Books.org participates in affiliate programs including Bookshop.org and the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you.
Synopsis
Opossum brags about his tail, but later regrets it.
Anita Barnes Lowen - Children's Literature
Today Opossum's tail is long, hairless and prehensile. But it wasn't always like that. Long ago his tail was covered with long, thick fur. "See my tail, see it shine! See my fur, it is fine!" sings Opossum as he dances around the fire. All of the animals are tired of Opossum's boasts about his wonderful tail, but Rabbit, who wants to be the most popular dancer, is angry. Is it possible to put an end to Opossum's bragging? With the help of Cricket, who knows everything about hairdressing, Rabbit comes up with a plan to end Opossum's boasting forever. And so at the next dance, Opossum's once magnificent tail, now hairless and stringy, becomes the laughingstock of all the animals. The traditional Cherokee story ends here with Opossum lying on his back with a silly grin on his face. But this author tells what happens next. With Greensnake's help, Opossum learns that his tail can be useful, not only to grab food just out of reach, but to rescue Rabbit who is being swept away by the strong river current. A part of "The Grandmother Stories" series, this tale of Opossum's tail is a delight to read. Illustrated with detailed black-and-white drawings that have the look of woodcuts, the book is perfect for sharing with younger children and an excellent choice to enrich the appropriate curriculums of elementary and middle school students. 2005, University of New Mexico Press, Ages 5 to 10.