Anansi and the Moss-Covered Rock by Eric Kimmel is a playful and clever retelling of a traditional West African folktale featuring the trickster spider, Anansi. The story follows Anansi as he discovers a mysterious moss-covered rock with magical powers to make anyone who says certain words fall unconscious. Using this knowledge, Anansi tricks the animals of the jungle, stealing their food when they are incapacitated.
What stands out most in this tale is the character of Anansi, a mischievous yet clever figure who uses his wits to outsmart others for his personal gain. Kimmel brings the trickster figure to life in an entertaining and engaging way, while Janet Stevens’ vibrant and expressive illustrations add a layer of charm to the jungle setting and its inhabitants.
The repetition in the story, where Anansi continuously tricks each animal, builds anticipation, making it an ideal read-aloud for young children. The narrative encourages active participation, as readers can predict the inevitable moment when Anansi will say the magic words, causing his victim to fall over.
In the end, however, the trickster gets a taste of his own medicine when Little Bush Deer cleverly outwits Anansi, restoring balance and teaching him a lesson about greed. This twist at the end adds depth to the moral of the story, reinforcing the idea that deceit and selfishness will eventually lead to one’s downfall.
What I love about this folktale is how it introduces young readers to Anansi’s rich cultural heritage, combining humor with valuable lessons about honesty, humility, and the consequences of trickery. It serves as a great conversation starter about fairness and the importance of treating others kindly.
Overall, Anansi and the Moss-Covered Rock is a delightful, lively, and educational read that captures the essence of traditional storytelling while delivering an enjoyable experience for readers of all ages.
Questions to ask while reading:
- Was it right for the animals to take back the food stolen from him?
- Why is stealing wrong? If it does not hurt anyone, is it still wrong?
- Can you think of a time when you had to admit you were wrong, like Anansi did at the end of the story?