FIRESIDE TALES More Lessons From the Animal People

These gentle, thought-provoking Native American tales, which would traditionally be told to the next generation by an elder, conjure the creatures of the natural world: You will learn why the goldfinch is such a sunny color, why chipmunks have stripes, and why there are bats. Sickles gives each animal its own unique voice and personality; her stuttering rabbit, screeching squirrel, and gruff bear are marvelously and humorously imagined. Sickles is blessed with a wonderful voice--warm and wise--and it transforms beautifully into the voices of the animals she creates. These stories, complemented by songs featuring the water drums and singing talents of Sickles's husband, will be enjoyed again and again by your whole family. J.C.G.
(c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 04]