A Tale of Two Tengu: A Japanese Folktale

In this traditional Japanese folktale, McCoy's first children's book, long-nosed goblins called tengu offer up a funny and palatable taste of the art of cooperation. Kenji and Joji, whose expandable probosces can stretch for miles, squabble over whose sniffer is finer. One day Kenji's nose reels in Princess Fumiko's beautiful kimonos; jealous Joji tries to top his friend's catch but his nose is mistaken for a swing by Prince Isao--with painful consequences for all concerned. The contest intensifies as the tengu unfurl their noses again, this time landing in the mansion of Lord Nakamura who, recognizing the kimono-thief and the injurious swing, knots them together. Escape is possible only through close collaboration. ``From now on we work together,'' they vow. Belgian artist Fossey illustrates with a surprisingly consonant blend of Japanese delicacy and a lighthearted European folk art style. Unquestionably Japanese in its prescription for achieving success, this witty retelling will prove germane to innately competitive readers everywhere. Ages 5-8. (Sept.)