For Older Readers
The World of Asian Stories
Exciting new resource features a story from every Asian country, with cultural background notes, Asian storytelling techniques, and varied follow-up activities. The fine drawings of Uma Krishnaswami complement the text in this treasure for readers ten years and up. $10.00; part of profits go to support rural development projects in India. Available by order form or from Tulika.
Asian Tales and Tellers
“An excellent, sourcebook for storytellers, this collection offers tales that are humorous, witty, poignant, and scary, all related in a vivacious style.”School Library Journal (selected for S.L.J. collection)
“A wonderful resource for an Asian unit, this book would serve as a read-aloud, a supplemental reading book, or as a rich resource to assign students stories to be told or acted out in skits.” Book Report
“A rich starting point for researching Asian folktales; the retellings are succinct and sharp. ” Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
A wide, new selection of tales from across Asia is offered in this award-winning book. Profiles of Asian tellers and details of various Asian storytelling styles complement the stories, which are divided into themes found in the region and accompanied by notes and resources. Available in paperback ($14. 95) and hardcover ($24.95). Order from August House
Jasmine and Coconuts
“A book that sets a gold standard for education in a specific culture, Jasmine and Coconuts is an ideal resource for anyone who seeks an introduction to the culture of southern India. This sensitively written, attractively illustrated volume- a quality production from the World Folklore Series of Libraries Unlimited- is a real treasure, and receives my highest recommendation. Skipping Stones
Explore the rich culture of South India in this collaboration by Cathy and husband, Paramasivam. Over forty stories are grouped by important themes in South India. Background on the culture and the storytelling styles, along with a festival calendar and resource section complete this award-winning book for readers eight and up. $35.00. To order:Libraries Unlimited
Terrific Trickster Tales from Asia
“Spagnoli has created a terrific book for use by media specialists and teachers, with helpful tips, tools and techniques for storytelling as an art. Each tale is unique and entertaining ...Although the tales are Asian, they are universally effective. Her selections and suggestions for storytelling will add confidence to the most inhibited would-be storyteller. This is a professional resource bargain. Highly recommended. The Book Report
A recent addition to our store of trickster tales, this book presents Asian tricksters known and new. Twenty tales with notes, telling tips, follow-up activities, and related resources are shared. Sections for both teachers and middle school students also give basic storytelling instruction. $15.95 from Upstart Books.
The World of Indian Stories
Cathy's newest book is an exciting introduction to Indian storytelling. It features a story from each Indian state, accompanied by background information and follow-up activities. Hints on telling the stories using Indian techniques and a rich resource list help the reader to delve deeper into one of the world's richest storytelling lands. $8.00; part of profits go to support rural development projects in India. Available by order form or from Tulika Press.
Treasury of Asian Stories
“Spagnoli lays out fine suggestions for activities and further reading. In addition, the well-organized introduction gives suggestions for how to set the stage for an Asian story and provides coaching tips for improving the storytelling performance.” Vashon Beachcomber
This ready-to-tell collection of twenty Asian tales, each with a follow-up activity to use with listeners 4 - 8 years, will help old and young tellers. Activities include songs, simple craft projects, riddles, rhymes, and more. Now out of print but available in limited quantity from Cathy.
Telling Tales from Asia
“...lives up to its aim of offering valuable tips on finding, learning and shaping Asian tales. It shows an amateur how to become an expert at the art.” The Hindu
Published by South Indian Tulika Press, this useful book offers storytelling tools for beginning tellers, with a focus on Asian storytelling techniques. A section of ready-to-tell Asian tales and illustrations by Indian children complete the book. $5.00; part of profits go to support rural development projects in India. Available by order form or from Tulika Press.
