hope you die bye.
animals in general: all humans do is eat us
hunter: -shrugs-
rabbit: LOL okay so why dont you just stack the crocodiles on your head?
hunter: k
crocs: dangit
hunter: im gonna eat these crocs
animals (o.s): ...right. like we said
villager: your wife gun' die
hunter: nooo why i was gonna eat crocs with you and now i cry
hunter: wait. crocs you cry too ill release you. we have a trust bond just do it.
crocs: k
animals: lets all just live in harmony and not eat each other
crocs tears save the day the end.
lolol okay well anyway it was a good lesson! also i really liked the drawings they were slightly terrifying.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. The illustrations stuck out to me and the meaning behind the book.I think this book is very true to the culture of Africa- West Africa. The culture stands out in the drawings and even in the onomatopoeias that are used to describe the animals walking away. This book would be age appropriate for kindergarten through second grade. The book focuses on how man treats nature and in this book nature and animals have a chance to respond to that. The book teaches the very important lesson that humans should live in peace with nature and animals and that humans are not above other living things. I think you could read this book when studying about the earth or the affects of humans on the world. I think it shows that other places in the world besides the USA struggle with taking care of the planet. I would have the kids write a list or draw a picture of ways that they can help keep our planet clean. then maybe as a class we could practice in a hands- on way some of those ideas or educate other classes about what we found.
April 15, 2015
Personal Response:
I liked this book because I like the message that it carries with it. The message of the story is to live in harmony with animals and nature. This story is a west african folk tale and contains beautiful monocromatic illustrations with shadowy figures. I loved the illustrations just as much as I loved the book because even though the story might have been told hundreds or thousands of times the illustrations help to make the book feel very original.
Classroom Purpose:
I think a huge purpose for this book would be to help teach student plot structure. You could ask the students what happens in the story that helps us understand why the message of the story is to live in harmony. You could also give students a set of clues to look for in the story so they will know what to look for as they are reading. This book may also help expose students to a culture that they might never ever be exposed to outside of reading books so this book can provide valuable insight to a culture and the stories that have been told there.
I liked this book because I like the message that it carries with it. The message of the story is to live in harmony with animals and nature. This story is a west african folk tale and contains beautiful monocromatic illustrations with shadowy figures. I loved the illustrations just as much as I loved the book because even though the story might have been told hundreds or thousands of times the illustrations help to make the book feel very original.
Classroom Purpose:
I think a huge purpose for this book would be to help teach student plot structure. You could ask the students what happens in the story that helps us understand why the message of the story is to live in harmony. You could also give students a set of clues to look for in the story so they will know what to look for as they are reading. This book may also help expose students to a culture that they might never ever be exposed to outside of reading books so this book can provide valuable insight to a culture and the stories that have been told there.
April 9, 2024
This clever book helps students create an appreciation for nature. It is a great book to pull out during a read aloud. The illustrations are beautiful.
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