Review — Five-Minute Tales

By Melanie Gregg
The Bloomsbury Review — 02/1/2008

After the success of her 2004 compilation titled Three Minute Tales, renowned folklore specialist Margaret Read MacDonald is back with a new and diverse collection of highly engaging stories gathered from all over the world. Grouped by theme—animal tales, tales of trickery, origin stories, etc.—the wide range of stories provides ample material for every kind of reading hour, from a large group at the public library to an audience of one at bedtime. Each section opens with introductory comments about the genre and provenance of the tales.

The number of minutes (or seconds!) it takes to tell each story is indicated beneath the titles. MacDonald offers useful tips and cues throughout the volume to guide the storyteller through the timing, gestures, attitudes, and sound effects that will enhance the performance. Story variations and other interesting details are offered in the notes that follow each tale. This is a strong collection and will appeal to librarians, teachers, and parents alike.

Title Details: Five-Minute Tales
Author: Margaret Read MacDonald
Interest Level: GR K-3

#   #   #

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.

August House Media Contact

Rob Cleveland
404-442-4422