Inspired by traditional animal stories from Africa, find out WHY Hyena laughs.

Once upon a time, Hyena wasn't always full of laughter. Until she came across a row of animal bottoms at the watering hole and couldn't stop laughing!

A vibrant animal adventure perfect for curious little ones. Written by Ken Wilson-Max and illustrated by the award-winning Toby Newsome.

Also available in the African Stories series: Once Upon an Elephant, Once Upon a Zebra, Once Upon a Giraffe, Once Upon a Hippo, Once Upon an Elephant, Once Upon a Leopard, Once Upon a Buffalo, Once Upon a Rhino, and Once Upon a Chameleon.

Ken Wilson-Max (Author)
Ken Wilson-Max is an award-winning author, illustrator and publisher of children's books. He was born and raised in Zimbabwe. He trained to be a graphic designer in Zimbabwe before coming to the UK. He now lives in London.

In 2020 his book, Astro Girl, won the STEAM award for early years picture books. Where's Lenny? was listed in 50 Best Culturally Diverse Children's Books by The Guardian and Max Paints the House is listed in 150 Important Children's Books by the African American Literature Book Club.

Ken has over 70 children's books published by over 15 international publishers in many languages worldwide.

Toby Newsome (Illustrator)
Toby Newsome is an award-winning illustrator working in Cape Town, South Africa. He has worked for some of the leading publishers and advertising agencies in South Africa and abroad. Toby was selected to take part in the 2017 Chen Bochui International Children's Literature Award Exhibition in Shanghai. His book, Grandma's List written by Portia Dery and published by African Bureau won the 2018 Children's Africana Book Award in the USA.