
A parent would reach for this book when they want to instill a deep sense of pride, identity, and ancestral connection in their child. It is a vital resource for families looking to center Black girlhood and womanhood through the lens of folklore and history. The collection spans from magical fairy tales of flying women to the gritty, inspiring true stories of historical figures like Mary McLeod Bethune. Virginia Hamilton masterfully weaves themes of resilience, independence, and the power of storytelling. While the stories vary in tone, the overarching message is one of strength and self-possession. It is a perfect choice for parents of children aged 8 to 12 who are ready to move beyond simple fables into complex narratives that explore how heritage shapes the way we see ourselves today.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewSome ghosts and supernatural figures in the folklore sections may be slightly eerie.
Themes of struggle and longing for freedom are present throughout.
The book handles heavy historical realities, such as slavery and discrimination, with a direct but age-appropriate tone. The approach is realistic regarding history but hopeful in its celebration of the human spirit. Supernatural elements are handled with a respectful nod to oral tradition and folklore rather than horror.
An 11-year-old girl who is starting to ask deeper questions about her place in history or a child who loves 'rebel girl' style biographies but craves more magic, mythology, and cultural depth.
Parents should be prepared to discuss the historical context of the 'True Tales' section, particularly the obstacles these women faced. The 'Supernatural Tales' section might be a bit spooky for more sensitive readers. A child might express feeling 'small' or unseen in their daily life, or perhaps they have asked why the fairy tales they see in movies don't look like their own family.
Younger readers (age 8-9) will gravitate toward the animal fables and magic. Older readers (11-12) will better appreciate the historical significance and the sophisticated narrative voice of the true biographies.
Unlike generic folklore collections, this book specifically centers the Black female experience, blending the mythical with the historical to create a unique tapestry of identity that is both educational and enchanting.
This is a curated collection of twenty-five stories focused exclusively on African American female protagonists. It is divided into four sections: Her-Tales (animal and tall tales), Fairy Tales (magic and supernatural), Supernatural Tales (ghosts and spirits), and True Tales (biographical accounts of real women).
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.