In this African tale, a mosquito stirs up trouble and another animal ends up accidentally dying. When all of the parties involved in the owlets death are brought before the lion king, it is determined that the mosquito is at fault. Near the end of the book the mosquito buzzes the other animals ears to see how they fell about him.
I loved the artistry in this book. The pictures were done beautifully. The story is about animals but can be about humans as well.
I would use this book to teach students how what they say can affect someone else. I would also use this book to have children describe their favorite African jungle animal.

Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears is a West African tale based on a chain of events that ends with a tragedy. Life in the jungle returns to normal, only after the rightful blame is placed on the mosquito.
This is another book that gives us insight into different cultures stories. It also shows what one small lie can sometimes cause.
Have students read and study some of the African animals in this story and share facts they learn. You can also read some American folktales and discuss the differences in cultures.

Great storytelling. ( )

This book won the 1976 Caldecott Medal Award. ( )

Fun story explaining why mosquitoes buzz in people's ears. Interesting to see how all the animals make assumptions about other animals and things spiral out of control.