Peace Tales: World Folktales to Talk about

MacDonald's collection of folktales, proverbs and fables from diverse cultures is meant to encourage youngsters to think and talk about how certain actions have peaceful consequences, while others lead to conflict. The importance of patience, understanding and working together is the common theme connecting the selections, which include Zen tales, Japanese and Polynesian legends, Mexican fables and Native American stories. The pieces range widely in length and complexity, from rambling legends that youngsters will need help deciphering, to pithy statements whose message is crystal clear (``All the world smiles in the same language''). Though the relevance of some of the more sophisticated entries may elude young readers, this is a well-intentioned, commendable compilation. Ages 9-up. (July)