Tales of Wonder: Traditional Native American Stories for Children

"The story only lives when it is being told; if it isn't being told, the story dies. These are good stories. Remember them," storyteller Gregg Howard gently admonishes. Indeed this wonderful handful of "why?" stories, drawn primarily from the Cherokee tradition are memorable--from the explanation of the origin of the Pleiades to the story of the discovery of popcorn. Howard, wearing traditional 18th century style Cherokee dress, introduces the Cherokee storytelling tradition, explains his costume and demonstrates how sage and sweetgrass are burned to bless the storytellers and their musical instruments. Flutist and drummer Nash Hernandez provides a rich audio atmosphere throughout, improvising music to keep harmony with the tone of the stories; and Kathleen Raymond Roan's sketches add visual appeal. Of course, nothing compares with the magic of having a storyteller before you in person, but this video is the next best thing. Highly recommended. Aud: K, E, I, P. (R. Reagan)