Review — Cajun Folktales

By Lorriedel Davis, WiccaNet Assistant Site Manager
WiccaNet — July 30, 2006

It was with great pleasure I found this book of folktales. So often, we forget the simple wisdom and beauty of our own country's stories. Instead of reading only classical mythology, I require my students to read American Folktales such as "Moss Gown," and books like this one.

J.J.Reneaux is a well-know story-teller that fortunately for us, decided to write her tales down. The old world influences of France and Spain are felt in these tales, but they are all reflective of the unique Cajun culture of Louisiana and Southeast Texas.

The tales included are spread across a variety of subjects. There are animal tales reminiscent of Aesop's fables. The fairytales are more modern than what most people consider fairytales, but oddly timeless. My favorite in this section was the story of "Baptiste and the Pirates." Funny Folk Tales are next with humorous tales that remind me of the stories my Aunt Sally used to tell me. The last section deals with Ghost stories and include my favorite story in the book,"Fifolet," and Ms. Reneaux's signature story, "Knock, Knock,Who's There?"

Stories like these return me to my childhood. Suddenly I am sitting around the fire at the lake house listening to different tales. Some are funny, some give warnings, and a few are scary. All of the stories are entertaining and a little piece of home.

The advent of Hurricane Katrina is changing the face and culture of Louisiana and the people along with it. Books like Cajun Folktales are important because they help us to hold onto and to preserve our past. We can know where we are going if we don't know where we came from.

Title Details: Cajun Folktales
Author: J. J. Reneaux
Interest Level: GR 5-6

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About August House

Recently recognized as one of "America's 101 Top Independent Publishers," August House is a highly-acclaimed and award-winning multimedia publisher of children's stories and folktale anthologies. August House's is based in Atlanta, GA.

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