“Like a Greek myth, Johnette Downing’s charming tale highlights the dangers of greed and the rewards of generosity.”
—George Rodrigue, artist
“Johnette Downing’s vibrant storytelling makes every book a celebration between covers.”
—Cheré Coen, Louisiana author and journalist
“Take what you need and leave the rest,” is the refrain of this original trickster tale. In the old days, all of the world’s wealth was kept by the Oyster. Anyone who requested jewels that he guarded was met with the same generous refrain, and they took only what they needed. But what happens when Snake takes more than needed and that balance is threatened? Will the Oyster shed his gentle nature or will the treacherous Snake choke on his own greed?
About the Author
Johnette Downing is an award-winning, internationally recognized singer/songwriter who performs original children’s music. Her many accolades include six Parents’ Choice Awards, four iParenting Media Awards, and an Imagination Award. The author of nine books with Pelican, she wrote and illustrated There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed Some Bugs, My Aunt Came Back from Louisiane, and Why the Crawfish Lives in the Mud and authored Chef Creole, Down in Louisiana, Today Is Monday in Louisiana, Today Is Monday in Texas, and Today Is Monday in New York. She lives in New Orleans, Louisiana.
About the Illustrator
Bethanne Hill is a southern-born painter and illustrator whose work has appeared on the covers of numerous magazines, books, and CDs. Her bold, colorful paintings are widely collected. Hill lives in Birmingham, Alabama, with her husband, artist Darius Hill, their three children, and three crazy dogs.
WHY THE OYSTER HAS THE PEARL
By Johnette Downing
Illustrated by Bethanne Hill
JUVENILE FICTION / Animals / Marine Life
32 pp. 8 1/2 x 11
31 color illus.
Ages 5-8 Grades K-3
ISBN: 9781455614608