Counting the Stars : Four Maori Myths

Four excitingly told and stunningly illustrated Maori stories for children aged 3-10, by top New Zealand children's writer and illustrator Gavin Bishop.

Counting the Stars continues to take traditional myths to a new level. Created by one of New Zealand's most talented and passionate children's book writers and illustrators.

A sequel to Taming the Sun and Riding the Waves, Gavin Bishop's latest stunning book contains four more Maori myths, including two well-known legends (Ranginui and Papatuanuku and Hinemoa and Tutanekai) and two less well-known legends (The battle of the birds and Kae and the whale).

Aimed at children 3-10 years, these myths are simply written and yet powerful. They're exciting and scary but each story is nicely resolved. Gavin allows the essence of the original myths to remain while also re-telling them for a new generation of children.

The illustrations are stunning - the different colour palette for each story and the strong mix of techniques create bold and beautiful images.

Featured in the 27 July 2009 New Zealand newsletter.
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