local language publishing

this is the part that i think is the coolest about how Room to Read does their Local Language Publishing program:

The books are created entirely within the countries in which we work: we work with local writers and illustrators to develop new culturally relevant children's books. Many of these stories are adapted from local folktales; other stories are sourced from various writing competitions and writers' workshops that are sponsored and held by Room to Read. The competitions and workshops are designed to promote a culture of writing, not just reading, and to source and develop new creative talent. As a result, they are most appropriate within a local context, which can sometimes be very different than a children's book written for an American/European audience.
All of our local language books are printed within the respective countries in order to promote the local economy and create jobs.

here are some pictures of the book covers....







there's another one that i really like called Balloon Boy. it's about this boy who eats too many cookies and turns into a balloon! it's really cute.