The Matatu

Kioko is celebrating his fifth birthday with his grandfather by riding on the matatu, or public bus, in his East African village. Onboard, the boy’s grandfather shares a Kamba folktale about why dogs chase after the matatu, goats run away from it, and the sheep do nothing (riding on the matatu one day, the sheep pays exact fair, the dog overpays and expects change, while the goat skips away without paying). Campbell fills her oil paintings with bright colors and commotion, portraying her animals with trickster-like characteristics. Walters offers tender insight into a grandfather and grandson relationship, while depicting a unique cultural experience. Ages 4–8. (Apr.)