The publisher notes that ``Versions of this story are told in many parts of East Africa,'' crediting a printed source and adding that ``the artist has based his depiction of Man on early Masai tribesmen''--an auspicious introduction to another handsome collaboration by the creators of How the Animals Got Their Colors (1992). In the beginning, Giraffe is shaped (in Clementson's vibrant cut-paper collages) much like a horse. In a time of drought, she and Rhino seek the help of Man, who prepares a magic herb to help them reach the juicy leaves of trees. Rhino forgets to show up when the herb is ready, so Giraffe eats a double dose and thus grows doubly tall--to Rhino's continuing annoyance. Briskly, simply told and illustrated with humor and an outstanding use of graphic design, an entertaining tale that makes a natural lead-in to Kipling's explanation for the rhinoceros's notorious bad temper. (Folklore/Picture book. 4-8)
