Wholesome Heroes with Rick Sowash: Johnny Appleseed

Amiable storyteller Rick Sowash hosts this look at the life and legend of John Chapman, better known in American folklore as “Johnny Appleseed.” A wandering pioneer man who planted apples wherever he roamed, Johnny Appleseed was part preacher, part veterinarian, part farmer, and definitely all-American. Although apples are just one of many fruits available year-round today, the orchards that Chapman planted during the 19th century were a nutrition lifeline for the first white settlers. Speaking directly to viewers, Sowash draws numerous connections between past and present, while making the character of Appleseed come alive through a combination of actual history, tall tales, and the recitation of poems celebrating his deeds. While the program also features some dramatic reenactments, historical documents, and a few interstitial segments with kids, the bulk of the show is carried by Sowash—in costume—who is a fine storyteller. DVD extras include PDF discussion questions, coloring pages, and the script. Recommended. Aud: E, P. (E. Gieschen)