John Henry by Julius Lester

Title: John Henry
Author: Julius Lester
Illustrator: Jerry Pinkney 
Publisher / Date: Penguin Group / 1999
Genre: Folk Tale, Picture Book
Themes: Folk Tales, Tall Tales, Strength, Legends, African American Folklore
Summary: John Henry is strength personified. Lester retells the African American folk tale of this strong man who proved that man is stronger than a machine. 
Curriculum Connections: Social Studies, Grades 2-5: Tall Tales, Folk Tales
Notes: Wonderful illustrations!