The Magic Orange Tree: And Other Haitian Folktales Paperback - 1997

From the rear cover

When Diane Wolkstein, herself a well-known storyteller, traveled throughout the Haitian countryside in search of stories, she harvested a rich collection of twenty-seven tales, each of which is illuminated by fascinating introductory notes. From orange trees growing at the command of a child to talking fish, these stories present us with a world of wonder, delight, and mystery.

Media reviews

“This book is sheer delight. Grown-ups of all ages, as well as children of all ages, will revel in it.
—Lillian Ross, The New Yorker

"An unusual and arresting book . . . [Wolkstein's] prefatory notes are so eloquent and so filled with flashes of light thrown upon the customs, beliefs, and practices of the Haitian people that nothing else seems to be wanted."
—Katherine M. Briggs, author of The Anatomy of Puck and A Dictionary of British Folktales in the English Language
 
“Wolkstein is a handsome example of a Translator: a person who can bridge cultures in such a way as to bring understanding, wit, humor, and moral meaning along with the words.”
—Barre Toelken, Journal of Latin American Literature & Arts
 
“It is a joy to have this book, not only to read it, but to listen to it. The Magic Orange Tree is a gift.”
—P.L. Travers, author of Mary Poppins