American Myths, Legends, and Tall Tales

November 15, 2016

Almost 500 short articles cover American folklore, from pre-Colonial indigenous tales to present-day legends (conspiracies, online hoaxes, urban myths). The formal chronology begins in 1531, but Native American heroes and myths (with specific tribal attribution) are well represented. More than 150 contributors, from students to professors, including Fee (English, Gettysburg Coll.) and Webb (history, Huntington Univ.), produced the entries. The set contains primary documents, a further reading section with websites, black-and-white photographs with informative captions, and pithy text boxes that significantly expand the work's scope. Those attempting to look up subjects such as "women in folklore" or "tricksters" may find the index more useful than the "Guide to Related Topics." An accessible introduction argues effectively for the truths behind myths. Although some entries (e.g., Nostradamus, Atlantis) are perhaps not very American and some topics will be familiar, readers will find new material. Naturally there are omissions (e.g., L. Frank Baum and Oz; Uncle Tom's Cabin; Joe Hill; Barbara Fritchie), and there are errors (Britain offered no bounty for settlers' scalps). But coverage is diverse in terms of gender and ethnicity. Numerous haunted house and local monster entries become redundant in the aggregate, and many articles are more descriptive (even credulous) than analytical: e.g., the Salem witch trials entry flatly asserts that Tituba taught witchcraft and ignores the role of her race. Many other entries, however, are critical and incisive, dissecting underlying values. Minor issues are outweighed by the gathering of varied strands of folklore and the inclusion of multiple narratives, historical figures (admirable and criminal), events, sites (e.g., Ellis Island), and performative and other traditions. VERDICT For general readers, especially those with an interest in anthropology or U.S. history.--Patricia D. Lothrop, formerly of St. George's Sch., Newport, RI

Copyright 2016 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 1, 2016
Folklore has been part of our heritage since the dawn of civilization. Different parts of the globe produced different stories, but they all addressed fundamental human needs and aspirations. Mass human migration pulled in its wake migration of the various tales, which blended with other tales and historical events to contribute to the existing lore. Nowhere is this more evident than in America, where the diversity of migrants for more than two centuries has woven into the fabric of American culture several strands of myths and legends that originate from all over the globe. This three-volume work seeks to explore all these strands, from the first tales promulgated by American natives to the more recent ones brought by contemporary migrants or crafted anew in America. Most entries contain outlines of relevant stories, making this a treasure trove for storytellers. Yet the intent of this work is not to provide a repertoire of stories but to explore their backgrounds, origins, evolution, and appeal. From this perspective, it is a good starting point for readers interested in studying American lore. The narrative is easy to follow, and story sketches are adequate for storytellers to embellish for their performances. The cultural or historical background could be added as a postscript after the performance. Some entries focus on the origins and evolution of a story, while other entries focus on a version of the story and its development. Each entry is heavily cross-referenced and contains additional recommended reading. This is a good general reference on American folklore.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)