HAMPTON, VA - Award-winning storyteller and historian Sheila Arnold has released her highly anticipated audio book, "Br'er Rabbit Tales: Then & Now," bringing these beloved stories to a new generation of listeners.

Drawing from the rich oral tradition of African American folklore, Arnold's dynamic narration breathes fresh life into the timeless trickster tales of Br'er Rabbit, whose quick wit and resourcefulness have delighted audiences for centuries.

"These stories have been part of World culture for generations," says Arnold. "I wanted to preserve their authentic spirit while making them accessible to contemporary audiences. There's a reason these tales have endured, they contain universal wisdom about resilience, creativity and outsmarting obstacles rather than confronting then with force."

The collection features Ms. Arnold's interpretations of classic Br'er Rabbit adventures, including his encounters with Br'er Fox, Br'er Bear and others.

Ms. Arnold, known for her historical character presentations and educational programs, has performed at the Kennedy Center, Colonial Williamsburg and numerous schools and festivals across the country. Her work preserving and sharing African American oral traditions has earned her multiple storytelling awards and recognition as a cultural ambassador.

Sheila is also a passionate advocate for civil rights education. She was commissioned by the Scarboro 85 Monument Committee to tell the story of the 85 students who desegregated Oak Ridge Schools in Tennessee in 1955—the first public schools desegregated in the Southeast. In 2023, Arnold presented this important historical narrative in nine locations over just four days, raising awareness and private funding for the monument while bringing national attention to this overlooked chapter in civil rights history. Recently, additional funds totaling 3.2 million dollars from the 2025-2026 Tennessee State Budget were approved by Governor Bill Lee to complete the monument.

"It was an honor to walk with those who led this project," Arnold has said of her work with the Scarboro 85 project. "These stories must be preserved and shared with future generations so we understand our complete history."

The release event for Sheila Arnold's "Br'er Rabbit Tales: Then & Now" was hosted at the International Storytelling Center in Jonesborough, TN. The audiobook is now available for listening on all major streaming platforms.

*Video Courtesy of the International Storytelling Center

For more information please contact:
James Gilley | (865) 898 - 6018
jamesgilley.promotion@gmail.com