African and Caribbean Folktales, Myths and Legends
Scholastic Tales Myths & Legends Series
What’s inside...
Enjoy a rich collection of folktales, myths and legends from all over Africa and the Caribbean, re-told for young readers. From the trickster tales of Anansi the spider, to the story of how the leopard got his spots; from the tale of the king who wanted to touch the moon, to Aunt Misery's magical starfruit tree. This book includes traditional favorites and classic folktales and mythology.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
123 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What lesson do you think the story of Anansi teaches us about cleverness and consequences?
How do the different characters react to challenges? Which character's approach do you admire the most and why?
What similarities and differences do you notice between the tales from Africa and those from the Caribbean?
How do you think the landscapes described in the stories influence the adventures?
Can you think of any myths or legends from our culture? How do they compare to the ones in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the stories. Validate their opinions and gently guide them to deeper thinking by asking follow-up questions. Draw connections between the tales and your child's own experiences or other stories they know. Use the vivid settings and rich cultural elements in the book to spark discussions about geography and history, enhancing educational value.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: In several tales within the book, characters who display honesty are rewarded, teaching children the value of being truthful.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by being honest in their interactions with friends and family, building trust and strengthening relationships.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Stories in the book often feature protagonists overcoming great obstacles, showcasing the power of persistence and resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to persist through difficulties in school or social settings, reinforcing the notion that perseverance leads to success.
Example Lesson: The strength of community
Explanation: Many tales emphasize the importance of community support and collective problem-solving, highlighting how collaborative efforts can achieve great outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value teamwork and cooperation in group projects or community activities, understanding that collective effort can lead to greater success than individual endeavors.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature and environment
Explanation: Several stories integrate themes of environmental conservation, teaching children the significance of respecting and protecting nature.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to participate in environmental preservation activities such as recycling, conserving water, or planting trees.
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation and diversity
Explanation: The book explores a wide range of cultural narratives, promoting an understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing cultural diversity in their community, promoting inclusivity and understanding among peers.