The Storycrafters: Apples, Corn & Pumpkin Seeds

Master Storytellers Jeri Burns and Barry Marshall are familiar to Youth Services Librarians in New York State's Hudson River Valley, having brought their program to area libraries. Here, an audience gathers around the fireside of the Mohonk Mountain House to enjoy an old fashioned evening of tales of fall harvests and Halloween. Using a tandem storytelling technique, the "storycrafters" share folk tales from around the world, including "The Singing Goose," "A Creepy Caller," "Oh Dunday!" and "The Squeaky Door." Viewer participation is encouraged through song and movement. While essentially a taped live performance, the video includes an introduction showing viewers how to make their own drums so they can play along. Well paced and smartly produced, this is warmly recommended. A second title, Ladder to the Moon, is also available. Aud: K, E, P. (C. Dratch-Kovler)