Promoting children's books

I have just returned from an extensive trip to Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. My purpose in being in Indonesia was to assist Dr. Murti Bunanta in giving workshops related to storytelling, children's books and reading.

Indonesia is home to persons of Islamic, Christian, Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. All of these religions use parables, stories or hadith, to teach simple truths of life. I was already familiar with many Indonesian stories, but I found many new ones, and discovered that there are still very good storytellers in Indonesia. You should do all you can to promote this rich heritage.

I would especially like to commend the work of Dr. Murti Bunanta and her organization. They are doing such remarkable work in trying to promote the cause of good oral and written literature for children in Indonesia. She and Suryadi (Pak Raden) deserve medals for their devotion to this cause, which is so important to Indonesia's future.

ANNE PELLOWSKI

Winona, Minnesota