The Caribbean Story Finder : A Guide to 438 Tales from 24 Nations and Territories, Listing Subjects and Sources

The Caribbean islands have a vibrant oral folklore. In Jamaica, the clever spider Anansi, who outsmarts stronger animals, is a symbol of triumph by the weak over the powerful. The fables of the foolish Juan Bobo, who tries to bring milk home in a burlap bag, illustrate facets of traditional Puerto Rican life. Conflict over status, identity and power is a recurring theme--in a story from Trinidad, a young bull, raised by his mother in secret, challenges his tyrannical father who has killed all the other males in the herd. One in a series of folklore reference guides by the author, this volume shares summaries of 438 tales--some in danger of disappearing--retold in English and Creole from West African, European, and slave indigenous cultures in 24 countries and territories. Tales are grouped in themed sections with a detailed subject index and extensive links to online sources. I. Musical Tales (Stories 1-18) II. Winning and Losing with Gods and Spirits (Stories 19-75) III. Seeking Justice (Stories 76-116) IV. Be Careful: Beautiful ƯShape-shifters, ƯLoup-garous, Devils, Zombies, and Other Supernatural Dangers (Stories 117-174) V. Tearful Love and Playful Courtship (Stories 175-205) VI. Goodness: Kindness and Friendship (Stories 206-225) VII. Powers That Be in the Community: The Weak and the Strong, Yearnings, Teachers, Clever Thinkers, and Characters (Stories 226-310) VIII. Tricksters: Besting the Bully and Schemes for Survival (Stories 311-362) IX. Tricksters Getting Tricked (Stories 363-385) X. Fools: Hopeful Expectations and Surprising Successes ... XI. Magical Rescues and Escapes (Stories 410-438). "The Caribbean islands have a vibrant oral folklore. In Jamaica, the clever spider Anansi, who outsmarts stronger animals, is a symbol of triumph by the weak. Conflict over status, identity and power is a theme across the island nations. This volume summaries 438 tales retold in English and Creole from West African, European, and slave indigenous cultures"-- Provided by publisher