Contemporary Folklore

by Shirley Brinkerhoff

What do a tale, a joke, a fiddle tune, a quilt, a jig, a game of jacks, a country cure, and a Halloween costume all have in common? Not much, at first glance, but all these forms of human creativity are part of our cultural life and experience. They create the wide, rich collection of material we call folklore. "Folklore" means the cultural traditions that are learned and passed along by ordinary people as part of the fabric of their lives and culture. This series of volumes explores the many faces of folklore throughout the North American continent. By illuminating the many aspects of folklore in our lives, readers will gain a deeper appreciation for the richness of their cultural fabric.

1 pages, Library Binding

First published October 1, 2002

Reviews

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book provided a wonderful look at modern folklore and its place in modern life and culture. It made me look at everyday activities in a new light, and it offered many urban legends. I only wish it had been longer. Very well done.

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very succinct take on the usual urban legends. This book was really short and was concerned with summarizing why the urban legend is put in the same catagory as traditional folklore. A good basic beginning read with a few good points that I had not read before. A good reference book, but not one if you are more interested in actual stories rather than broad basics.