Out in a field, a black dog is playing with a prized red ball. Little does he know, his escapades have not gone unnoticed. High in the sky, a raven spies the dog's antics and decides to get in on the action. He swoops down and steals the ball from the dog, flying away with it in his beak. The dog chases the teasing raven, who stays just out of reach. Round and round they go in a frenetic dance until the exhausted dog finally gives up the chase and stops to rest. Just when you think the raven's won the game, bonk!, the ball falls from the sky and bounces off the dog's head. His tail wagging once again, the dog, red ball happily back in mouth, watches as the raven, equally happy, flies away. Though Raven and the Red Ball is obviously perfect for children too young to read, it's also a thoughtprovoking tale for adults; the simple story has a surprising depth that might start you pondering many aspects of human nature.