was big
p. 87 · Read in the full issue
When the moon was big
f This is a collection of legends told by children from all over New Guinea and compiled by Ulli Beier when he was on the staff of the University of Papua New Guinea.
It is an enlightening and illuminating book by one who is regarded by many in West Africa and New Guinea as a midwife in a world of magic for the birth of art. This book portrays the New Guinea world of living legends which direct human behaviour and aspirations, for beside one’s fellow man there are other things to be reckoned with, and each seems to have a life of its own but in general they all partake of that mystery—life, rock, moon, weasel, mermaid, spirit, coconut and leaf.
The story is told in simple and straightforward language but the style is highly delightful and the tone essential human. Illustration by Georgina Beier are demonstrably related to the minds that told these stories. For many, this book must serve as a useful introduction to a
world of living legends.
Jo Nacola.
(When The Moon Was Big—And
Other Stories From New Guinea.
By Ulli Beier. William Collins. $3.95).