THE GOLDEN DEER
adapted by Margaret Hodges & illustrated by Daniel San Souci
In this reverent version of a Jataka tale, a magnificent stag known as the Banyan Deer goes willingly to sacrifice in place of a pregnant doe. When the king of Benares hears the deer speak, he releases it, pledging protection to its herd and to ``creatures of all kinds who live in fear of men.'' In turn, the deer agree to stay away from local farmers' fields. Long after, the Banyan Deer was reborn as the Buddha. San Souci's exact, brightly lit watercolors follow the story closely, capturing the grace and dignity of both the dappled golden deer and the theme of concern for all life. (Nonfiction/Picture book. 6-8)