John Henry - Julius Lester and Illustrated by Jerry Pickney

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John Henry - Julius Lester Illustrated by: Jerry Pickney

Bibliography: 

Lester, J., & Pinkney, J. (2009). John Henry. Paw Prints.

Plot Summary: 

Retells the legend of the African-American railroad builder who raced against a steam drill to cut through a mountain.

Critical Analysis:

Julius Lester’s “John Henry” is a tall tale that tells the story of African American folk hero John Henry. The most prominent rhetorical device Lester employs in his tale is the use of hyperbole to over exaggerate the great accomplishments of the esteemed legend John Henry. In addition to his of hyperbole, Lester makes use of personification, repetition, alliteration, and onomatopoeia to enhance the story of John Henry.

I think this historical tall tale would be a great read in the classroom and could be used as an introduction to more complex rhetorical devices, as there is quite a lot going on in this story. Additionally, I think this could be used to supplement an American history lesson. Not only can “John Henry” be used to teach content, but it can also be used to challenge children to identify the moral of the tale and then make generalizations about society.

Pinkney's illustrations are wonderful, really couldn't ask for a better treatment of John Henry. I love that there are some notes at the beginning about the origin of the story and the source materials used that way older readers can read more if they so choose.

“John Henry” would be a perfect book for upper elementary students, as it can initiate dialogue about complex issues in a way that is appropriate and respectful.

Review Excerpts:

Booklist (starred review)

This is a tall tale and heroic myth, a celebration of the human spirit . . . The story is told with rhythm and wit, humor and exaggeration, and with a heart-catching immediacy that connects the human and the natural world. 

School Library Journal

Another winning collaboration from the master storyteller and gifted artist of Tales of Uncle Remus fame.

Publisher's Weekly

A great American hero comes fully to life in this epic retelling filled with glorious, detailed watercolors . . .  This carefully crafted updating begs to be read aloud for its rich, rhythmic storytelling flow, and the suitably oversize illustrations amplify the text.

Connections:

Cultural Representation Reflection - John Henry

Scholastic Study Guide with other Folktale options.

African American Folklore

Book Reading narrated by Samuel L. Jackson