The Two Bullies
Junko Morimoto
Library Binding
(Knopf Books for Young Readers, July 20, 1999)
Winner of Australia's Children's Book Council Picture Book of the Year Award (burst or headline)What happens with Ni-ou, the self-proclaimed "strongest fellow in Japan" rows to China to challenge his counter part, Dokkoi? Not what you'd expect. These two enormous bullies are big on brawn but low on bravery--and brains! Soon Ni-oi is hiding in the bathroom after hearing Dokkoi's thunderous footsteps. And Dokkoi is duped by the false show of Ni-oi's strength. Before they know ti, both bullies are back safe at home, grateful that they never had to fight. Eve since that day, when people in China lift up something heavy, they say, "Ni-ou!" And in Japan they say, "Dokkoi-sho!" The short accessible text makes this folktale perfect for younger children. With hilarious illustrations by an award-winning Japanese artist and the silly antics of two goofy bullies, this story proves that bigger isn't necessarily better.
L