This diverse collection of American folktales and true stories showcases the history and lore of the western states. Capturing the spirit of legendary figures like Jim Bridger and Kit Carson and events like the Gold Rush, stories animate American history. Experiencing these tales allows students to enjoy a vibrant aspect of history that is rarely represented and communicated: the hopes, fears, joys, and trials of the people who came before us. The United States of Storytelling: Folktales and True Stories from the Western States contains lore about early pioneers and settlers, Native Americans, and later immigrants of the states west of the Mississippi as well as the Commonwealths and Territories. Each chapter focuses on an individual state and includes approximately six folktales or true stories from that state, plus the date it entered the union. Appropriate for students in third through eighth grade, this guide is specifically suited for children studying the states in grades four through six, serving as a valuable storytime resource as well as a research springboard for these age groups. Features folklore presented by four noted storytellers and scholars Each chapter/state includes a sub-bibliography that lists sources by title; there is also a general bibliography in the back of the book Each chapter/state has its own glossary of terms

This diverse collection of American folktales and true stories showcases the history and lore of the eastern states. Recounting folk legends like those about Johnny Appleseed and Br'er Rabbit or the events at Valley Forge and the Chicago Fire animates American history. Listening to or reading these tales allows students to experience a vibrant side of history that is rarely represented and communicated: the hopes, fears, joys, and trials of the people who came before us. The United States of Storytelling: Folktales and True Stories from the Eastern States contains lore from all the states east of the Mississippi, covering early pioneers and settlers, Native Americans, and later immigrants. Each chapter focuses on an individual state and includes approximately six folktales, legends, or true stories from that state. Appropriate for students in third through eighth grade, this guide is specifically suited for children in grades four through six who are commonly studying the states, serving as a valuable storytime resource and springboard to learning for these age groups.

Engage young readers in stories they love while teaching important content with this fun book that features more than 40 folktales from around the world celebrating the animal-human bond. Written by two leaders in the field of storytelling, this compilation of folktales-all retold for elementary readers-emphasizes the admirable qualities of animal-human relationships. Stories source from folktale collections, oral histories, and science and sociology books from around the world and include learning opportunities for taking a stand against bullies, understanding wild and domestic animal habitats, and appreciating nature. Additionally, you'll be able to introduce readers to new cultures, providing a springboard for learning about other people and their ways of life. Each story is accompanied by information that identifies the country or culture of origin, sources, and interesting background facts. Exercises, questions, and suggestions promote further study and help engage readers in what they have learned. The organization of sections of stories on creatures of land, sky, sea, and water; imaginary animals; and crews of animals working together makes it easy to find what suits your audience best. Encourages reading with rich vocabulary, engaging narrative, and vivid imagery Includes cross-curricular content with information about domestic and wild animals and their habitats Features stories drawn from a variety of sources, including folktale collections, oral histories, and science and sociology books Showcases the theme of cooperation to help promote teamwork and anti-bullying Contains exercises, questions, and suggestions for further study

Traditional folktales from around the world celebrate the wisdom, courage, and even the follies of elders, presenting them as crones, wise men, sages, magic helpers, and fools. Arranged by story type, these are tales that can be used in the classroom and library, as a springboard for cultural comparisons and discussion of how wisdom is shared between generations, and how elders contribute to and are perceived by various societies. It is also a fine resource for storytellers performing in senior centers, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes. Think folk and fairy tales are all about mischievous animals, beautiful princesses, and handsome princes? Think again. One of the most prominent themes in folklore is that of the strength and role of the elders, a theme that deserves revisiting today. This collection gathers traditional folktales from around the world to celebrate the wisdom, courage, and even the follies of elders. Arranged by story type, these are tales that can be used in the classroom and library, as a springboard for cultural comparisons and discussion of how wisdom is shared between generations, and how elders contribute to and are perceived by various societies.