Tall Tales are humorous, exaggerated stories about a hero with superhuman abilities. These stories often feature fantastical elements and unbelievable events, told as if they were true. The purpose is to entertain through the character's extraordinary feats and the story's over-the-top nature.
Author: Kizzie Jones
Illustrator: Scott Ward
Publisher Info: Tall Tales (Second Edition, May 27, 2020)
Description: This is a very creative story explaining the origin of dachshunds. In the story, a little girl is sad because her sea creature friends are migrating for the winter. To cheer her up, they decide to create a new animal together, each contributing a unique feature. This magical beast they create is, of course, the dachshund. The story emphasizes themes of compassion, collaboration, and the magic of friendship.
Evaluation: This is a charming and imaginative tall tale that blends creativity with heartfelt themes. The story is praised for its lyrical narrative and the way it celebrates friendship, compassion, and teamwork. Vibrant illustrations enhance the whimsical tone, making it especially appealing to young readers. Overall, it’s an engaging and meaningful book that encourages creativity while delivering a positive message.
Usage: This is a great tool for elementary classrooms (k-5), supporting lessons in storytelling, character education, and science. It encourages imagination and creative writing, while also teaching values like friendship and cooperation. The story’s ocean theme can tie into marine life units, and the colorful illustrations make it ideal for read-alouds and visual literacy activities.