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teriboop's review against another edition
3.0
Most people have heard of the old folktale The Wonderful Tar Baby. It is the most iconic of the old Uncle Remus stories that have their roots in African American folklore. Wagner deconstructs the story while comparing it to twelve other similar stories from various regions around the world. Since its publication by Joel Chandler Harris in 1880, The Wonderful Tar Baby Story's origins have been wrapped in controversy. Many ethnic and regional people have laid claim to stories that are nearly identical. Besides delving into the origin controversy, Wagner looks at the political and cultural implications of the story.
Very thorough. I wonder how the author came across some of these stories. It's obvious that he's done his research. It's not a riveting book, but if you are interested in folklore, especially African American folklore, this is a great microhistory to read.
Very thorough. I wonder how the author came across some of these stories. It's obvious that he's done his research. It's not a riveting book, but if you are interested in folklore, especially African American folklore, this is a great microhistory to read.
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