Kites originated in Asia, and modern kitemaker Tom Joe seeks to preserve the craft as well as the folklore behind it. Artist Alan Takemoto illustrates Tom Joe's tales of the Polynesian fish kite made from leaves and branches to fool fish; the Chinese general whose army was trapped and so fashioned a fighting kite; and Shirone, the 'kite crazy town' in Japan where 20-foot fighting kites duel in magnificent matches. Children will be inspired to try their hand at making these kites. Animation by Glen Iwasaki.

Awards: Special Jury Award, 1988 Chicago International Festival of Children's Films

[Source: Visual Communications Distributor Catalog]