Anansi and Company: Retold Jamaican Tales

My children and I had the good fortune of reading Anansi andCompany by Bish Denham while still in manuscript form. Anansi, the spider, is an endearing fellow, full of mischief. This is one of the reasons why children (and some adults like me) identify with him so readily. What I especially enjoyed is some of the history behind these stories, the variety (why things are, chain stories, trickery), and the riddles. The complete package is as delightful as it can be, perfect for a read-aloud.

I recently received an ARC from Bish and was surprised at the reaction of the children. When they were young, they were completely captivated by these stories, but now, older and wiser by a few years, they wanted more of the Jamaican flavor. I found myself wanting more as well, a less sanitized version. When I think back of many of the folktales my grandmother told me, they were incredibly violent. I wonder if we are raising a generation of children who cannot take any kind of grief. We want to shield them from any unpleasantness or suffering. I wonder what those consequences will be.

Bish has graciously agreed to answer some questions next month, so you can post them here. The journey, the process, retelling folktales, if she has a pet spider.

I am so proud of Bish for getting this book out into the world. I think it is a perfect introduction to Anansi for young children (ages 4-8). Well done Bish!

Congratulations!!!