The Perfect Orange: A Tale from Ethiopia

by Frank P. Araujo, Xiao Jun Li (Illustrator)

Inspiring gentle folktale. Breathtaking watercolors dramatize ancient Ethiopia's contrasting pastoral charm and majesty. Illustrations are rich with Ethiopian details. Story reinforces values of generosity and selflessness over greed and self-centeredness. Glossary of Ethiopian terms and pronunciation key.

Genres: Picture Books, Ethiopia, Childrens, Fiction, Africa

32 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 1994

Reviews

[Abigail · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sincere and generous, orphan Tshai finds a perfect orange in this folktale from Ethiopia, and sets out to give it to the Nigus, or king. Tempted along her way by Ato Jib, the Lord Hyena, she instead carries on, presenting her gift at court and humbly refusing all rewards. Sent home with riches despite this, she passes Ato Jib again, who imagines that he too will be given great wealth, if he presents a gift to the Nigus. But in the end, what that wise ruler is rewarding is the spirit of the gift, rather than its substance...

The Perfect Orange: A Tale from Ethiopia is the second collaboration between American author Frank P. Araujo and Chinese illustrator Xiao Jun Li, after their Nekane, the Lamiña & the Bear: A Tale of the Basque Pyrenees , and it pairs an engaging story and lovely artwork. I appreciated the central theme of the tale here—that it is giver's intention that is paramount, rather than the gift itself—and I found the accompanying watercolor artwork beautiful. As someone with an interest in Ethiopia and its language and culture, I also appreciated the inclusion of the brief note and glossary of Amharic terms at the rear. I haven't run across many picture-book presentations of traditional Ethiopian tales, so I am glad to have discovered this one, in the folklore section at my public library. I will definitely try to track down the other title from this author/illustrator team. Recommended to young folklore enthusiasts, and to readers looking for children's books with an Ethiopian setting.

[Grace Miguel Cipriano · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gorgeous, dreamy watercolor illustrations! A delightfully refreshing folk tale, plus you learn a few words in Amharic!

[Mark · Rating 3 out of 5]

Discovering a perfect orange in her Ethiopian mountain village, Tshai travels to the city to tender her prize to the great Nigus. When the girl passes the house of the Lord Hyena, the jeering animal scorns her silly gift. But the ruler himself is so moved that he tries to reward Tshai with riches. When she refuses, Nigus orders his Royal Chamberlain to follow her and give her a donkey whose saddle bags are filled with gold and jewels. The greedy hyena hastens to offer Nigus his bountiful lands and cattle. In return, the wise Nigus bestows on the crafty hyena ""our most prized possession"".

The ancient Ethiopian folktale was retold by Frank P. Araujo, who added some Amharic words and phrases to spice up the story. Illustrations by Jun Li Xiao using contrast watercolor drawings of traditional Ethiopia.

[Vermicious Knids · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Ethiopian folktale. Tshai is an orphan girl and this is her story about her selfless, sweet gift to the ruler. The Jib (hyena) is the greedy villain. The book teaches the lesson about giving from the heart without wishing for something in return. The artwork is pleasant and there are a few Amharic words, with pronunciation included, in the story as well. Sweet and delightful, with a moral to the story that parents and adults will likely enjoy.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great tale from Ethiopia about humility and what should be cherished. A bit strange about the treasure at the end, but as long as everyone is happy...