MACAW BECOMES A RAINBOW: Three South American Indian Folktales
by Jonathan E. ReymanPublish: Mar 14, 2023Children'sBook Overview
Synopsis:In the heart of the Ecuadorian and Brazilian rainforests in 1967, amidst ethnographic fieldwork, three captivating South American folktales unfolded, each narrating the enchanting interactions between humans and the vibrant bird species inhabiting these lush landscapes. The stories center around the Scarlet Macaw, the Amazon Parrot, and the Hyacinth Macaw, highlighting their intelligence, stunning flight, and sometimes humorous antics.
The presence of plantain and banana trees, introduced from Africa, and the native maize (corn) in the tales weaves a narrative that mirrors the rich biodiversity and cultural amalgamation in these rainforests. The illustrations by the late Wayne E. Smyth complement the narratives, capturing the vivid hues and allure of the birds.
Moreover, the bilingual nature of the book, presenting the tales in both English and Spanish side by side, serves a dual purpose. In addition to sharing these engaging stories, the book becomes a valuable tool for language learners, aiding children and young adults in the journey to acquire proficiency in both English and Spanish. As the Spanish-speaking population continues to grow in the U.S., this bilingual approach becomes even more relevant and impactful.
Key Features:
Three captivating folktales featuring the Scarlet Macaw, Amazon Parrot, and Hyacinth Macaw.
Set in the Ecuadorian and Brazilian rainforests during 1967 ethnographic fieldwork.
Illustrations by Wayne E. Smyth bring the stories and vibrant bird characters to life.
Inclusion of both English and Spanish versions side by side to facilitate language learning.
Cultural elements, including the introduction of African plants and native American maize.
