Feathered Quill Book Reviews

 #Bookreview of The Dance of the Sambar Deer and More Singaporean Fables

By: Chen Junhua

Illustrated by: Chan Shu Yin

Publication Date: 2024

ISBN: 978-981-47-5766-9

Reviewed by: Kathy Stickles

Review Date: May 5, 2025

The Dance of the Sambar Deer and More Singaporean Fables is the second volume of ten beautifully illustrated and wonderfully written stories that will be adored by many. These tales will not only intrigue young children, but also teach them some important lessons in life about wisdom, greed, and being a very good friend, just to name a few.

From the small hermit crab who wants to find a place to call home to the two sea turtles who have been friends from birth but learn that life may take them in different directions to the blue tarantula who learns how to feel brave, these stories will engage any child. Not only do the stories teach but, what I found simply wonderful, were the “fun facts” found at the end of each of them that will teach children about the actual animals in the story. Not only do the stories teach important lessons but the fun facts teach those who are curious about animals and science. This book is definitely a win-win for any parent or teacher trying to broaden the minds of children in their care.

While it is hard to choose, I would have to say that my personal favorite of the ten stories is "The Helpful Firefly." This is the story of a little squirrel who strays too far from home looking for adventure and gets lost. He is helped out by a tiny firefly name Lumi. This fable shows that no matter how small you might be, there is always a way to help others when they are in need.

Each story in the book is adorable and shows the reader morals that are important to everyone. Values such as friendship, how to help others, and how to be happy with what you have and not want more are all portrayed in this book in a manner that teaches without lecturing and I feel that is so important when dealing with children. Even though the stories come from Singaporean folklore, these are universal ideas that will not be out of place anywhere.

The illustrations in the book are incredible. Even when the concept might be one that is a bit frightening for a child, such as a scary dark forest or a large creepy tarantula, these illustrations are fun and charming in their design and colors. They provide the ultimate addition to an already mesmerizing book.

The Dance of the Sambar Deer and More Singaporean Fables is a book that should be on every child’s shelf and in every school classroom. It is a delightful collection that instructs as much as it entertains and you really cannot ask for more than that.

Quill says: Each fable in this book is wonderful in its own way and teaches an important lesson. This book, however, gives so much more to a child since it also showcases the beliefs and lore of another culture. It is a marvelous combination.