The Hunterman and the Crocodile

Originally adapted from a West African folktale, this iconographic animated version of writer/illustrator Baba Wagué Diakité's 1997 children's book is winsomely narrated by the author. On a pilgrimage to Mecca, Bamba the crocodile and his family stray too far from the river, after which Bamba begs the huntsman Donso to transport them back to the safety of the water. Unfortunately, although the resourceful Donso stacks the crocs on his head and kindly carries them to shelter, the ungrateful Bamba decides to eat Donso. The poor hunter appeals to other animals in the community (and even a tree) for support, but the creatures counter that since humans exhibit no guilt for the atrocities (beating, killing, eating, etc.) they commit against nature, there's no compelling reason to feel sorry for the hunter. Luckily for Donso, a wily rabbit comes to his aid, and the fable ends with the moral that happy harmonious living depends on fair play. Featuring a xylophone-backed soundtrack and vivid imagery (most characters are depicted in black and white etchings, set against strikingly colorful scenery), this is recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (J. Williams-Wood)