Copyright Date:
2006
Edition Date:
2006
Release Date:
03/31/06
Pages:
xiv, 169 pages
ISBN:
1-563-08930-0
ISBN 13:
978-1-563-08930-5
Dewey:
398.20981
LCCN:
2006000382
Dimensions:
27 cm.
Language:
English
Reviews:
Voice of Youth Advocates
The folktales in this well-organized and inviting collection reflect the mix of indigenous, European, and African cultures in Brazil. The book is divided into eight sections, grouping the tales by type, such as magical tales, animal tales, or scary tales. Some sections are also grouped by geographic region of origin; stories from the indigenous people are separate from the stories influenced by European or African connections. One section concerns the trickster Pedro Malasartes while another, Tales of Enchantment, contains stories with elements similar to familiar fairy and folk tales. The final chapter includes information about Brazilian festivals and some recipes for festival food. The stories are written in clear and cogent language, and most are no more than two or three pages long and easy to learn. There are no illustrations, but a colorful sheaf of photos in the center gives readers an idea of what life in Brazil is like today and shows some of the items common to many of the stories. The book is packed with extra information, including an introduction to Brazil and its storytelling traditions; an appendix with more information about the tales and their motif numbers; a bibliography; and a useful index. A guide with all the pronunciations in one place would have been very useful instead of being scattered within the text. Overall the collection is a worthwhile choice that will especially enhance curriculum support in school libraries.-Donna Scanlon.
Bibliography Index/Note:
Includes bibliographical references (page 161) and index.
A rich brew of more than 40 traditional Brazilian tales--from creation stories and stories of enchantment to animal and trickster tales--draws on the varied cultural traditions of indigenous peoples, people of African descent, those of European (and particularly Portuguese) descent, and mixtures of these groups. The stories are retold by today's accomplished Brazilian storytellers. Also includes background information on the country and the tales, color photographs, traditional recipes, and children's games. Brazil, the largest country in South America, covers a vast terrain that ranges from the tropical rain forests of the Amazon basin and upland farms, to towering mountains and sandy beaches; from highly populated urban centers to virtually inaccessible interior jungle regions. Its population is composed of indigenous peoples (e.g., Tupy, Kaxinawa, Taulipang), people of African descent, those of European (mostly Portuguese) descent, and mixtures of these groups. Drawing on the varied cultural traditions and ethnic diversity of the country, this collection offers readers a rich brew of traditional Brazilian tales--from creation stories and stories of enchantment to animal and trickster tales. More than 40 stories are included, along with background information, color photographs, recipes, and games. There are very few collections of Brazilian folktales currently available in English, and none with this depth and range. This is a wonderful treasury for storytellers, folklorists, and educators. Also a great resource for educators planning units on the Amazon rain forest! All grade levels.