The Legend of John Henry

by Terry Small

A rhythmic retelling of a classic American folktale, marked by vividly detailed and colorful illustrations, presents the moving tale of powerful railroad worker John Henry and his race with the steam drill. Reading Level, 3.6.

Genres: Picture Books

32 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[Morgan Colon · Rating 4 out of 5]

The historical fiction picturebook, "The Legend of John Henry" by Terry Small is a wonderful read. The story takes you back in time and puts you in the shoes of John Henry, a slave who worked on the railroad tracks in 1989. The story follows Henry on his journey to freedom.
I really enjoyed this book because the illustrations are so colorful and detailed that it makes you feel like you're in the story. I like the message of perseverance in the story as well, it is a great lesson for kids. I think it is important for children today to know and acknowledge the history of slaves, so they can learn and grow from it. The book has beautiful double page spread illustrations, and the text is written in rhyming patterns which is fun and unique. Overall a great story that I would recommend.

[Sabrina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Summary: This classic folktale tells the story of John Henry and his race against the steam drill. Tiered of being replaced by machinery, Henry set off to prove that he could work faster than a machine could.

Evaluation: This was a great book. It described a hand working man and his desire to prove his worth. As a result, he helped save a number of jobs for men. Students will be able to see not only the features of a tall tale, but also the characteristics of someone who is hardworking.

Teaching Idea: I would use this book to introduce tall tales. The students would identify the characteristics that classify the story as a tall tale. Afterwards, I would have them try to write their own tall tale.

[Andrew Schoenfelder]

This book displayed very good lessons as well as important American History children should be aware of. The Legend of John Henry told a tale of an African American who saved thousands of railroad workers jobs when he defeated the machine that was supposed to be faster and better than any human could ever do. Students could learn about the making of the railroads and how that was the primary way for transportation and many people were employed until they went from coast to coast. Students of all ages could learn history and hard work morals from reading this version of The Legend of John Henry.