Sweet Land of Story

NCSS/CBC Notable Children's Trade Book in the Field of Social StudiesThis unique collection of American stories from the frozen tundra of Alaska to the lush green hills of Virginia; from the sweltering bayous of Louisiana to the windswept prairies of South Dakota is told in DeSpain's signature gentle style. Every reader will find something of interest - the stories range from practical tales of wisdom such as "Pulling the Rope" to silly and scary ones such as "The Haint that Roared" and "The Big, Smelly, Hairy Toe."The stories' represent not only the geographic diversity of the United States but also offer a portrait of our nation's character, values, beliefs, and customs that differ from region to region yet retain a fundamental sense of shared community. These American folktales will teach readers the importance of fairness, responsibility and trustworthiness.

Author: Pleasant DeSpain
Publisher: August House Publishers
Published: 12/15/2005
Pages: 176
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.51lbs
Size: 8.48h x 5.45w x 0.53d
ISBN: 9780874836004

Accelerated Reader:
Reading Level: 4.7
Point Value: 4
Interest Level: Middle Grade
Quiz #/Name: 60010 / Sweet Land of Story: Thirty-Six American Tales to Tell


Review Citation(s):
School Library Journal 12/01/2000 pg. 157
Hornbook Guide to Children 01/01/2001 pg. 342 - Recommended, Satisfactory
Hornbook Guide to Children 07/01/2001 pg. 342 - Recommended, Satisfactory
Booklist 12/15/2000 pg. 812

About the Author
Pleasant DeSpain Bio: Pleasant DeSpain has a most unusual but true name and an equally unusual but true profession - writer and storyteller. He travels the world collecting, researching, writing and retelling traditional tales from native cultures. Born in Colorado, he wrote his first original story at age eight. It was published as "The Mystery Artist" in 1996. Pleasant taught speech-literature-drama for six years at three universities, and wrote-produced-hosted an award-winning TV show called "Pleasant Journeys" on KING TV, Seattle. Now, the author of eighteen award-winning, multicultural story collections and picture books, published by August House, has a home in Troy, NY and frequently travels to spend extended periods of time in Thailand. Pleasant continues to travel the world having amazing adventures. While living in Thailand he has continued to collect more stories and is working on a new book.