"Uncle Remus: His Songs and His Sayings" by Joel Chandler Harris is a timeless collection of African American folktales that resonate with the charm and wisdom of the Deep South's oral tradition. Published in 1881, these tales are framed through the character of Uncle Remus, a wise and kindly old freedman who shares stories with children.
Harris's work captures the essence of plantation life and the rich oral history passed down through generations. The book features Br'er Rabbit, a mischievous and cunning protagonist, along with other memorable characters like Br'er Fox and Br'er Bear. These stories, filled with wit and moral lessons, are narrated in a unique eye dialect, reflecting the Deep South Black dialect of the time.
Despite controversies over its representation, this collection remains a significant piece of American literature, praised for preserving the authentic voice and folklore of a pivotal era.