An Armenian folktale retold by Armenian-American writer Lucine Kasbarian, of Teaneck, New Jersy, and illustrated by Moscow-based artist Maria Zaikina debuts with Marshall Cavendish Children's Publishers in April 2011.

"The Greedy Sparrow: An Armenian Tale" is from the ancient Armenian oral tradition and culture, which was nearly obliterated during the Turkish genocide of the Armenians, Assyrians and Greeks in 1915. The author learned the tale from her father, editor and columnist C.K. Garabed, who would recite it to her at bedtime. He had learned it from his own grandmother, a celebrated storyteller from the Old Country. The tale was first put to paper by Armenian poet Hovhannes Tumanyan at the turn of the 20th century.

The Greedy Sparrow is the first time this tale has been presented in the English language as a children's picture book. The story begins in old Armenia with a sparrow who catches a thorn in his foot. As he asks for help, he sets off an intriguing cycle of action that transports him through the Armenian countryside, encountering people engaged in traditional folkways. The Greedy Sparrow ends with a surprising twist and conveys moral messages about greed, selfishness and using one's judgment. To address the ethical and human components of the tale, a discussion and activity guide will be available on the author's website at www.lucinekasbarian.com.

Though intended for readers ages 4 through 8, noted Sesame Street host and storyteller Bob McGrath said, "The Greedy Sparrow is actually for everyone. It's clever and humorous, and the wonderful illustrations not only add color but also truly interpret the story line."

Author Kasbarian is a syndicated journalist and Director-on-Leave from Progressive Book Publicity. The author and her husband, journalist David Boyajian, live in Belmont, Mass. and Teaneck.

The Greedy Sparrow is a 32-page illustrated hardcover book, available through brick-and-mortar and online booksellers, as well as through the publisher, NorthJersy.com reported.