llus. in full color. "Bowane, the cat, has asked for the hand of a beautiful feline and is returning to his future wife's village with a basket of copper and trinkets. On the way, he invites one friend after another to accompany him. But delays stall the wedding party--for years--and when the entourage finally reaches Tondo, they are not welcome. This satisfying tale owes its success to a clean, straightforward telling and beautiful illustrations. Perfect for reading aloud, this is a traveling tale for all collections."--(starred) School Library Journal.

Set in the African Jungle a civet cat wants to marry another civet cat but to do so he must bring back items to she can marry her. This book talks about loyalty that a cat has to it's many friends. After each friend has an excuse to have the civet cat wait for them so they can also go to Tondo, the civet cat waits so everyone can go together. Even though he does not make it in time to marry his future wife readers can learn about what it is to be a good friend. The book also has beautiful illustrations which enhances the visual aspect of the story so the reader can get a better grasp of what something might look like. It is a fun and entertaining book for young readers.

When Bowane the civet cat sets out to bring the bride price to his future father-in-law, he is joined on his journey by his friends Embenga the pigeon, Nguma the snake, and Ulu the turtle. But traveling to Tondo takes longer than expected in this story about the need to make wise decisions, even when it involves saying no to a friend...

Well-known for her many wonderful folktale picture-books, Verna Aardema here turns her attention to the traditions of the Nkundo people of Zaire (AKA Congo), delivering an engaging story that will "read" very well at story-hour. The glossary and pronunciation guide provided at the front is very helpful, and Aardema's inclusion of her source is a welcome indication of her respect for the material. Will Hillenbrand's lovely illustrations, both in color and in black silhouette, are the perfect complement to the story. Highly recommended to all young folktale enthusiasts, and to those who work with them. ( )

Traditional literature, folktale from Zaire
A cat sets up a marriage for himself and returns to his village to assemble the bride's gift and his wedding party. As they travel back for the wedding, each friend has a reason why he must interrupt the journey. This cumulative tale has a great lesson: sometimes we need to tell our friends "that's not a good idea!" and go our own way.