John Henry Audiobook By Julius Lester, Jerry Pinkney cover art

John Henry

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John Henry

By: Julius Lester, Jerry Pinkney
Narrated by: Samuel L. Jackson
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Based on the famous African American folk ballad John Henry, this story tells of the legendary contest to the death between a spirited young man with a hammer and a steam drill to build a tunnel through the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia.

©1994 Dial (P)1998 Weston Woods Black & African American Fairy Tales, Folk Tales & Myths Fiction Historical Fiction Literature & Fiction Multicultural Stories

Critic reviews

  • ALA Notable Recording

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My 4 y/o twins love this story and both the audio and printed book versions. My older sons,now 21 and 19 abd in college enhoyed the book as well when they were toddlers. Thanks!

My little ones love jacooooootci line and LOL

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The story of John Henry is always been one of my favorites. But usually, it is only the last portion that we are familiar with. The contest between man and machine.

This recording by Samuel L Jackson brings the rest of John Henry's story to life. Highly recommended.

More than just a steel drivin man

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What did you like about this audiobook?

short but sweet, I am an adult however I was still drawn in to listen to the full book.

How has the book increased your interest in the subject matter?

John Henry he is a very simple character but one that sets a good example.

Does the author present information in a way that is interesting and insightful, and if so, how does he achieve this?

everything was excellent

Do you have any additional comments?

no

Good Narrator

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