Set in Africa, MUFARO'S BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTERS is the story of two sisters, Manyara and Nyasha.  These sisters share a physical beauty, but they do not share the same disposition.  Manyara is bad tempered and selfish; Nyasha is always loving and kind to both people and animals.  When Mufaro receives word that a great king is looking for a wife, he wants both of his daughters to go.

Manyara, who believes herself to be more deserving and beautiful than her sister, sets out early, without her father and sister, so that she can be the first to present herself to the King.  Each girl encounters the same strange people on her journey, and each girl's response to these people determines the outcome of the story.

This folktale is traditional in its approach to the story, characterization, and predictable outcome.  The daughter who is truly beautiful, both inside and out, becomes the wife of the king and the selfish sister does not prevail.  This story offers both a Cinderella tale and a story of prevailing justice to young readers.

The illustrations are as lush and rich as the beautiful country they portray.  African flora and fauna is rendered in rich watercolor illustrations that are natural yet magical in their portrayal.