Author/Illustrator: Baba Wague Diakite
Publication Info: Scholastic Press, 1999
ISBN: 978-0590960694
Source: Library
Intended audience: ages 4 and up
Genre: picture book (fiction)
Themes/topics: folk tales, fables, Mali, monkeys, cleverness, tricksters
Opening and synopsis: ”BaMusa the hatseller was a joyful man. He traveled from town to town selling hats, which he piled high on his head.”
Eager to sell hats at the festival, BaMusa sets off without breakfast. Tired and hungry, he lies down for a nap, and clever monkeys steal his hats. BaMusa must figure out how to get them back.
Why I like this book: CAPS FOR SALE by Esphyr Slobodkina is a family favorite. I had no idea that its source was a folk tale that is told in many countries, including Mali. This is the same story set in Mali and illustrated with beautiful ceramic-tile paintings. I also appreciate that this telling of the story emphasizes that BaMusa had not eaten breakfast, so he didn’t have energy and couldn’t think clearly. He can only figure out what to do after he’s eaten. My favorite quote from the book is, “It is with a full stomach that one thinks best.”
- Diakite includes and author’s note with the history of the folktale, as well as a list of other versions of this tale, including CAPS FOR SALE.
- Reading to Kids has discussion ideas and a couple of craft suggestions, including making hats or drawing a picture of a saying your mom says.
- A full lesson plan, including step-by-step hat-making instructions, are at Easy Literacy.
- Children can learn more about Mali on National Geographic’s site.
Every Friday bloggers review “Perfect Picture Books.” Find a complete list of book reviews organized by topic, genre and blogger at author Susanna Leonard Hill’s site.
Kirsten W. Larson 
That’s really interesting, Kirsten. My son has always loved Caps for Sale, too. This would be a good complement to that book.
This book was a lucky find at the library. My Mom stumbled upon it. It’s amazing how many countries have a version of this story.
Wow! Who knew that Caps for Sale was based on a folk tale? Fascinating and FUN!
I know! Apparently the tale is also found in Egypt, Sudan, India and England.
That’s great for teaching kids not to skip breakfast. Sounds funny too.
I know. I was thinking how useful this might be since I am always telling my son to eat his lunch at school so he can learn.
Oh my son is so slow eating lunch and always says there wasn’t enough time to eat it. I’d rather him eat at lunch than play but still, something’s wrong with the system or he needs to speed up.
A friend of mine ate so slowly as a kindergartener that her mother made her practice with a timer to make sure she could finish her lunch!
Wow, England too, how fascinating, I had no idea of the folk tale link either! I think best on a full stomach too!
Me too, especially if I’ve just eaten chocolate or gummi bears.
This book sounds great on so many levels — and I love that it’s a folk tale that has popped up in so many different places. Thank you, Kirsten!
You are welcome Beth. I’m sure you’ve read CAPS FOR SALE. If not, you must.
Actually, no, I haven’t read CAPS FOR SALE. I’m rather ashamed to admit it, since everyone else seems to know it so well. I’ve just checked our library’s online catalog, and the only copy in the city is a BIG book version. There are copies all over the province in other libraries, but not in our library (note: I live in a city with many branch libraries…) Guess I’ll either have to read the big book, or request the regular sized one!
Hi Beth, I hope you can read it whether its large or small. It’s a great book.
thanks, had no idea CAPS FOR SALE was based on a folktale.
Apparently there are several other books that tell the tale as well. I might have to check them out to compare.
Caps for Sale is a favorite at our house too! What a surprise that it’s found all over the world. It’s a small world we live in. Dogs, too, think best on a full tummy. I tell my Mom Person that ALL the time! Feed me! Feed me!
Who doesn’t think best on a full tummy? Of course, if it’s too full, then I only want to nap.
Wish I had this back when my daughter didn’t want to eat breakfast! And Caps for Sale was a childhood favorite too.
I know. I love it when books can help teach and entertain at the same time.
I am not going to be able to carry all the books I get at the library this week including this one. I am especially intrigued by the art work. Thanks for all the great links too.
I know. That’s what I love about PPBF. I put loads of books on hold at the library, and then I have a few I know we’ll love when we do the library mad grab.
I had no idea Caps For Sale was a retelling! I love seeing this version! And I LOVE that quote! 🙂 Thanks so much for sharing this, Kirsten! It must be great if it made you post a fiction title 🙂
Well, I have to say, the quote reminded me of your blog posts, which always begin with a tasty morsel.
I love Caps for Sale! I like the quote you mentioned from the book too! 🙂
Well, I know I get my best work done with a few Gummi Bears in hand.
I didn’t know that either about Caps For Sale.
It sounds like a book I should be reading … Breakfast is my least favourite meal:)
Thanks for stopping by my blog, Kirsten!
Barbara
Grade ONEderful
Ruby Slippers
I’m sure your grade one’s would enjoy the book. I think it’s a fun exercise in compare and contrast.
Great choice! I read all of the comments and found the discussion interesting. Love your picks.