Two Ways to Count to Ten A Liberian Folktale

clever · lively · instructive · traditional

Genres

What is Two Ways to Count to Ten A Liberian Folktale about?

King Leopard needs to choose a successor and announces a daring challenge: the animal who can throw a spear high enough to count to ten before it lands will become prince and marry his daughter. The strongest animals try and fail, while the small, slender antelope is laughed at for entering the contest. But the antelope has a clever idea. By counting in twos, he proves that courage, intelligence and quick thinking can be more powerful than size or strength.

About the author

Ruby Dee was an American author, actor and storyteller who loved sharing lively tales with children. She wrote Two Ways to Count to Ten, a colourful Liberian folktale, and Tower to Heaven. Ruby also wrote poems, short stories and a memoir with her husband, Ossie Davis. She was known for her warm voice, creative spirit and brilliant performances on stage and screen. Her books and recordings continue to introduce young readers to imagination, friendship and the joy of storytelling.