Written and Illustrated by Sally Scott Guynn is how some are describing this endearing new children's book cleverly disguised to both teach and entertain. Ezra, a wise old giant of a tortoise, narrates nine original animal stories to a girl riding on his back. Separate stories star fictional animal characters facing situations similar to our own--bullying, social acceptance, or how about a monkey with a personal hygiene issue, an embarrassed fireless dragon, lazy caddisfly larvae underwater and under siege, a brave grackle orphan, a minority goat who thinks he's a cow, a clever chameleon, a vain magpie queen, and an eagle and owl mystery sleuth duo? They all discover it's not always the strongest, the best looking or the smartest that can save the day but how courage, trust, compassion and teamwork can change the most extreme of social challenges into something pretty awesome. Glossaries and discussion questions offer reading bonuses along with the author's compelling art. Count on an increased interest in nature. "illustrations are charming and slightly and delightfully off-kilter...lend The Tortoise Tales great potential to appeal to young readers." "...enchanting and inspiring"-Best selling author, "...ideal for cultivating a love and appreciation of nature, wildlife and conservation..." "...combines humorous shenanigans; an approachable, contemporary voice; and intriguing information about animals..."