Bell Ringer #10: Monday, May 16, 2001 Have you ever told a story that was “slightly” exaggerated to get more of a reaction out of your audience? Why did you decide to bend the truth? Were people more apt to believe your story? Why or why not?

What is a Tall Tale?

A tall tale is a fictional story that stretches the truth. The heroes or sheroes of tall tales are "larger than life.“ Sometimes the heroes or sheroes in a tall tale are completely made up. Sometimes they are based on an actual person who really lived.

Through the telling of the story, these characters are given exaggerated characteristics. They are bigger or stronger than real people and solve problems in a way that is hard to believe.

Tall tales were first told in America by the settlers who made their homes in the American wilderness. In those days, people didn't have TV, movies, or even many books, so they depended on storytelling for their entertainment. After a long day's work, people would gather together and tell one another unbelievable stories.

The tall tale heroes and sheroes were like regular people. They did the same type of work as the settlers, except they did it with amazing speed, strength, or cleverness. Maybe having these heroes and sheroes helped give the settlers the courage to do their difficult and dangerous work.

Some classic tall tale heroes and sheroes are Paul Bunyan, Johnny Appleseed, Davy Crockett, Sally Ann Thunder Ann Whirlwind Crockett, John Henry, Pecos Bill, and Slue-Foot Sue.

Four things all Tall Tales Have in Common

The main character has a regular job but is larger-than- life or superhuman in his or her abilities. #1

The character has a problem or problems that he or she solves in a funny way. #2

Details in the story are exaggerated beyond belief. #3

The characters use everyday language and are like common people in behavior. #4

Big Fish (2003)

Mater’s Tall Tales 0KNTLFIC

Reading: Paul Bunyan and Pecos Bill

Tall Tale Activity NOW YOU TRY!

William H. Martin was known for his tall-tale postcards. He pasted photos together to make his postcards look real. Have you ever seen a rabbit this big? Think about a story you could write about a huge rabbit.

1.Explore all of the postcards in this slide show. 2.Choose your favorite picture. 3.Write a tall tale about it. 4.Remember to make your story as exciting as possible!