Book details
Brer Rabbit Retold
Description
The Brer Rabbit stories were originally oral tales told by slaves from the American South. In this powerful rendering for children and adults, writer and griot Arthur Flowers re-tells them as wisdom tales for a contemporary audience, bringing them back to us as one of the sturdy roots of African-American literature.
This version also straddles storytelling forms-connecting the spoken and written word in surprising ways. The text is heir to the original oral stories, exquisitely illustrated by Jagdish Chitara, a ritual textile painter from Gujarat. Arthur Flowers then takes his stories back into the realm of the oral, with a musical spoken word performance in collaboration with a group of young Indian musicians.
Printed and bound by hand, this limited edition artists' book includes a music album and short film. This genre defying cross-media project pushes the boundaries of narrative art to a new level of accomplishment.
With music cd and download code.
Age
10-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
72 pages
Book in series
#2
Why to read
- Cultural Heritage: Reading 'Brer Rabbit Retold' allows readers to delve into the rich tapestry of African-American folklore, preserving and celebrating cultural heritage through the retelling of these classic stories.
- Moral Lessons: The tales of Brer Rabbit are known for their moral lessons and clever tricks. Reading this book can provide valuable insights into ethics and intelligence, which are as relevant today as they were in the past.
- Literary Appreciation: Arthur Flowers' retelling of Brer Rabbit stories may offer a fresh literary perspective, showcasing the author's unique narrative style and possibly incorporating contemporary elements that resonate with modern readers.
- Entertainment Value: The adventures of Brer Rabbit are entertaining and often humorous, making 'Brer Rabbit Retold' a delightful read for both young and adult audiences who enjoy timeless stories filled with wit and wisdom.