Acadian Legends, Folktales, and Songs from Prince Edward Island

Edward L. Edmonds is a professor of education at the University of
Prince Edward Island and an honorary chief of the Lennox Island
Mi’kmaq of Prince Edward Island.

Maintenance of indigenous culture must ultimately reside in language,
especially the spoken forms. No better example can be provided than this
book, which documents Acadian legends, anecdotes, and songs, as recalled
by present-day Acadians. Georges Arsenault gives each informant a brief
introduction, illustrated wherever possible by a black-and-white
photograph. His preface provides historical background and is
accompanied by a map showing where French-speaking Acadians live in
Prince Edward Island. A bibliography lists various books, articles,
newspapers, and recordings. The simple, evocative cover painting is by
Karen Gallant from rural Rustico.

To the great delight of music lovers everywhere, Arsenault has included
a precise score for the songs. His book is strongly recommended for
school, public, and home libraries.