Anansi the Spider: A Tale from the Ashanti by Gerald McDermott

Summary: 

In this traditional Ashanti tale, Anansi sets out on a long, difficult journey. Threatened by Fish and Falcon, he is saved from terrible fates by his sons. But which of his sons should Anansi reward? Calling upon Nyame, the God of All Things, Anansi solves his predicament in a touching and highly resourceful fashion.In adapting this popular folktale, Gerald McDermott merges the old with the new, combining bold, rich color with traditional African design motifs and authentic Ashanti language rhythms

Genre: Folklore
The language echoes spoken language with a modern feel to it; but the story still reflects the cultural integrity of early retellings.

Activities: 

CREATE A SPECIAL NAME
Encourage children to recall each son's name and his special talent. Then invite children to create names for themselves that reflect a talent they have. Have children make a name tag by writing the letters for the sounds they know in the name. They can draw a picture or a design to illustrate the name.Children can wear their name tags around their necks, displaying their talents just as the designs on Anansi's sons show their skills.


Response Questions: 

What were some of the problems Anansi had on his journey?
How do the sons help Anansi? What would you do?
What did the spider sons learn from helping their father?
What lesson did you learn from this story? What did you learn about the Ashanti people?




About the Author: 
Caldecott Medalist Gerald McDermott's illustrated books and animated films have brought him international recognition. He is highly regarded for his culturally diverse works inspired by traditional African and Japanese folktales, hero tales of the Pueblos, and the archetypal mythology of Egypt, Greece, and Rome. It was his fascination with the imagery of African folklore that led him to the story of Anansi the Spider. McDermott was born in Detroit, Michigan.

Personal Response: 
I loved this tale, especially the illustrations. The pictures were so vibrant and attractive and the story line was interesting. I like how he combined the folklore with a more modern feel.

Citation: 
McDermott, G. (1987). Anansi the spider: A tale from the ashanti. New York: Henry Holt and Company.