How to Calm a Rain Bull

Embrace the magic of the changing seasons with these 24 fascinating myths and folktales, perfect for young readers aged 8–12.

Journey around the world through over 140 full-colored, modern and whimsical storybook illustrations.

Discover the wondrous magic of nature and experience the shifting of seasons around the world with this charming and culturally diverse treasury of stories. From monsoon seasons and powerful blizzards to the summer solstice and the first frost of winter, these seasonal stories feature gods and goddesses, kings and queens, talking animals and mighty dragons.

• AN OJIBWE TALE: Discover how the great spirit Nanabhozo causes the leaves to change color every fall.
• A MEXICAN STORY: Read how the Gila monster wakes the sun from its long slumber.
• A SOUTH AFRICAN MYTH: Find out how the chief's son convinced the rain bull to start the rainy season.
• A CELTIC FOLKTALE: Follow the Oak King and Holly King as they engage in an annual battle to control the seasons, switching positions at the solstices.
• A SYRIAN MYTH: Fall in love with the little bee who hunts down the god of agriculture to restore spring.
• A CHINESE STORY: Learn about the dragon god whose eyes create day and night and whose yawn causes the rain.
• OTHER TALES INCLUDE clouds you can eat, a flying turtle, an ice king, people being turned into animals and more.

This stunning, fun collection of myths and folktales from around the world is a must-have for any personal or communal library, inviting young readers to look outside and see the magic in nature."This beautifully illustrated folk tale romp around the world will leave young readers fascinated by mankind's diverse stories and culture."
– Leslie Helakoski, Author/Illustrator

“With richly imaginative illustrations and thoughtful text, How To Calm A Rain Bull will sweep you off on adventures across the globe. Gallagher’s collection of multicultural stories is both informative and illuminating.”
– Allie Millington, New York Times Bestselling Author of Olivetti

"A tour de force . . . highly readable, approachable, a way for readers to learn about people and cultures around the world in a style and language that everyone can understand and enjoy."
– Barry Jean Ancelet, Professor Emeritus of Francophone Studies and Folklore, University of Louisiana at LafayetteDenise Gallagher is a Louisiana-based children's author and illustrator who specialises in magical folklore. Her previous books include Moonsong, A Tip Tap Tale and Peg Bearskin. Denise is the current Illustrator Coordinator for the Louisiana/Mississippi region of SCBWI and on the editorial board of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Press. Her artwork has been exhibited in museums and galleries in Los Angeles, New York, Portland, Indianapolis and throughout Louisiana.