Lost African American Fables and Fantastic Tales: A Lesson Book with Activities, Projects, and Lesson Plans Included

Over the years, I have become fascinated by many fantasy tales that blend local legends, historical fiction, and African-American experiences. For instance, in my small North Carolina hometown, there is a legend claiming that my great-grandparents’ homestead was once a Civil War battleground. We even discovered an old silver sword buried under their rose garden, which makes me wonder if there’s some truth behind the stories our elders shared.

As I started planning a family time capsule, my idea of writing our history—based on the unusual tales I have heard throughout my life—led to the creation of this book. When our family gathers for reunions, we strive to make it enjoyable. We ‘season’ our get-togethers like a good homemade stew by planning games, doing silly dances, and adding our twist to family stories.

This book reflects what we do as teachers and family to pass on knowledge and inspiration—32 family members are educators. It’s titled “Lost African American Fables and Fantastic Tales: A Lesson Book with Activities, Projects, and Lesson Plans Included.” Each tale combines intriguing historical facts, quirky local legends, and clever characters (loosely inspired by real people from family, home, and community).

You will ‘meet’ characters ranging from scientists to builders to doctors and homemakers. As a retired professor with 28 years of experience, I decided to organize the book into chapters and sections. This book can be particularly useful in American history, creative writing, or social-emotional (mindfulness) education settings. Additionally, this book serves as a fun way to explore creative and fictional tales in classes, as a lively book club activity, and as an engaging resource for your family or group gathering. Each chapter is structured as follows:

Short Story Vignette: Each chapter starts with a quick read short story that blends science fiction, fantasy, old wives’ tales, and folklore rooted in African-American history. For example, one story introduces an extraordinary gold-mining community where the mayor must devise a plan for when the gold runs out.

Fantasy or Fiction: After reading the vignette, students decide whether the story is fantasy or fiction. As the author, I leave it up to readers to determine the truth of the tale. The goal of this book is to inspire readers to expand their thinking, consider new possibilities, and evaluate the whimsical nature of what they have read. I encourage readers to ask: Could this really have happened?

Think Like A Dreamer Assignment Activities: Each chapter concludes with a fun writing exercise, hands-on activity, or culminating project. The aim is for readers to metaphorically step into the character’s shoes. Applying what they have read and analyzing new ideas is key. As the teacher or group leader, you can have your students or group complete these projects individually or in small groups.

Teacher’s Guide and Lesson Plan for Each Chapter: The information makes it easier for you to navigate and facilitate each story. You’ll find a lesson plan with an outline of helpful teaching strategies including a list of materials needed to complete the assignment.

Each of the super short chapters is written in easy-to-read large print and comes in three books with a theme song for each: This is the beginning book with seven chapters. Every chapter provides an adventure, an idea, a magical thought, and a unique perspective for readers to contemplate. I have always believed there isn’t just one way to fry a fish, so why should there be only one way to tell a story or examine history? I hope you enjoy this book as you reflect on what's possible. Could these adventures really have happened? Let's find out.