This story follows the traditional story of Beauty and the Beast… but is set in Africa, with African characters. The pictures, especially the clothes, are brightly coloured, and the landscapes and architecture are typical of an African country. This makes the story unique and important because children need to be able to see themselves in fairy tales. I have to admit that I didn’t really realise that all the fairy tales I read as a child were populated by fair-skinned, blond-haired princesses and princes. An essential twist in a classic fairy tale.
“Looking weakly up at me, the Beast said, “You have broken your promise! But I die content because I am able to see you one last time.”
“Oh no you don’t!” I cried. “You are going to live so we can be married! I realize now that I love you.”
