Emmy Award-winning storyteller Bobby Norfolk brings his electrifying energy to this diverse collection of folktales, which come from the African, British, European, and Appalachian traditions. From Anansi, the African trickster, to Jack, the bumbling, lucky, persevering Everyman of tradition lore, Norfolk's characters instruct while they entertain.
AWARDS Parent's Choice Gold award
TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Why Mosquitoes Buzz in Peoples’ Ears (11:18)
Adapted by Norfolk from Verna Aardema's 1975 book by same title, based on a West African folktale.
2. Wicked John and the Devil (20:01)
Norfolk's version of a favorite Appalachian tale in which a wicked man with a soft heart for beggars is granted three wishes.
3. The Bremen-Town Musicians (9:38)
An adventure story in which four unwanted animals decide to become musicians.
4. Anansi and the Whipping Cord (12:30)
An adventure story in which Anansi finds a mysterious pot in the forest.
5. Jack and the Magic Beans (8:42)
An adventure story about the boy who made the beanstalk famous—including what he learned about right and wrong.
REVIEWS
Library Bookwatch
"The new line of single audio compact disc stories from August House will appeal to a wide audience; but particularly those who enjoy good stories and yarns. Humor is also a mainstay of Bobby Norfolk's style of story-telling, as Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People's Ears illustrate. His blend of world folk stories and delightful humor will appeal to those interested in traditional African tales as well as short stories in general."
KLIATT— Sunnie Grant
"With a GAWAMP! And a GALUM! And a buzz, buzz, buzz, Norfolk's persona erupts from your sound system and entertains the listener with tales from Africa, Eastern Europe, Appalachia, and Ireland. Not your traditional bedtime tales, these stories are related with gusto and a booming voice, leaving all listeners entertained and energized. The reading style is a lively example for anyone who narrates for any reason, and most particularly for library science students."
