Gullah Tales

Reviewed By Almetta Russell

http://www.knowitall.org/gullahtales/gullah/storytelling

Reviewed by Almetta Russell This website is a compilation of Gullah culture and history in words and pictures. The creation of South Carolinian, Anita Singleton-Prather, an educator-storyteller, Gullah Tales are parallel to African Tales, in that the main characters are usually animals. There are icons aplenty! Additionally, the built-in glossary within the text is a handy reference tool. Links to the web's site map offers additional information about the people and their folklore. This web page gives you storytelling and a lot more. There are several icons that define or describe the folktales, The folktales chosen for this project have been created in two formats: Flash and HTML, as well as, the software requirements. Mini renditions of "The Little Red Hen"; "The Jealous Bragging Turtle"; and "What A Friend" are the chosen tales to navigate through. Get ready to rock, pat and clap when you hear- "The Gullah Kinfolk sing "Cum Out De Weederness " (Come Out The Wilderness)"

All icons and links quickly reveal new and interesting information about the sea islanders storytelling habits and language. Making baskets and knitting fish nets are some of the crafts explored. If time permits, visitors are encouraged to participate in Gullah celebrations, as festivities are held throughout the year. Web addresses and telephone numbers are provided.

The author is the founder and a member of the musical performance group the Gullah Kinfolk. Her many credits include participating in educational documentaries, performing at the Spoleto USA international arts festival in Charleston. She has appeared in the Hollywood film Forrest Gump and on the ABC television program Good Morning America. Tales from the Land of Gullah, her one-person performance, has been broadcast on PBS.

The site map describes all aspects of Gulla history. The teacher's section includes a bibliography and k-8 classroom activities. Gullah Tales wallpaper can be downloaded free from this very resourceful site.

Aunt Pearlie-Sue is the creation of Anita Singleton-Prather, a native of the Sea Islands in Beaufort County, South Carolina. Based on her grandmother, Aunt Pearlie-Sue's character has entertained audiences with Gullah-flavored folktales for over 10 years.

In addition to being a storyteller, Prather is an educator, singer, actress and historian.