Julius Lester crafts the magical tale of John Henry, the famous African American who was said to have been the strongest man ever to live. In this tale, John Henry has become legendary for his hard and diligent work in many challenges (to include making Ferret-Faced Freddy turn friendly, and quickly and easily creating a road with a hammer and boulder in hand), singing all the while.
He is eventually faced with the ultimate challenge when a gentleman comes to town to work on the Ohio Railroad and suggests the use of his new steam drill. John Henry is challenged to determine if he can out-hammer a machine. Ultimately, John Henry did beat the steam drill though it led to his death. But with his death came the lesson that it is not how you die, but how you live that matters.
While Julius Lester retells the aged legend of John Henry, he divulges it in such a way that it is as if the tale is being told for the first time. He also speaks right to the audience, composing his voice in the 2nd person, which is interpreted as a narrator or personal friend speaking directly to the audience. He is a gifted writer who evokes strong mental images through his use of detailed description and colorful imagery. He also personifies the everyday natural elements, making the setting literally come to life. This story (while a classic) has been reinvented by Julius Lester, a talented story teller who once again has brought John Henry to life.
He is eventually faced with the ultimate challenge when a gentleman comes to town to work on the Ohio Railroad and suggests the use of his new steam drill. John Henry is challenged to determine if he can out-hammer a machine. Ultimately, John Henry did beat the steam drill though it led to his death. But with his death came the lesson that it is not how you die, but how you live that matters.
While Julius Lester retells the aged legend of John Henry, he divulges it in such a way that it is as if the tale is being told for the first time. He also speaks right to the audience, composing his voice in the 2nd person, which is interpreted as a narrator or personal friend speaking directly to the audience. He is a gifted writer who evokes strong mental images through his use of detailed description and colorful imagery. He also personifies the everyday natural elements, making the setting literally come to life. This story (while a classic) has been reinvented by Julius Lester, a talented story teller who once again has brought John Henry to life.
I especially loved how this author retold a familiar story in such a way that it seems to be a totally new story. I enjoyed reading it because of it's familiarity, but also for its innovative spirit. While it is a folktale that many Americans have undoubtedly read, the text and illustrations bring it to life once again. I especially love exploring the work of authors and illustrators with young writers. They find it especially interesting when they discover the work of those that compose and illustrate for themselves (perhaps because they must illustrate their own work!). I also love including titles created and exposing minority folktales and stories passed down through generations. I find that it is almost giving a voice to the small voices that might not otherwise be heard. He is a gifted artist and storyteller whose tale would make an excellent addition to any library media center!
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