Folktales/Fairytales/Legends

SCHLITZ, Laura Amy, retel. The Bearskinner: A Tale of the Brothers Grimm. illus. by Max Grafe. unpaged. Candlewick. 2007. RTE $16.99. ISBN 978-0-7636-2730-0. LC number unavailable.

Gr 6-9–Having neither home nor hope, a ragged soldier risks his soul in a bargain with the devil—for limitless riches, he must spend seven years wandering the world cloaked in a decaying bearskin—a harrowing experience that ultimately enables him to reclaim his self-respect and humanity. Told with lyrical language and evocative sepia-toned paintings, this timeless tale will resonate with readers. B

Animated Tales of the World (Series). 6 DVDs (from a series of 39). 15 min. ea. (closed captioned). with tchr’s. guide. Prod. by Schlessinger Media. Dist. by Library Video Co. (libraryvideo.com). 2007. $19.95 ea. Includes: Arabia: The Crown and the Sceptre (ISBN 978-1-4171-0823-7); Caribbean: The Chief and the Carpenter (ISBN 978-1-4171-0828-2); Denmark: The Shepherdess and the Chimney Sweep (ISBN 978-1-4171-0832-9); England: Cap O’ Rushes (ISBN 978-1-4171-0833-6); Germany: The Enchanted Lion (ISBN 978-1-4171-0837-4); U.S.A.: John Henry, Steel-Driving Man (ISBN 978-1-4171-0858-9).

Gr 3-6–An engaging look at classic folktales from around the world. Each story is carefully crafted to impart the flavor of the country of origin, with animation and music reflecting the original fairy tale or folktale.D

Dust Echoes: Ancient Stories, New Voices. www.abc.net.au/dustechoes. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. (Accessed 8/04/08).

Gr 2-7–Twelve vibrantly painted, animated dreamtime stories, including “The Be” and “Moon Man,” come to life at this camplike site. The aboriginal pourquoi tales preserve the traditions of the Wugularr Community of the Northern Territory in Australia while sharing the messages of love, loyalty, and duty with young people everywhere. Included are story comprehension quizzes, a video mash-up activity, PDF study guides, and a glossary with audio-clip pronunciations. W