The banza is a Haitian instrument, a precursor to the banjo. It's central to this story about a tiger and goat who become friends. When they must separate, the little Tiger, Teegra, gives Cabree the goat a banza as a gift of their friendship. He tells her that if she plays it with her heart it will protect her. One day, surrounded by menacing tigers Cabree remembers Teegra's words and finds strength in her own song.
Both the author and illustrator explain how they used Haitian art and folklore as inspiration for this story.
The Banza
Diane Wolkstein
pictures by Marc Brown 1981
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