Anansi the Spider: A Tale from the Ashanti

I am a big fan of the Anansi tales, and the spider's adventures are delightful as well as thought-provoking. For edutainment (educational entertainment) and discussion, I include them in my high school / college level introduction to mythology / humanities survey courses. All ages can enjoy a clever trickster hero who possesses many human qualities, the good and bad--who makes us think about our own deeds and behavior. In Anansi The Spider: A Tale from the Ashanti, Gerald McDermott retells an Anansi story with warmth, cultural sensitivity, and bright, attention-seizing illustrations. Among the children's books about Anansi, McDermott's efforts stand in a unique place because the text is used sparingly and with great effect, conveying important events only and not burying key ideas in lavish descriptions or dialogues. In this book, the elaborate, geometric illustrations paint the "descriptions" that the text omits. Features that I like... The map in the opening that shows the continent of Africa and the country of Ghana. (I'm always happy to see a bit of geography dropped into stories, especially those designed for children.) The Prologue, which describes the importance of folklore, mythology, and legends. I especially appreciate this statement: "Folklore prepares man for adult life. It places him within his culture." Rather than beginning the story with the familiar "Once upon a time...," the author uses "Time was..." which is cool! :) Each of the spider sons in the story is unique in design, appearance, and talent, which makes him easy (and fun) to identify as the tale unfolds. The six sons are See Trouble, Road Builder, River Drinker, Game Skinner, Stone Thrower, and Cushions. The character of Anansi is rendered with an expressive personality and face while his sons' faces are not shown--just their designs, bodies, and talents. Anansi's face changes emotions based on his experiences, and this would be an excellent teaching element for very young children upon hearing / seeing the story. Themes & Talking Points the book offers: Counting, colors, shapes, animals, teamwork, family, intro to Africa [Very Young Children] Reading; Cause & Effect; Critical Thinking & Response; African Culture. How does Anansi get into and out of trouble? // Each spider is an individual with a specific skill or trait; each spider has a place in the family. What does this suggest about the culture of the Ashanti? // The rescue of Anansi is really a team effort by the sons, but who should get the reward? Does the ending solve this problem? [For children 5-12] Reading & Design; Symbolism; Critical Analysis; Author Intent; Culture. Why did the author / illustrator choose not to show the faces of the six sons in the story? How does this choice affect the story? How does Anansi's face tell his story? What is the relationship between a son's name and his unique design? In what instances is Anansi's face NOT shown and why? What lessons are taught in this tale? What universal themes are present? Does this book deserve its "honor" designation? [For tweens through college students]

A simple yet engaging book with beautiful and bright illustrations. The story is about how a “Spider” was rescued by his sons. My daughter is 22 months old and she jumped on this book when I opened it. I wish there was a board book option though.

This was a book my Mom would read to my brothers and I growing up. I remember the bright colors and it was fun story. I recently bought for clients who just had a baby and I can't wait to share it with them!

Ordered this for an extra baby shower requested gift. I know it's not for newborn/toddler age but, I used to read to my girls, now 30 & 31. They loved this book read by me with an accent and a bit of improv. Definitely one of our good family memories!

My husband reads this book yo our son. It’s a story we both grew up with.

I ordered this book for my mom (teacher). her aftercare students loved this book so much that she wanted a copy for her class. they will be making puppets to go along with the story.

child loved it. Great learning experience.

The art was amazing! I love reading this story to my kiddos. It helps that we have little discussions do they can break down complex ideas and develop critical thinking skills.