The Barefoot Book of Earth Tales
by Dawn Casey (Author) Anne Wilson (Illustrator)
Seven folktales from around the world express the belief that the Earth and all living things are sacred, and that it us up to each of us to care for our part of the planet. Includes an introduction and "eco-activity" for each tale.
Learn how different cultures around the world set out to live in harmony with the natural world in this popular anthology, now in paperback. The seven folk tales are each followed by a hands-on activity that promotes green living and reinforces the eco-messages of the stories.
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Publishers Weekly
The stories in this cross-cultural collection emphasize ecological awareness. The text-heavy pages are lightened by vivid illustrations and spot art representing the stories' cultures of origin (an Australian story is illustrated with aboriginal motifs). In keeping with the environmental message, readers are encouraged to create projects offered after each story: instructions to "Make a pinecone birdfeeder" follow a Kazakh tale about freeing captive birds. While the connection between the projects and the stories might feel tenuous, the proactive component is refreshing. Ages 4-10.
Copyright 2009 Publisher’s Weekly, LLC Used with permission.
School Library Journal
This enchanting collection of folk tales and creation myths from different cultures encourages readers to live a more harmonious life with nature. A story from Aboriginal Australia describes how the Sun Mother created each part of the Earth from grass to trees to animals to human beings, instructing the first people to "look after the land for your children." A Nigerian tale illustrates how one woman's greed and carelessness concerning natural resources led to her disgrace. Five other selections warn readers of selfishness, exemplify nature's balance, and praise individuals who have given of themselves nobly in order to protect the environment. Well chosen and crafted with broad appeal, the tales are woven with subtle morals and wisdom. Each story is introduced by a brief overview about the featured locale and culture (source notes are appended) and followed by a related, easy-to-replicate activity or craft. Full-page and spot illustrations and colorful decorative borders reflect the spirit and origins of each offering. Done with collaged papers with acrylic and printed backgrounds, the stylized images depict colorfully clothed people, delightful animals, and delicately rendered flora. Add this handsome book to folk-tale sections and thematic collections intended to encourage children to be good stewards of our Earth.
Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
Dawn Casey has always been passionate about traditional tales, believing that folklore can help answer some of the deepest questions about humankind. A primary school teacher and writer, Dawn says that passing on these stories is a great privilege, as well as a great pleasure. Dawn lives in East Sussex, England with her husband and daughter.
Anne Wilson gains much of her inspiration and use of color from her travels. She has an MA in Illustration from St. Martin's College of Art, London and has been illustrating children's books for several years. She lives in Reading, England with her husband and daughters.
JUV012000 - Juvenile Fiction | Fairy Tales & Folklore | Anthologies
