From Library Journal
Editor Stewart has performed a service for short story enthusiasts with this compilation of tales selected from ten years of the acclaimed Texas Storytelling Festival. The works of 22 recognized storytellers are represented. Originating in the oral format, the tales translate effectively to the written word. Though the pieces are quickly read?most being two to four pages in length?the reader will want to savor each carefully selected word. The spirit of the "teller" is readily apparent, and the characters come to life as though they were members of one's own community. There is something to please almost any reader: from forbidden love in the fairy tale "Maiden Maleen" by Nancy Burks, to "Aunt Tucky," a witch story by Harriet Lewis. This entertaining collection of ageless stories is highly recommended.?Betsy Larson, Kalamazoo Coll. Lib., Mich.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
The diversity of Texas and the Southwest is well represented in this collection of tales, culled from the 1994 Texas Storytelling Festival. Some 22 raconteurs came together at the festival, and their contributions are gathered by Stewart in this collection of 34 memorable tales. There are regional variations, such as "Pretzel-faced Willie" --a version of "Lazy Jack." There are ghost stories (such as Jeannine Beekman's recollection of the custodian of Houston's main library, discovered working after his death), tall tales by such storytellers as Allen Damron and the late John Henry Faulk, urban legends, and the Native American stories of Gayle Ross and Lynn Moroney. There is terrific new material and suggestions for performers of library storytelling hours, and the volume is great fun to read. Denise Perry Donavin
