Storytelling Week 6: The Squirrel's Happy Ending

The Squirrel's Happy Ending

Squirrel. Source: Wikipedia

Gone.

Gone, gone, gone.

His crops, his income, his money, his future, his hopes, his dreams. All gone.

"That stupid spider," he thought to himself. "I can't believe he got away with taking my farm. How could everyone believe him?! I worked so hard for so long to get that farm to where is was. And now it's gone."

The spider, who managed to manipulate the entire town into believing that the squirrel's land was his own, was already halfway to riches. He not only stole the squirrel's farm, but also harvested all of the crops to sell.

All the squirrel had left was his family, whom he couldn't provide for anymore.

"It'll all work out, I promise," Mrs. Squirrel said.

"How could you know that for sure?" Squirrel replied.

"I don't, but we always make it work," sighed Mrs. Squirrel.

The next day, Squirrel made his way to town to look for work. On his way, he passed a large patch of land with many crops. This piqued his interest.

How had he never seen this before? He could've sworn that land to be empty just a few weeks ago.

Circling the magnificent display of crops was a crow. Squirrel waved him down to ask about the land.

"Yes, this is my field," the crow said.
"But how did you get the crops to grow so quickly?" inquired the squirrel.

"I'm not sure...it was quite odd, actually. One stormy night I found some crops on the side of the road. Once the rain passed, a strange spider came by and INSISTED they were his. But who would leave their crops out in the rain?! So I claimed them as my own and planted their seeds here," the crow explained. "It didn't take long until they were healthy and plentiful."

"WAIT...A SPIDER?!" The squirrel screeched. "Those were my crops that he stole! And I'll tell you what..he'll get these too if you're not careful...let me tell you how he got mine and show you how to prevent that from happening to you."

The squirrel explained everything to the crow and helped him to fight off the spider's attempts at his crops. Sure enough, the spider tried and tried, but the crow was prepared from the squirrel's advice.

The crow was so incredibly thankful that he let the squirrel have half of his crops, which actually made him richer than he was before. In the end, the squirrel won.

Author's Note: In the original story, the squirrel's fields get taken by the spider. The spider was a thief and stole the squirrel's hard-earned crops and went to sell them. In the end, the crops were taken by the crow because the spider left them out in the rain. This story frustrated me and made me want to tell the squirrel's story and for him to have a happy ending with wealth instead of a depressing ending with debt. The squirrel did nothing to harm or hurt the spider. The spider was just rude.

Bibliography: This story is part of the West African Folktales unit. Story source: West African Folktales by William H. Barker and Cecilia Sinclair, with drawings by Cecilia Sinclair (1917).

Reading Diary B: West African Folktales

West African Folktales

Why the Moon and the Stars Receive Their Light From the Sun

It was interesting to read how they became the moon, stars and the sun. However, I don't know how he knew that the dragon was hungry or that the fiddle would make him go back down to earth to dance. It seemed as if he had never seen a dragon before in the beginning and now he has all of the dragon knowledge. I learned that in my stories, I want there to be a clear explanation for each event and to know how one thing leads to the next.

How the Tortoise Got Its Shell

(African tortoise)

Before reading this particular week's readings, I had never seen "determined" used as an action verb, which I thought was interesting. I also found it interesting that he had to fight for the wine instead of paying for it with money- my roommates wouldn't be happy if that were the case. They would get into a lot of fights for sure. These stories also amuse me in how they turn out. I never see the ending coming on how they actually get their shell, or how the moon and stars actually get there. But I like it and it keeps me interested until the end.

How Mushrooms First Grew

How were they able to go back and make a farm without anyone punishing them for being highway robbers?
Sometimes I just need to read the story and not think too much into it.
The brothers gathering the mushrooms is also kind of scary to think about. What if they were poisonous mushrooms? But I guess someone had to try them first for people to find out they were poisonous.

Reading Diary A: West African Folktales

West African Folktales



Spider. Source: Wikimedia

How We Got the Name "Spider Tales"

I really appreciate how Nyankupon was honest and upheld his condition in the end. I also appreciate how clever Anansi was. The whole time I was thinking that there would be some sort of trick and that something would happen in the end with the creatures the spider caught, but everything turned out how Nyankupon said in the beginning. The characters were very straightforward in this, which I liked. It was also an entertaining read.

The Squirrel and the Spider

This story just made me upset for the squirrel. I'm glad the squirrel lost the crops. He never deserved them in the first place. It would be interesting to tell a story about the squirrel and give him more character development and a happy ending to his sad story.

The Grinding-Stone That Ground Flour By Itself


The spider is always so frustrating. I don't like his character. How I feel about his character is how I feel about spiders in general. His cousin was right to not be tricked by him, but the spider never listened. However, I also think it was wrong of his cousin to not try to help the rest of the village. He didn't need to profit, but to watch his friends and family starve without doing a thing was also not very attractive for a character to do.

Thoughts About Comments

The comments I liked were ones that were constructive.

It is helpful to know what I'm doing well and what I need to work on for each assignment. By commenting on more than whether or not the reader enjoyed the story, such as how the story was written, grammar, sentence structure, etc. I am able to improve weekly. By doing this, the reader makes their comments memorable.

The comments that speak to me are ones that include something more than the normal feedback. This can be something as simple as a story about themselves and how what I posted relates to their lives (this is especially true for introduction comments).

I need to be doing a better job with my comments. Mine tend to be very generic and not personal when I make them. If I structured them more like the ones I enjoy reading, I think it'll be better practice for myself and more helpful for others.

Extra Reading Diary: Arabian Nights - Reading B

Myth-Folklore Unit: Arabian Nights

This was one long story, but it was split up into multiple sections and I decided to include my favorite parts in this reading diary post.

Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp 1

Aladdin and the Magician. Source: Wikimedia

This writing style is fantastic. I like how it keeps the reader engaged and wanting to read more. I also appreciate getting to read the original story, as I have only seen the Disney version. I also like how it cuts off the story before the second part. It leaves so much suspension in the writing and for the reader's imagination.

Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp 4

This magician has a lot of spite, rage and jealousy. I like how the author truly dove into each of the characters in this story. The development is incredible and really allows the reader to get to know the characters individually and how they work together as a whole. However, this part of the story made me sad because Aladdin lost his entire life. The princess' father was absolutely married into his money and fortune, which was quite unfortunate.

Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp 6

It seems like the evil wickedness never ends. I enjoy and appreciate that the end of this story was positive and that Aladdin and his wife ended up happy and together. That's rare in a lot of the stories I have read so far, so it was nice to see that happen. Overall, I enjoyed reading this story. Though it was long, it was entertaining from beginning to end. I liked the style because it was easy to follow and to read.

Storytelling for Week 5: From the Diary of the Fox

From the Diary of the Fox

Saturday, July 3rd.

Dearest Diary,

So I had the conversation with my husband. AGAIN.

I don't think we've gone a single night without him asking me how much wit I think I have and me returning the question back at him.

I also don't think he understands what the word 'wit' means. He always says he has SO much, yet isn't even smart enough to change our kid's diapers. He makes me do it! For ALL FIVE of them!

But I really do love him. He's great company to and from our local dining place we feast at every night and he is a wonderful father. He helps clean up, does the shopping and is incredibly sweet to me.

Well, time for bed now. Maybe our conversation tomorrow will be different (HA! One can dream),

Mrs. Fox





Sunday, July 4th.



DIARY!

Okay. First, no the conversation wasn't different (shock).

HOWEVER.

We ran into a tiger tonight! Can you believe that?! In our part of town!
They aren't even supposed to be traveling near our homes.

It's a good thing this tiger wasn't very bright (but are any of them?), because my husband cowered beneath me and left me to get both of us out of trouble.

And to think - he always talks about how much wit he has. Ha.

I talked the tiger into letting us go home, which wasn't very difficult at all. I made up some story about how my husband and I didn't know how to divide our children between us. If I got two and he got three or vice versa. I asked the tiger to meet our children and help us decide. And the tiger BELIEVED IT! How lucky.

We got back to our home and my nice, courageous husband fled to the door without me. I was left alone with a tiger.

Alone.
With a tiger.
Thanks, Mr. Fox.

Lucky for me I had my wit with me and convinced the tiger to let me step inside for a bit and made absolutely sure not to turn my back on him.

Once I got inside, it was all over. The tiger could never fit through our door (though he sure tried)!

From now on I will NEVER let my husband say he's courageous or full of wit. Though he is full of something.

Until next time (because Lord knows there will be a next time),

Mrs. Fox

Foxes. Source: Wikimedia

Author's Note:
In the original story, a fox and his wife travel to find food every night. On their way back, they have the same conversation in which the wife says she doesn't have much wit and the husband says he has plentiful. One night, they were faced with a tiger. The husband cowered and showed no wit, while the wife's wit saved both of their lives and their five children. In the end, not one of them was eaten and the tiger left frustrated.
This story was my inspiration because I truly adored Mrs. Fox's character. She had wit but did not brag about it. She saved her family's lives and she put up with her boastful and cowardly husband.
I chose this writing style because I have used the same one for each of the past week and wanted to try something new. I plan on using the diary style for some of my storybook and wanted to test it out here first.
I picked this image because it is exactly how I imagined Mrs. Fox and her husband looking. Mrs. Fox is on top, looking annoyed, and her husband is cowering beneath her as the original story describes.

Bibliography: 
Folklore of the Santal Parganas by Cecil Henry Bompas (1909).

Reading Diary B: Santal Folklore

Reading Diary B: Santal Folklore

The Tigers and the Cat
The story of how the tigers ate the raw meat was interesting. I got frustrated when the tigers blamed the cat for doing something they could've contributed to and helped out with. I also was upset when the tigers killed the dog in the end. If I were to use this as an inspiration for my story, I would change the ending. I don't appreciate how the tigers won in the end. However, I do like the writing style as it was easy to follow. The only downside was that it jumped around a bit.

A Fox and His Wife
I really like the fox's wife in this story. She has great wit but does not boast about it, even when asked. The fox, however, does and does not have a bit of wit to save their lives. She saved both of them and her children, which took a great amount of not only wit, but also courage. I want to write a story with her character in it.

Fox. Source: Wikipedia

The Brave Jackal
I included this story because I didn't really understand it at first. The writing style was confusing and I had to reread it multiple times before I even slightly comprehended it. My mind might just not be comprehending quickly or even comprehending this style, but I learned that I need to make my writing clear and concise for my readers. I want them to understand everything on the first attempt and not have to reread anything.

Reading Diary A: Santal Folklore

Reading Diary A: Santal Folklore

Ledha and the Leopard
I like this story because of the range of characters. I have mixed feelings about Ledha because he is clever, but stayed in the forest without telling anyone. I don't like his sister because it did not mention of her ever going to look for him. I don't like the leopard because he's ungrateful. However, the crow in this story is very clever, which I like. I also appreciate that Ledha went back and helped the buffaloes in the end. I don't think this story is titled well because the leopard exits the tale rather quickly. Ledha and the Buffaloes would be a better name.

The Monkey and the Girl

(Hanuman Langur Monkey)

I included this story as one of my three because of the way it was written. It's more of an example for myself of how I don't wish to write. For me, it was hard to follow, which made it hard for me to stay engaged and entertained. Also this story was really sad and strange. If I were to use this as inspiration to my own story, I would change the outcome and a lot about the original story itself.

The Jackal and the Crow

This story reminded me of the story "The Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly". I used to read that story as a child, which is why I liked this particular one. However, the jackal really irritated me, which made me dislike the story a little bit. I do appreciate that in the end he got what was coming to him. But I feel bad for all of the creatures he met in between.

Tech Tip Website / Storybook Link

Tech Tip Website
Storybook Link

https://sites.google.com/site/mlllwolves/home

Storytelling Week 4: Lil Croc's Birthday Surprise

Lil Croc's Birthday Surprise 
Once there was a crocodile who loved to throw parties. She was the best party planner in town! Other crocodiles would come from miles away just to attend the parties she put on. From New Year's to birthdays, Christmas to anniversaries, she knew how to do them all and how to do them well.

When it came time for her own son's 10th birthday, she knew she had to throw him the party of the decade. Mamma Croc would do anything in the world for her son, whom she loved so dearly.

Mamma Croc wanted this party to be a surprise for Lil Croc. He always got to attend the parties she threw, but never had one for himself. She knew he would absolutely love it.


She planned everything perfectly and precisely, down to the color of the sprinkles on the cake. Mamma Croc invited everyone; friends, family, neighbors, and even her co-workers. She wanted everyone to celebrate Lil Croc's 10th birthday!

Finally the day of the party came and all that was left to do was to distract Lil Croc while the guests arrived.

"I don't know how I'm going to do this..." Mamma Croc thought to herself.

And then an idea hit her!

She had been watching the monkeys frolic near her home for days, long enough to know that they are mischievous and clever little creatures. She would send Lil Croc after one of them.


"Lil Croc, come here!" Mamma Croc yelled.

"What is it, mom?" Lil Croc replied anxiously. He was hoping it would be a birthday surprise.

"I need you to fetch me a monkey. I am craving monkey heart and must have it," she said, trying to hide the anticipation she felt for the party.

Lil Croc thought this was a strange request, but set out to do it anyway.
He tried and tried, but the monkey was too clever for him.

Saddened and discouraged, Lil Croc returned home empty handed and worried over the disappointment he knew his mother would have for him.

Instead, Lil Croc was greeted with the biggest surprise of his life!

Banners, balloons, crocodiles, presents, food and drinks filled his home. Freshly baked cookies scented the air while everyone burst out in singing happy birthday to Lil Croc.

Happiness filled his heart as his mother came to greet him.

"I'm sorry I sent you out on an impossible mission, but I didn't know how else to get you away while I set up your party! I hope you like it," Mamma Croc said excitedly.

"Like it?! I LOVE it," Lil Croc exclaimed, "this is definitely the party of the decade."

Crocodile with balloon. Source: The Whizzer


Author's Note:
In the beginning of the original story, the mother asks the son to fetch him a monkey's heart that she can feast on. The son tries, but in the end the monkey tricks the crocodile multiple times and is never caught.

When I first read the tale, the mother's request shocked me. I wanted to believe that there was more to the mother's character than her wanting the monkey's heart to eat, so I decided to tell the backstory behind the original one. I enjoy positive stories and thought this was the best way to turn a violent tale into a happier one.

I used this story to create my own because I felt that I had the ability to make that backstory something positive, creative and fun to read.

I chose this image because of how happy, young and innocent the crocodile looks. He is holding a balloon, similar to how I would imagine Lil Croc holding a balloon at his birthday party.

I want the reader to take away a positive feeling after reading this story. I want them to see the love the mother had for her child and how she really wanted a special party for him.

Bibliography: This story is part of the Jataka Tales unit. Story source: Jataka Tales by Ellen C. Babbitt, illustrated by Ellsworth Young (1912).

Extra Reading Diary: Arabian Nights - Reading A

Myth-Folklore Unit: Arabian Nights

Arabian Nights: Scheherazade 

Scheherazade

[LIBRIVOX AUDIO]

 

I enjoyed reading this story because of the style. Not only was it easy to follow, but it was highly entertaining and vivid. The imagery was what kept me interested. I have heard this story told before, but had never read it, so it was cool to see my own imagery created in my imagination instead of someone else's. I have also seen this story depicted as a marching band show. In the summer of 2014, the Santa Clara Vanguard did a rendition of Scheherazade. You can find a short clip of this here: SCV Scheherazade.

Arabian Nights: The Merchant and the Genius 

I enjoyed this story because it made me think of what I would do if I only had a year to live. I also like how the man is so true to his word and honorable, even if it meant losing his life. I also like that these stories keep me wanting to learn more. I feel like I am the Sultan in this situation.

Arabian Nights: King of the Black Isles

 I liked this story because the town got restored to how it used to be. I did not like the enchantress because she didn't even recognize that the man she was keeping alive for a long time was not the same man in the end. And to make someone live like that is so cruel. I can't wait to read the second half for next week's extra reading.

 

 

Reading Diary B: Middle Eastern and Indian Unit

Reading Diary B: Middle Eastern and Indian Unit

Myth-Folklore Unit: Jataka Tales (Babbitt)

Jataka Tales: The Golden Goose

The end of this story made me incredibly sad. The daughters did not want to hurt the goose and knew better than their own mother. The goose was simply trying to be helpful. And for the mother to say not to trust the goose is ridiculous. The goose came out of his own will and never asked for anything, not even in the beginning.  There was nothing to trust or distrust about the situation they were in. I dislike the mother's character in this story, but truly love the goose.

Golden Goose. Source: The Untextbook

Jataka Tales: The Woodpecker and the Lion

I like this story because it's similar to the one I chose for my storybook! I like how stories can be similar across time and land, but be different at the same time. In both stories, I feel for the bird and think the other animal is a straight up jerk. But it is true; at least the bird didn't get eaten.

Jataka Tales: Beauty and Brownie

In this story, Brownie didn't learn very much. He didn't listen to his father's warning, and on top of that, he kept doing the things that were getting his herd killed. Beauty's character is much smarter in this story. I wish Brownie would have learned from his mistakes. Instead he just kept repeating them.

Reading Diary A: Middle Eastern and Indian Unit

Reading Diary A: Middle Eastern and Indian Unit

Myth-Folklore Unit: Jataka Tales (Babbitt)

Jataka Tales: The Monkey and the Crocodile

I was shocked at the beginning of this story. The heart of a monkey is a strange request for food. Also, I love how the author flat out describes the crocodile as stupid. Because that's what he is. The monkey was smart to still be on watch at the end. The crocodile was most likely not done with his antics, nor would he ever be. I adore the monkey's character, but find the crocodile to be hilarious, stupid and interesting.

Monkey and Crocodile. Source: The Untextbook

Jataka Tales: The Foolish, Timid Rabbit

Reading this story made me think of how fast rumors get started and spread. People don't think to go back to the source or even contemplate ridiculous accusations before spreading them on to the next available set of ears. Sometimes the person who starts them doesn't have all of the information themselves.

Jataka Tales: The Girl Monkey and the String of Pearls

I like the chief guard in this story. I would have never thought of something so clever. Also, how stupid of the girl monkey. And if  she was going to have to hide the pearls all of the time, what's the point in even having them?

Famous Last Words: Week 3

The Month of September

I'd like to take this week to share about something outside of school and this class.
Sometimes life and college can get hectic and it's easy to lose ourselves and to lose sight of what's truly important in life.
To me, the important things in life are never things, but people. While things are replaceable, people are not.

 

 Blood Cancer Awareness Month Logo. Source: LLS.

The month of September is blood cancer awareness month AND childhood cancer awareness month.
These two topics are extremely important in my life and I do my best to share and spread knowledge about them when I can.

Caner is an awful disease that impacts so many people each day. Even if you are not affected directly by having the disease, chances are you have either seen a loved one be affected or know of someone who has dealt with something cancer-related.

Spreading knowledge about these cancers, sharing stories and providing hope is incredibly important and valuable, especially when it comes to the children impacted by these horrible diseases. Cancer can be frightening for everyone involved. Children (and their parents) need hope and strength to fight their disease.

There has been so much done to help and further research recently. More and more children and those affected by blood cancers are able to see another day and to spend more time with their friends and families. The future is definitely bright for cancer research. Months like September help to shed light and spread awareness, which in turn helps researchers and doctors make progress in fighting these diseases.

If you would like to learn more, these sites are extremely helpful and even mention ways in which you can help! There are more ways to get involved than just simply donating money. Spreading hope and love is sometimes the best way to make an impact.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: http://www.lls.org/blood-cancer-awareness-month

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital: https://www.stjude.org/get-involved/other-ways/childhood-cancer-awareness-month.html

Wolves in Aesop's Fables: Styles Brainstorm

Wolves in Aesop's Fables: Styles Brainstorm


Topic. My Storybook will be about wolves in Aesop's Fables. The morals for the children's fables that include wolves are some of the best in the Fables and I would like to capture their essence in order to give the morals the credit and spotlight they deserve. Two stories I would like to use are The Wolf and the Kid and The Wolf and the Crane. I do not think I will have any trouble finding stories for this topic. My criteria for choosing the stories is that each story must involve a wolf in some way.

Bibliography:
1. The Wolf and the Kid.
Book Title: The Aesop for Children
Book Author: N/A (Illustrator: Milo Winter)
Year: 1919
2. The Wolf and the Crane
Book Title: The Aesop for Children
Book Author: N/A (Illustrator: Milo Winter)
Year: 1919
In general, the Untextbook is fantastic; that is where I will look for more stories.

 Image of The Aesop for Children book. Source: The Untextbook.

Possible Styles:

Frametale: I would like to style my stories in a frametale. I want to do this because I think the wolf character is very similar in all of Aesop's Fables. The character would easily be able to travel from story to story and stay the same. I could develop the wolf more this way instead of changing his persona for each story I tell.

First-Person Storytelling: This style would be very interesting to manipulate. I could either tell the stories from the wolf's point of view and/or I could tell the story from the other character's point of view looking on at the wolf. I could even write one story the first way and another story the second way. This would be a great way to develop the wolf's character and let the reader even further inside.

Children's Stories: Since I am writing my stories based on Aesop's Fables for children, writing in a children story style would simulate where the stories are originally based. This would be a nice tribute to the original story and easy for the reader to read. Using this style would easily fit with the first two as well for a nice combined style.

Diary Style: I always found diary entries to be fascinating. Growing up, I enjoyed reading books that were written in this style. It gives an inside look at the character and their thoughts. This could also be a fun way to write and for the reader to read .

Overall, I have found that I am really interested in truly developing the wolf as a character. I think I would like to combine some of these styles in order to do that to the best of my ability.

Extra Reading Diary: Aesop's Fables (Jacobs) - Reading B

Myth-Folklore Unit: Aesop's Fables (Jacobs) -Reading B

Aesop's Fables: Humans and Gods

 Jacobs 69. The Old Man and Death (Perry 60)

This story about a man calling death but not actually meaning it can relate to more than what the story was about. "We would often be sorry if our wishes were gratified," holds true in many situations. You may want a test to be postponed, but if it gets postponed, it may fall on an even busier day than originally planned. I liked this fable in particular because I struggle with this. I have a hard time looking at things from an outside perspective and don't realize what my wishes and needs actually would mean if I got them granted.

Aesop's Fables: Family and Friends

Jacobs 72. The Bundle of Sticks (Perry 53)

Bundle of sticks. Source: Wikimedia.

A bundle of sticks cannot be broken, where as individually they can. "Union gives strength." This holds true in many aspects. A group of people is much harder to break through than an individual. Working together and having people surrounding you and supporting you is much more empowering than doing everything by yourself and being lonely. Unity gives strength in nay parts of life.

Aesop's Fables: People Wise and Foolish, Part 2

Jacobs 62. The Man, the Boy, and the Donkey (Perry 721)  

This is by far the best fable I have read, because it really speaks to something I'm dealing with at the moment. "Please all, and you will please none." If you over involve yourself and try to make others happy all of the time, you will eventually reach a point that to satisfy one organization or person, you'll have to let another down. You can't always please everyone and do everything. Sometimes, there is simply not enough time in the day and people have differing opinions on things you should be doing. You can't please all, and if you try no one will end up being pleased.

Storytelling Week 3: A Mended Friendship

A Mended Friendship

Long ago, a man by the name of Adam housed a dog and a cat. The two animals, Doggie and Pussie, did not get along very well. They had quite the history. Once inseparable, the two now could not stand being in the same room together. 

One day, Adam called Doggie and Pussie into the living room.

"You have both lived here for two years. I have given you everything. Shelter, food, love, care, and more. You have lives here others can only dream of having. Yet, here we are, two years later and you both cannot function being around each other. I have served you and all I have gotten in return is bickering," Adam said. He was devastated, disappointed and tired of living with bickering animals. 

With shame, Doggie and Pussie listened to everything Adam had to say. Once he was finished, Adam left the room. It was clear that he wanted nothing to do with them the rest of the night.

"He's right, you know," Doggie sighed. He missed having his best friend by his side. His partner in crime had become but a stranger.

"Yes, but we have a lot to work on. Especially you," Pussie replied. Even though she would never admit it, her rude words masked her hurt feelings. She truly missed Doggie as well.

And so they worked at mending their friendship. Day after day they tried to fix things back to the way they were.

In the beginning, every day was a struggle. Doggie and Pussie would attempt to be in the same room as each other, but they would bicker nonstop. They could not get through a single conversation without frustration.

However, slowly but surely, they got comfortable with each other again. They could be together for small amounts of time without getting angry. Sometimes they would even have fun and laugh like they used to.

The small amounts of time grew bigger and bigger, until finally, they went an entire day without an argument.

"As much as I absolutely hate to admit it aloud, I have truly missed your friendship," Pussie sighed.
"I know. I feel the same way," Doggie replied lovingly.

At that moment, Adam came into the room.

"I am proud of you two. As tough as the process was, you mended a friendship and brought peace back into this home. Thank you," Adam said.

And so from that day forward, Doggie and Pussie lived in harmony as best friends, never to split again.

 

(etching by Hendrik Hondius)

Author's Note:

The Quarrel of the Cat and Dog

I chose this story because of how interesting the original one was to read. The Quarrel of the Cat and Dog focused on the relationship between the two and I wanted to expand upon that and give it a happier ending, which is why I wrote the story I did.

Bibliography: 

This story is part of the Jewish Fairy Tales unit. Story source: Jewish Fairy Tales and Legends by Gertrude Landa (1919).

Reading Diary B: Jewish Fairy Tales

Myth-Folklore Unit: Jewish Fairy Tales

The Sleep of 100 Years

Illustration of The Sleep of 100 Years. Source: The Untextbook.

I enjoyed this story, because in the end, Onias had the sense to leave the world he did not belong in. That would be such a difficult decision, especially surrounded by his family, but he did it anyways. He was able to see the rise of the town he so adored and see that it did not perish, even though he slept through his entire life.

King For Three Days

I really appreciate that Rashi's words came true. The 'King' (for three days) was an awful person and ruler. He got what he deserved. I don't like reading violent stories, so I didn't much care for this one at all.

The Fairy Frog

I enjoyed this story because of the kindness of Hanina and his wife. I would not have been able to keep my sanity for that long. I did not like this story because of the frog. Although he was a great character, I don't really like frogs, so an over-sized one that talks kind of freaked me out.

Reading Diary A: Jewish Fairy Tales

Myth-Folklore Unit: Jewish Fairy Tales

The Quarrel of the Cat and Dog

This story was compelling to read. I enjoyed the writing style and how it carried from one idea to the next. However, it was extremely sad to read about Doggie. In the end, I wanted Father Adam to keep the dog and let Pussie leave because of how rude she was. Pussie was an awful friend and did not deserve what she was given. Doggie was faithful and kind, but got nothing in return.

(etching by Hendrik Hondius)

From Shepherd-Boy to King 

I liked this story because of how David was saved. The deer was called to save him, and he was saved. To trust in God against an animal that would surely kill you and be extremely dangerous is a great feat. David was courageous and ready to fight and knew that he had God on his side, but instead God had a different plan for him. I also like that it is the story behind one of his Psalms.

The Beggar King

I really enjoyed this story because of the ending. The King (who began as an ungrateful, awful ruler) became kind and noble. He earned his spot as a ruler that the people deserved. He learned from his sin and helped those less fortunate. I enjoy stories with uplifting endings, and this one was definitely that. I liked the King's character development and the genie's willingness to give the throne back once he learned his lesson and became the ruler he needed to be.

Brainstorming Storybook Topics

Topic: Wolf Fables 
Comments: I really enjoyed reading the children's fables during this week's storytelling assignments. I think that it'd be interesting to really dive into the wolf stories that are featured. Wolves have always fascinated me, and I really appreciate the morals in each of the wolf fables.
Possible Stories: There are a lot of fables about wolves when I searched, even on the Untextbook! This is exciting because if I choose this topic, I will have a lot to take from and use.
Sample Story: The Wolf and the Kid - I chose this story because of the moral. "Do not let anything turn you from your purpose." This is a very wise and thought out moral that fits with the story. I love morals that can fit with my everyday life.

Bibliography Information:
Sample Story: The Wolf and the Kid.
Book Title: The Aesop for Children
Book Author: N/A (Illustrator: Milo Winter)
Year: 1919

 Image of The Aesop for Children book. Source: The Untextbook.

Topic: King Arthur
Comments: I chose King Arthur because his story has always fascinated me. From the Sword in The Stone to him in general, I have always loved reading and learning about King Arthur.
Possible Stories: Anything from the Untextbook unit about King Arthur. This has information and stories about his background, himself, and his life in general. There is a lot to choose and use from this unit and leaves a lot of options open for my storybook.

Sample Story: King Arthur: The Sword Excalibur. I like this story because it talks about the sword and the scabbard.  It is also an interesting look on Merlin and Arthur's relationship.

Bibliography Information:
Sample Story: King Arthur: The Sword Excalibur.
Book Title: King Arthur: Tales of the Round Table
Book Author: Andrew Lang, illustrated by H. J. Ford
Year: 1902


Topic: Celtic Fairy Tales
Comments: Fairy tales have always interested me. I would love getting to search and research more into them and what and how many different types there are.
Possible Stories: Anything from the Untextbook. There are a lot of stories to read and take from, especially in the Celtic Fairy Tales unit.
Sample Story: The Tale of Ivan. I really enjoyed the happy ending to this story and how captivating it was to read. Ivan slipping out of trouble because of the advice and in the end, receiving the advice and the money was wonderful. I would love to incorporate this and other happy tales into my storybook.
Bibliography Information:
Sample Story: The Tale of Ivan.
Book Title: Celtic Fairy Tales
Book Author: Joseph Jacobs with illustrations by John D. Batten
Year: 1892

Topic: Disney-related Stories
Comments: I love everything Disney! Since I was a child, I was always fascinated with the stories and the magic behind them. It would be interesting to dive into the stories that inspired them to be as we know them today.
Possible Stories: They are mostly from the Untextbook, but there are a plethora. Snow White and Rose Red from the Brothers Grimm (Hunt) unit, Rumpelstiltskin from the Brothers Grimm (Ashliman) unit, and many more.
Sample Story: Rapunzel. I chose this story because I remember it being read to me as a child. I also enjoy the recreations that Disney has made over the past 20-30 years.

Bibliography Information:
Sample Story: Rapunzel.
Book Title: Fairy Tales by the Brothers Grimm
Book Author: Translated by Edgar Taylor and Marian Edwardes, with illustrations by R. Anning Bell
Year: 1912

Extra Reading Diary: Aesop's Fables (Jacobs)

Myth-Folklore Unit: Aesop's Fables (Jacobs)

Jacobs 38. The Fox and the Cat (Perry 605): This fable's theme was: "Better one safe way than a hundred on which you cannot recon." It is better to go with the way you trust and know that works then spend time debating how to deal with a situation. Just because you have many different ways, does not mean that they are better. Sometimes the simple way is the best way.







Jacobs 11. The Lion and the Mouse (Perry 150): "Little friends may prove great friends." I liked this fable because I had heard the story growing up. I also appreciate the message. No matter what your size, how little you think you are (mentally or physically), you can always be a great friend and help those around you. It is always important to help others and be a great friend, no matter who you are. We all need a friend sometimes, too.

 Trapped lion. Source: Wikimedia.

Crane 54. The Hares and The Frogs (Perry 138):"Our own are not the only troubles." This means a lot to me, because I strongly believe and know that everyone has a story. Everyone has their struggles and what holds them back in certain situations and in life. Everyone goes through tough times, mentally, physically, or both.

Storytelling for Week 2: A Mother's Love

 A Mother's Love

One day, late in the summer, a group of monkeys gathered to celebrate the birth of the newest addition to their family; baby Justin. There was much joy, love and partying, but no one's excitement compared to that of Mother Monkey's. Everyone at the gathering could feel the amount of love Mother Monkey had for her son. She thought he was the absolute prettiest, sweetest, dearest darling in the entire world. Her affection showed through everything she did. From her holding him, to bathing him, to simply being around him. Mother Monkey never let baby Justin out of her sight.

A few weeks after baby Justin's birth, Mother Monkey went to town to get her family bananas. While in town, she stopped to talk with her best friend, Tina.

"Have you heard about the contest Jupiter is holding?" Tina asked.
"No...what are you talking about?" Mother Monkey inquired.
"Jupiter is awarding a prize for a baby show," Tina replied.
"Oh, I must enter! Justin will win for sure," Mother Monkey declared.

With that, Mother Monkey began planning her trip to the competition. She absolutely adored her baby and knew the rest of the world would, too.


"Jupiter will be so impressed by baby Justin," Mother Monkey said to herself.

The day of the contest finally came. Mother Monkey and Justin made the long trek out to the city very early that morning. Mother Monkey was so excited that she could not wait any longer to leave. They were the first to arrive, getting there 2 hours earlier than any other contestant.

As others started arriving, Mother Monkey noticed how the other contestants were looking at her dear baby Justin. They were laughing ad giggling. Pointing and gawking.
"Surely that's not at my baby," Mother Monkey thought to herself.

Just then, she overheard the other parents talking.
"How ugly!" One exclaimed.
"Agreed. That baby has such a flat-nose," another said.
"He's such a hairless, pop-eyed little creature," chimed in another.

Mother Monkey was hurt. How could someone treat young Justin in such a way? She had had enough. Mother Monkey turned around, looked the parents straight in they eye and said, "Laugh if you will. Though Jupiter may not give him the prize, I know that he is the prettiest, the sweetest, the dearest darling in the world."

The other parents quickly shut their mouths and walked away embarrassed. Though baby Justin did not win the prize from Jupiter, he would always have his mother's love.

Monkey and his mother. Source: Wikimedia.

Author's Note:
Jupiter and the Monkey
My main goal for this story was to show the mother's blind and absolute love for her son. My mother loves me unconditionally, which is why I became attached to this story and wanted to write about it. I changed the original to create my own version by expanding the original story. I also added the unconditional love to the story. I feel as though the original story only had blind love and not unconditional love, but sometimes they go hand in hand.

Bibliography:
This story is part of the Aesop (Winter) unit. Story source: The Aesop for Children, with illustrations by Milo Winter (1919).

Reading Diary B: Aesop for Children (Winter)

Myth-Folklore Unit: Aesop for Children (Winter)

The Fox and the Leopard: I like the fox in this story. Even though his looks might not measure up to the leopard's, he is still smart and witty. Personality can add to the level of attractiveness, while being smug and cocky can detract from it. This story has a great theme and lesson; to never judge a book by its cover and "a fine coat is not always an indication of an attractive mind." The leopard was rude and snarky, even though he was beautiful, which was unfortunate for himself.

Image of the Fox and the Leopard. Source: The Untextbook.

The Wolf and the Shepard: This story is interesting because it shows how hypocritical man can be. I saw a quote recently that said something along the lines of we hold others to a high standard with little to no slack and give ourselves the benefit of the doubt. I see myself doing this from time to time. Being hypocritical is extremely disrespectful and frustrating, but it is something that is also difficult to battle. This story perfectly exemplifies this behavior.

Jupiter and the Monkey: This story was important to me because my mom is one of my best friends and I know that she'd do the same for me. I love how unconditional the mother's love is, no matter how others are acting toward her baby. The mother is a very likeable character that displays copious amounts of affection and love.

Reading Diary A: Aesop for Children (Winter)

Myth-Folklore Unit: Aesop for Children (Winter)

The Wolf and the Kid: I enjoyed this one because I did not understand the point until the end. The phrase, "Do not let anything turn you from your purpose" spoke to me and it made me think of what that meant in regards to the story. Instead of the story being focused on the Kid who thought he was grown up and mature when he was not, it focused on the wolf and his desire to eat the Kid. Though it was a little morbid, I appreciate the overall message.

The Wolf and His Shadow: I thought about the growth mindset during this story. How you can always grow and always get better and not to let where you are now stop you from that. I think that the wolf allowed himself to think he could not get bigger or better, when in reality he needed to in order to survive. Just like how we as humans need to keep growing and evolving our mental and physical capacities throughout life.

The Wolf and His Shadow. Source: The Untextbook.

The Dog and His Master's Dinner: I like the phrase, "do not stop to argue with temptation," because that is what I fight with every day. Temptation is something that is hard for me to deal with and difficult for me to resist and after reading this story, I realized that it is because I stop and let myself argue with it. I like how the dog in the story would faithfully carry the dinner and protect it.