How Maui Slowed the Sun

Based on traditional Hawaiian sources, this relates the tale of Maui, a boy who has magical powers. He is disturbed that the days are too short and wonders, ``Why does the sun cross the sky so quickly?'' He meets fishermen and farmers who complain that the days are too short for work. His mother complains that there is no time to dry tapa cloths. Maui determinedly lassoes the sun and confronts him: ``Promise that you will cross the sky more slowly.'' The sun refuses and Maui breaks one of his legs (rays) with a war club. This confrontation continues until the sun finally relents. From that day on, one half of the year has longer days for work and play. Attractive and inexpensive, this has well-placed watercolors that enhance the accessible text. For mainland readers or islanders, Tune and Burningham present an interesting piece of Polynesian myth. Ages 5-8. (Nov.)