I think that the art in the book is culturally appropriate, which I appreciate because it adds an extra depth when reading the book. I think that the story overall is a great way to teach children on cause and effect and to not spread “fibs” regarding other people/friends. ( )

independent reading level: 2nd to 3rd grade
Awards: Caldecott Medal winner ( )

Caldecott Medal in 1976

Based on a West African Folk Tale. Mosquito tells a tale that starts a chain reaction through the jungle and ends with an owlet being killed. The animals all want to know who is to blame. It would be a wonderful piece for teaching cause and effect. The abstract and unique illustrations were inspired by African fabrics with bold, vibrant colors and mosaic-like patterns.

I love the illustrations in this book. The pages have a black background and then the animals and scenes use bright, vibrant colors. The contrast of these compared to the background makes them pop out of the page and it's very pleasing to the eye. I'm not a huge fan of the slow pace that traditional literature sometimes has, but this African legend still kept me interested and engaged. The story tells us why mosquitoes buzz in people's ears. The mosquito said something foolish to the iguana who ended up putting sticks in his ears because of this. This caused a bunch of other problems and it all came back to the mosquito. Now the mosquito buzzes in people's ears to ask if everyone is still mad at them. And the human answers by swatting at them. I found the story to be silly and entertaining.