Tall tales are made-up stories that try to explain things that have happened. They usually make things sound bigger and more exciting than real life.

Was the story you read really a tall tale? Answer the questions to be sure.

Then, go to the next screen.

Are the details exaggerated?

Does the hero solve problems in a funny way?

Is the main character“larger than life”?

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. Then, go to the next slide.

Explore all of the postcards in this slide show.Choose your favorite picture.

Write a tall tale about it.

Tips

• Exaggerate qualities or features of your character, such as size or strength.

•Exaggerate features of the setting, such as the weather, landscape, or animals.

•Have your character change something in nature – for example, end a heat wave or create a river.

•Use the planner on Practice Book page 90.