One-line Summary:
“Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears” is a captivating children’s book that explores the consequences of a simple lie and the chain of events it sets in motion in the animal kingdom.
The Lie that Started it All
In “Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears” by Verna Aardema, a West African folktale is brought to life through vibrant illustrations by Leo and Diane Dillon. The story begins with a mosquito who tells a lie to an iguana, claiming that he saw a farmer killing a baby owl. The iguana, shocked by this news, spreads the rumor to the other animals, setting off a chain of events that ultimately leads to tragedy.
As the rumor spreads, the animals become increasingly alarmed and disturbed. The owl, upon hearing the news, is so distraught that she refuses to wake up and greet the sun, causing a chain reaction of events that disrupt the natural order of the animal kingdom. The sun, puzzled by the owl’s absence, sends a messenger bird to investigate.
The Domino Effect
The messenger bird flies from one animal to another, trying to uncover the truth behind the owl’s behavior. Each animal he encounters blames another for the tragedy, passing the blame along like a game of telephone. The story unfolds with each animal’s perspective, revealing the consequences of the initial lie and the misunderstandings that arise from it.
The mosquito’s lie causes the python to hiss, which frightens the rabbit. The rabbit’s fear startles the crow, who accidentally drops a coconut on the python’s back. The python, thinking the crow did it intentionally, chases after him in anger. This chase causes the monkey to fall from a tree, and in his fall, he accidentally kills a baby owl. The animals, realizing the tragic outcome, gather around the dead owl in sorrow.
The Lesson Learned
In the end, the animals discover the truth behind the owl’s refusal to wake up. They realize that it was all a result of a simple lie told by the mosquito. The animals confront the mosquito, who feels guilty and ashamed for the chaos he has caused. The mosquito’s punishment is to forever buzz in people’s ears, reminding them of the consequences of spreading false information.
Through this captivating folktale, “Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears” teaches children and adults alike the importance of honesty and the far-reaching effects of our words and actions. It emphasizes the dangers of spreading rumors and the need to take responsibility for our mistakes.
Key Takeaways:
- Honesty is essential, as lies can have unintended and far-reaching consequences.
- Spreading rumors can lead to misunderstandings and disrupt the natural order of things.
- It is important to take responsibility for our actions and the impact they have on others.
“Mosquito, mosquito, can’t you see? You’re the reason why the owl won’t wake up and greet the sun.”
In conclusion, “Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears” is a beautifully illustrated and thought-provoking children’s book that teaches valuable lessons about honesty, responsibility, and the power of our words. It reminds readers of all ages to think before they speak and consider the potential consequences of their actions.
