Rain

The rain is coming; the porcupine can smell it, the zebras can see it, the rhino can feel it. The message is passed between the animals. When the rain arrives the lion can taste it, and it rains and rains until the rivers and water holes are overflowing. When the rain stops the land is rejuvenated; the mud is soft and the grass is lush and fresh fruit grows on the trees. The animals enjoy the effect the rain has had, and as the plain becomes hot and dry again, they know the rain will return.

This simple, cyclical text captures the majestic nature of the animals in the African savannah with bright colours and broad painterly illustrations. The clever story also gives a nod to the hierarchy of the animals and highlights the way they rely on the weather to make their home comfortable and habitable. Useful for classrooms and gentle enough to make a soothing bedtime read at home.