Brer Rabbit Retold

Gr 3 Up—Traditional Brer Rabbit stories from the American South have been retold and newly illustrated to create a unique fusion of two distinct cultures. The narration echoes the rhythmic and informal storytelling voice of the African American reteller. The lessons and wisdom of the tales are sometimes punctuated by contemporary asides. For example, in one opening, the narrator states that "Sometime tradition, you got to play with it a little, keep it fresh, ahead of the curve, poetic dispensation, shall we say." Each tale concludes with a phrase and an occasional blessing to advise listeners that the tale has finished. Finely lined black-and-white prints punctuated with red accents decorate the tales in a traditional Asian Indian printmaking style. The Indian folk artist is from a nomadic community that originally created votive cloths used by lower castes, historically barred from honoring deities in temples. An accompanying CD combines jazzy blues with traditional Indian music, along with the author's rich voice, to bring a selection of stories to life. The CD is best enjoyed without the book.