American Folk Tales – A Book Full of Adventure!

Introduction

Do you love exciting stories? Do you enjoy reading about adventure, clever heroes, and funny animals? Then American Folk Tales, retold by George Gibson, is the perfect book for you! This book includes three of America’s most-loved folk tales from the 1800s. These stories are about brave and clever characters who became legends. You will meet Johnny Appleseed, Pecos Bill, and Brer Rabbit.

This book is part of the Green Apple – Level 1 series by Black Cat Publisher. It is written in simple English, so it is perfect for A2-level students. You can also listen to the Audio CD to improve your English listening skills. Let’s explore the wonderful stories in this book!

Johnny Appleseed – The Man Who Loved Apples

Johnny Appleseed was a real person, but his story became a legend. His real name was John Chapman, and he was born in 1774 in America. Johnny loved apples. He traveled across America, planting apple seeds wherever he went. He wanted everyone to have apple trees. He was kind and loved nature. People said he wore a pot on his head instead of a hat!

Johnny Appleseed helped many people by giving them apple trees. He taught them to take care of nature. Today, he is remembered as a symbol of kindness and generosity. When you eat an apple, you can think of Johnny Appleseed!

Pecos Bill – The Greatest Cowboy

Pecos Bill is a tall tale character. This means his story is very funny and exaggerated. People say Pecos Bill was raised by coyotes! He was the best cowboy in Texas. He could ride any horse, even a wild one! One day, he rode a tornado like it was a horse.

Pecos Bill was very strong and very brave. He made the first cowboy lasso and tamed wild animals. He even created the Grand Canyon by dragging his lasso on the ground! Of course, these stories are not real, but they are fun to read. Pecos Bill is a symbol of the wild and adventurous spirit of Texas cowboys.

Brer Rabbit – The Clever Trickster

Brer Rabbit is a famous character from Southern plantation stories. He is a small rabbit, but he is very smart. He always finds a way to trick bigger and stronger animals.

One of the most famous stories is about Brer Rabbit and the Tar Baby. Brer Fox makes a doll out of tar and puts it on the road. When Brer Rabbit talks to it, the doll does not answer. Brer Rabbit gets angry and hits the doll. But now he is stuck! Brer Fox is happy because he finally caught Brer Rabbit. But Brer Rabbit is clever. He says, “Please do not throw me into the briar patch!” Brer Fox wants to make him suffer, so he throws him into the briar patch. But Brer Rabbit loves the briar patch! He laughs and runs away.

Brer Rabbit teaches us that cleverness is more important than strength. These stories are funny and full of surprises.

Why Should You Read This Book?

• Simple English – The book is written for A2-level students.
• Exciting Stories – These folk tales are full of adventure and humor.
• Improve Your English – Read and listen to the Audio CD to practice your English.
• Learn American Culture – Discover traditional American legends and values.

Conclusion

American Folk Tales is a wonderful book full of fun and adventure. You will travel across America with Johnny Appleseed, Pecos Bill, and Brer Rabbit. You will learn about kindness, bravery, and cleverness.

If you love stories, this book is perfect for you. Get your copy today and start your journey into the world of American folk tales!

Happy reading!

George Gibson former publishing director at Bloomsbury 

George Gibson: From Waxing Lyricist to Adventurous Storyteller

Early Life and Unconventional Beginnings

George Gibson's journey into the world of storytelling is anything but conventional. Born and raised in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles, he initially pursued acting, studying at Century City. However, his natural inclination for humor—often breaking into laughter during performances—led his mother to suggest that acting might not be his calling. Despite this, George's creative spirit remained strong, and he sought different outlets to express himself.

His academic prowess in mathematics and nuclear physics showcased his intellect, but traditional career paths in these fields never captivated him for long. Struggling to find work, he took up a job at a car wash. Instead of letting the mundane routine dampen his spirit, George turned it into a performance. Singing popular songs while waxing cars, he earned the affectionate nickname "The Waxing Lyricist" from his amused coworkers.

A Passion for Writing Against the Odds

Writing had always intrigued George, yet his family dismissed his attempts as trivial. However, a few of his friends—those living interstate—believed in his potential. Their encouragement reinforced his belief that everyone has a story to tell, regardless of whether the world acknowledges it or not. This realization kept his passion for writing alive, even if it remained in the background for years.

The Call of Adventure: Racing, Australia, and Inspiration

As George moved on from the car wash, he found excitement in motor racing and car repairs. His love for adrenaline-pumping activities extended to dirt rallies, where he thrived in the competitive environment. It was during a rallying trip to Australia with friends that something changed—he was struck by the vast landscapes, rugged beauty, and untamed wilderness. This profound experience rekindled his desire to write.

Inspired by his travels, George penned his first book, Mad Manx. The novel explores adventure, mystery, and discovery, themes that resonate with his own journey. Though he jokes about some of his ideas being "poop ideas," his storytelling captured the curiosity of friends who once laughed at his ambitions. Now, they eagerly await a sequel, urging him to continue the journey of Manx and the lost city.

Writing and the Power of Place

Though he longs to return to Australia, George finds inspiration closer to home. The deserts of California, combined with classic Mad Max films, fuel his imagination for future stories. Another favorite writing spot is the Palos Verdes Peninsula, particularly near the Point Vicente Lighthouse. For George, scenery plays a crucial role in creativity—every writer needs a setting that sparks inspiration, even if the outcome isn't always perfect.

A Storyteller Shaped by Life

George Gibson's journey is a testament to resilience and reinvention. From an aspiring actor to a car-wash entertainer, a dirt rally racer to an adventurous novelist, his life experiences have shaped him into a writer with a unique voice. He embraces both the struggles and triumphs, understanding that every detour adds another chapter to his story.

With Mad Manx already out in the world and ideas brewing for future books, George proves that storytelling isn’t about conventional success—it’s about persistence, passion, and finding inspiration in the most unexpected places. His journey reminds us all that creativity can emerge from any path, as long as we dare to follow it.