Grandfather Tales

"The collector of the Jack Tales has brought new joy to children and storytellers in these twenty-four tales and a mummer's play . . . richly humorous." —School Library Journal (starred review)

"Robin Hood learns archery from the Indians, Cinderella (called Ashpet here) goes to a meeting instead of a ball, Hansel and Gretel tread a primeval wilderness. There is even a remarkable version of King Lear's story. There are others, too, of less familiar theme—tall tales of hunting and farming, as told in a Smoky Mountain cabin when old and young celebrate Old-Christmas Eve festivities. . . . A valuable book for storytellers and for readers of any age of imagination and humor." —The New York Times

"Grandfather Tales . . . collects folk stories and tall tales handed down for generations. Although many originated in England, they have taken on a distinct American flavor. Familiar backcountry characters include Sody Sallyraytus and Old Dry Frye . . . Williams's occasional pen-and-ink drawings add to the handsome package." —Publishers Weekly

"These folk tales retain the flavor of Elizabethan England in sources, names, and quality. Even the words themselves retain the flavor in words still in use which go back to old English. A large appendix gives detailed sources, variations, and other clues beloved of those in the know." —Kirkus Reviews (starred review)