PreSchool-Grade 5—Fairy tales retold in sign language are nothing new, but what sets this fine program apart is that the story has been retold by native users of English and American Sign Language (ASL) working together to create a version that highlights the strong points of both languages. Designed to inspire a basic appreciation of ASL rather than to teach it per se, the DVD allows viewers to watch the story straight through, with pages from the accompanying book by Alicita Rodriguez and Joseph Starr alternating with the ASL telling, accompanied by English, Spanish, or French voiceover. Once they have picked up some of the signs, youngsters can watch the story in ASL only. The "ASL Clues" section invites viewers to develop their understanding of ASL, and a glossary highlights specific signs from the story. The tale can also be accessed in audio format only to support beginning readers as they enjoy the accompanying book. Numerous humorous modern touches are added to the story. The illustrations by Judy Hood are colorful, if workmanlike. The real star here is renowned ASL storyteller Pinky Aiello, who brings whimsy to each character through her excellent telling.—Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, MD. Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. ASL Tales are told in an artistic version of American Sign Language (ASL) that includes ASL, mime, and gesture.
PreSchool-Grade 5—Fairy tales retold in sign language are nothing new, but what sets this fine program apart is that the story has been retold by native users of English and American Sign Language (ASL) working together to create a version that highlights the strong points of both languages. Designed to inspire a basic appreciation of ASL rather than to teach it per se, the DVD allows viewers to watch the story straight through, with pages from the accompanying book by Alicita Rodriguez and Joseph Starr alternating with the ASL telling, accompanied by English, Spanish, or French voiceover. Once they have picked up some of the signs, youngsters can watch the story in ASL only. The "ASL Clues" section invites viewers to develop their understanding of ASL, and a glossary highlights specific signs from the story. The tale can also be accessed in audio format only to support beginning readers as they enjoy the accompanying book. Numerous humorous modern touches are added to the story. The illustrations by Judy Hood are colorful, if workmanlike. The real star here is renowned ASL storyteller Pinky Aiello, who brings whimsy to each character through her excellent telling.—Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, MD. Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. ASL Tales are told in an artistic version of American Sign Language (ASL) that includes ASL, mime, and gesture.
