Solomon And the Ant: And Other Jewish Folktales
by Sheldon Oberman
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Book Summary Information
Author: Sheldon ObermanIllustrator: Peninnah Schram
Edition: Hardcover
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2006-01-28
ISBN: 1590783077
Number of pages: 165
Publisher: Boyds Mills Press
Book Reviews of Solomon And the Ant: And Other Jewish Folktales
Book Review: SOLOMON AND THE ANT: AND OTHER JEWISH FOLKTALES
Summary: 5 Stars
Much heart has gone into the creation of this handsome book, where 43 gently humorous, Jewish teaching folktales call to be shared aloud. Selections include religious stories, fables, and wisdom, trickster, and riddle tales, warmly retold by the late Sheldon Oberman, of The Always Prayer Shawl fame, and lovingly wrapped with expert commentary by Peninnah Schram, who prepared the manuscript for publication at his request. Lively dialogue refreshes traditional favorites and introduces many new tales less likely to be found in other modern collections. Character resourcefulness abounds. A merchant tricks a farmer into returning stolen money by letting him think he will be able to steal more. A girl learns how to face a bully by first collecting three hairs from a frightening dog. A discontented man comes to accept his own problems when he sees what is happening in other houses. Maimon wins a poisoning contest without using any real poison at all. King Solomon learns humility from an ant. Stories, some given new settings, take place through time in Holland, Morocco, America, and England, as well as Eastern Europe and Biblical lands. Oberman's notes set historical context for the tales, and Schram's expand what a particular story reveals about Jewish traditions and values. Both generously slide in other stories and delectable tidbits. Classic origins for the tales, along with selected sources and variants and motifs, complete each entry. The book ends with a glossary and comprehensive bibliography of approximately one hundred folklore collections. There is so much here. Attracted by Lloyd Bloom's arresting jacket art, readers will want to stay. Highly recommended for ages 8 and up. Reviewed by Sharon Elswit
Summary of Solomon And the Ant: And Other Jewish Folktales
Jewish folk literature contains a rich repertoire of tales that have been told near the hearth, at the table, and in the synagogue for centuries. Some tales address life's problems. Others offer insight into human behavior. Even when the stories make us laugh, they often give us something to think about.This treasure trove of forth-three folktales includes religious, wisdom, riddle, and trickster tales. In these pages, you will meet King Solomon, who demonstrates his wisdom and learns valuable lessons from birds and ants. The prophet Elijah makes an appearance, with dire consequences for a greedy husband and wife. The hapless citizens of Chilm are here, too. In addition, there are bakers and beggars and rabbis. There are mice and lions and wolves. Taken together, their tales form a colorful mosaic of the Jewish storytelling tradition.
Sheldon Oberman, a master storyteller, retells the tales with simplicity and grace, making them perfect for performing and reading aloud. Peninnah Schram, herself and acclaimed storyteller and folklorist, provides lively commentary that examines the meaning of each tale and its place in history. These enduring stories entertain us today just as they entertained people who heard them told centuries ago.
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