A young boy's journey from savanna to rain forest begins with the riddle, "A slender staff touches earth and sky at the same time." Stunning illustrations accompany the boy as he fulfills a quest to bring back the sound of rain to his West African village. The National Theatre for Children performs The Rainstick, a Fable at schools across the country. Contact 612-341-0882 x 202 or visit www.nationaltheatre.com

Five short, beautifully illustrated stories chronicle the use of spring waters by the animal world, native culture, civil war, Oklahoma pioneers, and Teddy Roosevelt. Three sections follow with lessons about the water cycle, the creation of springs, and our bodies' dependence on healthy water.

These colorful, 16-page activity booklets are written and illustrated for eight through twelve year olds. Creative and hands-on investigations, demonstrations, science experiments, educational games and stories stimulate understanding of each booklet's topic. These informative, inexpensive, award-winning booklets make excellent handouts to complement school curriculums or public education efforts.