The Caribbean Story Finder - by Sharon Barcan Elswit (Paperback)

About the Book

"The Caribbean islands have a vibrant oral folklore. In Jamaica, the clever spider Anansi, who outsmarts stronger animals, is a symbol of triumph by the weak. Conflict over status, identity and power is a theme across the island nations. This volume summaries 438 tales retold in English and Creole from West African, European, and slave indigenous cultures"--

Book Synopsis

The Caribbean islands have a vibrant oral folklore. In Jamaica, the clever spider Anansi, who outsmarts stronger animals, is a symbol of triumph by the weak over the powerful. The fables of the foolish Juan Bobo, who tries to bring milk home in a burlap bag, illustrate facets of traditional Puerto Rican life. Conflict over status, identity and power is a recurring theme--in a story from Trinidad, a young bull, raised by his mother in secret, challenges his tyrannical father who has killed all the other males in the herd.

One in a series of folklore reference guides by the author, this volume shares summaries of 438 tales--some in danger of disappearing--retold in English and Creole from West African, European, and slave indigenous cultures in 24 countries and territories. Tales are grouped in themed sections with a detailed subject index and extensive links to online sources.

Review Quotes

"fills a gap... designed to help teachers, librarians, and storytellers find the "right Caribbean story for the right audience at the right time. The rich oral traditions of Jamaica, Haiti, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Trinidad and Tobago are on display in this well-constructed work.... bibliography is excellent...comprehensive subject index...valuable...recommended"-Choice.

About the Author

Sharon Barcan Elswit has been working as a children's librarian for 35 years. She currently teaches in New York City. She writes reviews for Jewish Book Council and has published in School Library Journal, Writer's Digest, and other magazines. Visit her website at www.sharonelswit.com .