Sivu's Six Wishes — Jude Daly

The stonemason Sivu can create extraordinary things out of rock. But he is poor, and as time goes by he becomes bitter and envious. If only he could be rich and powerful -- surely then he would be happy?

When Sivu's wish is mysteriously granted six times, however, transforming him by turn into a rich businessman, the mayor, the sun, a rain cloud, and a great rock, he learns that sometimes people have the most power just by being themselves. Using clear, elegant storytelling and exquisite illustrations, Jude Daly translates the timeless Taoist story of The Stonecutter to a modern-day African setting, conveying a timeless message for our own age.