Dramatizes the original elements known to the ancient world--earth, fire, water, and air--recounting tales of how these life-giving elements gave rise to legends, gods, heroes, and mythical beasts.
Book Description
Editorial Reviews
From Publishers Weekly
Hoffman (Amazing Grace) collects snippets of factual information, myths, stories, poems and musings in this fascinating volume about the four classic elements. At first glance the philosophy behind her selections may seem a bit heady, but Hoffman's inviting tone and lean writing style enable her to condense volumes of material from every age of world history into a relatively brief and accessible text. From ancient burial rituals to constellations in the night sky to legends of mermaids, kids will have much to mull over and enjoy. Occasional subjective comments reflect a general reverence for the natural world. Ray's (Magical Tales from Many Lands) exquisite dusty jewel-toned paintings complete this elegant package. The artist flourishes in her broadest scope of subject matter yet. Natural disasters, mythical beasts, scenes of contemporary children and symbols from various religions all have a home on these pages. Ray's by-now familiar folk art motifs and flecks of gold paint throughout give her work added vibrance. Ages 9-up.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Grade 2-6?A celebration of the magic of earth, fire, water, and air, as well as a plea to readers to right the wrongs progress has wrought on the environment. After a philosophical overview, Hoffman offers stories and images from both Western and non-Western traditions. Each of four sections begins with an introduction to an element and concludes with a look at ways in which modern society has abused it, emphasizing the need for positive strategies to correct these ills. In between are brief pieces that view the element through religious ideas, mythology, and natural disasters and phenomena. Each selection is simple and to the point. Occasional poems, e.g., Carl Sandburg's "Buffalo Dusk" or a Navajo rain chant, give an added dimension to the text. Ray's folk-art pastel and watercolor paintings are especially intriguing. Intricately detailed and illuminated with touches of gold, they provide a cross-cultural panorama of people and creatures throughout the ages, and their symbolism enriches the text. Unfortunately, there are no suggestions for further reading, glossary, or index. Nevertheless, this title will serve as a useful beginning sampler, particularly when in the hands of an adult who can lead an appropriate discussion to expand the basic text.?Nancy Menaldi-Scanlan, LaSalle Academy, Providence, RI
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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Most Helpful Customer Reviews
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Beautiful to look at!,
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This review is from: Earth, Fire, Water, Air (Hardcover)
This book is published under two titles: "Song of the Earth: The Magic of earth, fire, water, air" and just "Earth, Fire, Water, Air." The illustrations on each page are rich and detailed. The stories are for elementary school level and are grouped by element. Each element gets 8-10 tales. Each tale is just a brief 2 pages.
4 of 6 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Exquisitely done: a look at how different cultures have seen,
This review is from: Earth, Fire, Water, Air (Hardcover)
This book has some of the most fabulous artwork of all books. If you're not familiar with Jane Ray, you will never forget her amazing style after you see this book or a companion book entitled Sun, Moon and Stars. Mary Hoffman and Jane Ray team up to write and illustrate these books that show how many cultures have interpreted and been inspired by these elements and share myths, beleifs, and legends that reflect their power and influence.
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