A Chinese Zoo — Demi

PreS Up It is surely no accident that every culture possesses fables, since they fulfill a basic human need for guidance while providing entertainment. Demi has adapted 13 fables and proverbs from the Chinese tradition and illustrated them with breathtaking grace and style. The writing style is concise, and the fables retain their the Eastern atmosphere. The book's large format is perfectly suited to the fan motif used on each two-page spread. Demi's exquisite watercolors of the hedgehogs, pandas, deer, and unicorns which populate the fables appear on an open fan on each spread. Adding to the book's aura of authenticity are the beautifully-wrought Chinese characters that accompany each proverb. A perfect blending of excellent writing and beautifully stylized illustrations that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Denise A. Anton, Cornbelt Library System, Normal, Ill.