cover image AMERICAN TALL TALES

AMERICAN TALL TALES

, . . Greathall Productions, $10.95 (0pp) ISBN 978-1-882513-56-7

On the latest recording in his accomplished oeuvre, storyteller Weiss (Greek Myths; Fairytale Favorites ) introduces the tall tale genre—and some of the most colorful characters that have risen from it. Paul Bunyan, the giant lumberjack, and his blue ox, Babe, get things started, chopping their way through the forests of Maine. And, of course, stories of nature-loving Johnny Appleseed (aka John Chapman) and rootin' tootin' Pecos Bill fit right in. But most fun here is the tongue-twisting western tale "The Fastest Draw in the West," starring a cast that includes Lucky Luke from Laredo, Handlebar Harry from Houston and the Quickest Draw himself, Tall Tan Tim from Tombstone. Throughout, Weiss takes care to introduce historical tidbits and other fun facts. His spunky characterizations, interspersed with a smooth narration, make this great family listening as well as a potentially inspiring choice for classroom use. Ages 5-up. (Oct.)