Fagundes (Hispanic languages and literatures, U. of Massachusetts Amherst) and Blayer (linguistics, modern languages, literatures, and cultures, Brock U., Canada) compile 16 essays originally presented at their 2005 conference on storytelling and cultural identity held in the Azores. The selections sample the English-language contributions, examining such subjects as recovering the Japanese narrative structure, the function of Manobo storytelling in the preservation of culture, autobiographical writing and voice, and children's stories. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)