Haunted Bayou and Other Cajun Ghost Stories
Grade 4 Up-This title, along with Reneaux's Cajun Folktales (August House, 1992), fills a definite void in American folk literature. It includes 10 original stories based on family tales and interwoven with fragments of Cajun folklore, as well as three traditional tales that appeared in Reneaux's first book and on her award-winning tape, Cajun Ghost Stories (August House, 1992). She introduces the selections with a succinct summary of the area's history and its ghosts, and ends with a glossary of Cajun expressions. On the whole, the material serves to illuminate the rich and colorful culture of the Louisiana bayous. Three tales are particularly appealing and well crafted, and have satisfying endings-"Why Onions Make Us Cry" (a pourquoi story), "Madam Longfingers" (a sort of swamp rendition of "Little Eight John"), and "The Spirit That Would Not Be Tamed." A few of the others lack tension and suspense. In some cases, the interjection of Cajun phrases disturbs the rhythm and flow of the narrative. One in particular, "for true," is grossly overworked. In general, however, this title is entertaining, informative, and worth purchasing, although it's not quite as good as its predecessor.Judy Constantinides, East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LACopyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.