Traditional Literature Review: Anansi and the Moss-Covered Rock by Eric Kimmel

Book 3:

Traditional Literature Review: Anansi and the Moss-Covered Rock by Eric Kimmel

Bibliography

Kimmel, Eric, Retold. 1988. ANANSI AND THE MOSS-COVERED ROCK. Ill. by Janet Stevens. New York: Holiday House. ISBN  978-0-8234-0689-0

Plot Summary

Anansi and the Moss-Covered Rock retells a West African folktale about Anansi, a clever spider. In this story, Anansi discovers a magic rock that makes him faint whenever someone mentions it. He uses this to trick the other animals in the forest, stealing their food while they're unconscious. However, Anansi's schemes are noticed by a deer, who teaches him a lesson when he tries to trick her. Ntikuma reveals the truth to the other animals, who become angry at Anansi's deception. In the end, Anansi learns a valuable lesson about honesty and the consequences of his actions.

Critical Analysis

The story of "Anansi and the Moss-Covered Rock" is a classic example of a trickster tale, where the clever protagonist uses wit and scheming to outsmart others but ultimately faces the consequences of their actions. It's a timeless story that teaches lessons about honesty, integrity, and the importance of thinking before acting. In this folktale, the main character is Anansi, a spider known for his selfish and self-centered nature. Through Anansi's actions, we see a representation of selfishness, differing with the innocence and trust depicted by the other animals in the story. The theme of the story revolves around the significance of upholding values and morals. It also emphasizes the need to exercise caution in trusting individuals who may not have our best interests at heart. Anansi's deception serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the inevitable consequences of dishonesty and betrayal. Ultimately, the narrative points out the virtue of honesty and integrity, reminding readers that dishonesty will eventually lead to deserved consequences.

Review Excerpts

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “Anansi the Spider happens upon an unusual stone that magically puts him to sleep for an hour. The master trickster decides to use the rock to get the food stores from the rest of the local residents. Each animal is taken in turn to the strange moss-covered rock, says the magic phrase, and promptly falls asleep to have its food pilfered by Anansi. All the while, however, Little Bush Deer silently watches.”

Connections

Similar books:

Kimmel, Eric. ANANSI AND THE TALKING MELON. ISBN 978-0-8234-1167-2

Kimmel, Eric. ANANSI GOES FISHING. ISBN 978-0-8234-1022-4

Kimmel, Eric. ANANSI AND THE MAGIC STICK. ISBN 978-0-8234-1763-6


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