ChildrensPictureBook.info Review

Tales from Cultures Far and Near
By Jim Weiss
Publisher Greathall Productions

Folktales are best listened to rather than read, for these are the tales told by storytellers in many different cultures. Like the trickster in the opening tale on this CD, which Weiss tells in the Lakota version, most folk tales spin a running tale of human foibles. These tales are no exception.

A favorite at our home was "The Three Friends of Manuel," which is a story of a poor boy who makes good with the help of his friends. On his way to guess the riddle that will grant him the hand of the princess in marriage, Manuel picks up three friends - an ant, a beetle, and a mouse. Each turns out to be an invaluable companion. I think what went over best in this story were the voices that Weiss created for each of Manuel's companions.

Children of all ages and their parents will enjoy listening to this CD. Use it to learn about folktales or as part of cultural geography lessons.

Tales from Cultures Far and Near

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