When Trees Walked/Miti ilipokuwa yatembea

K-Gr 3–Tharani's impressionistic illustrations, heavy on brushstrokes and silhouettes, are the star of this environment-themed legend set in Tanzania. According to legend, before the reign of man, trees freely roamed and enjoyed the earth. The trees had a peaceful relationship with animals, providing them with shade and fruit. This delicate balance was forever altered with the arrival of humans. Thus the story takes a turn: trees are chopped and sliced by ax-wielding humans; farms and houses are built upon tree territory. An agreement is inevitably reached: trees will stop roaming and stay in one place, offering the same benefits to animals and humans, if people will stop attacking the trees. An ominous ending warns readers that "if people, however, continue to cut [trees] down, perhaps they will begin to roam the earth again"—a conclusion sure to inspire discussion and speculation among students. A Swahili translation of the story appears alongside the English text.