The Adventures of Molly Whuppie and Other Appalachian Folktales

Brave and brainy, trusty and true, Molly Whuppie is not about to let anyone stop her--not even a giant who is ready for a meal. Young Molly has a knack for tricking giants, and her home of Hoot Owl Holler is also filled with ogres, wise people, fools, mysterious rocks, magic fiddles and intelligent farm animals, so naturally, there are lots of adventures to be had, and Molly is ready for them all (with some help and hindrance from her beloved family). Based on traditional Appalachian and British fairy tales, this collection features retellings with the indomitable Molly, a mix of Pippi Longstocking and Jack the Giant Killer, as the main character, as well as Appalachian versions of other stories that readers will find familiar. Storyteller Shelby uses warmth, folksy humor and unexpected turns of phrase to bring this plucky heroine to life, and McArdle's childlike, black-and-white illustrations provide an additional comic touch. A nice choice for intermediate and reluctant readers. Includes a note on the origins of the tales. (Folktales. 8-12)

Copyright 2007 Kirkus Review, LLC Used with permission.

Shelby transplants folktales featuring self-assured, active heroines to Appalachian Kentucky, providing a vivid setting (farmland as "steep as a mule's face") and recasting Molly as the plucky, quick-thinking "smidgen" of a heroine. Storytellers who overlook the book's cramped layout will relish these energetic stories, which skillfully juxtapose old-fashioned flavor and modern sensibilities. Whimsical illustrations introduce each chapter.

Copyright 2008 Hornbook Guide, LLC Used with permission.

Gr 48Molly Whuppie, "being herself and no one else," has adventures previously reserved for male heroes. Way back in the woods and way back in time, Molly must protect the Queen from wicked giants and rescue her sisters with a silver needle and golden thread. She has a slingshot that can't miss and a magic fiddle that makes everyone dance. While working for a giant, she saves a boy named Jack, and they escape on the giant's own horse. She marries Jack, who trades away the cow (but not for magic beans), and sets out to find three men as foolish as her husband. Molly Whuppie grows up and grows old with bravery, cleverness, and compassion. While other folktales are included, the "Molly Whuppie" stories are the heart of the collection. Shelby has captured the language of Appalachia with "those surprising turns of phrase, so old they sound fresh again" and demonstrated the enduring strength of the oral tradition. Her adaptations are true to the traditional folktales while avoiding stereotypes, cultural prejudices, and some gory details. Young readers and listeners will make these stories their own and enjoy retelling them for a long time to come."Mary Jean Smith, Southside Elementary School, Lebanon, TN"

Copyright 2007 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

"Fall in love with childhood again! . . . Good advice from the 14 stories . . . can be used by all."
— "Courier-Journal"