John Henry

August 1, 2006
Gr 1-4 -These easy readers introduce tall-tale characters from American history. Each two-page opener discusses the nature of folklore and tall tales and is identical from book to book except for a few opening paragraphs devoted to the figure profiled. With simple vocabulary and some dialogue, Krensky gives children a feeling for the characters as well as the flavor of the time and the story -s setting. Full-page or full-spread paintings illustrate the texts. Solid purchases." -Lynda Ritterman, Atco Elementary School, Waterford, NJ"

Copyright 2006 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 1, 2006
This volume of the On Your Own Folklore series introduces John Henry. Written in a comfortably folksy tone, the story follows John through a number of tall-tale episodes as he grows from a mere hammer-wielding tyke to a railroad man of legendary strength and determination. In an introductory note, Krensky comments on tall-tale legends, their origins, and the roots of John Henry's story in the experiences of African American men building America's railways after the Civil War. While the narrative has its moments of understated humor, it also involves readers in John Henry's dramatic struggle to beat the machine that "could outdig any man alive." Full of light and movement, Oldroyd's impressionistic pictures effectively illustrate the story without defining every detail, suggesting characters, settings, and actions and leaving plenty of room for imagination. " Calamity Jane" is another recent volume in the series, which is well designed for young independent readers.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2006, American Library Association.)