Grifalconi, Ann

A young girl who misses her father, a traveling blues musician, lifts her own spirits by wearing his hat and singing his songs.

Sent by her mother to the edge of the Niger to gather rushes for the Ceremony of Beginnings, Nsia encounters many distractions, until the ancestors' spirits guide her on her way to becoming a wise little woman.

When their mother has to go into the hospital, two brothers are sent to a church home, where Tommy not only feels responsible for his younger brother but also is drawn to a boy who is dying of tuberculosis.

Small Osa is fearless during the day, climbing trees or exploring the African valley where she lives, but at night she becomes afraid of the strange and terrifying things that might lie in the dark.

In southeastern Africa, a young Yao girl and her mother find a way for their fellow villagers to escape approaching slave traders.

Osa's grandmother tells her a tale about the sins of pride and helps Osa gain a better perspective on what things are important.

In a traditional New Year's Day celebration, a young Mayan boy leads a procession over the mountainous trail to the cathedral below, where he is rewarded by the village elders for his fortitude.

A grandfather tells his granddaughter about his journey on the Underground Railroad and teaches her to be nice to everyone she meets.

Sissy feels lonely and blue until her Uncle Dan cheers her up by explaining that everything, even corn, needs special attention every now and then.