New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Preparation

Tall tales are a genre of folklore characterized by their use of superhuman traits and exaggerated events. These narratives often feature larger-than-life characters who undertake incredible feats, showcasing abilities far beyond those of ordinary humans. For example, a classic tall tale might involve a character like Paul Bunyan, who is depicted as an enormous lumberjack capable of extraordinary acts, such as creating the Grand Canyon.

The use of hyperbole is a defining feature of tall tales, as the narratively exaggerated events serve both to entertain and to convey cultural values or commentary. This aligns with the storytelling tradition, which emphasizes the humorous and fantastical aspects of the characters’ adventures, making them memorable and engaging. In contrast, other options focus on aspects like everyday life, realism, or emotional depth, which are not central to the tall tale genre. Tall tales thrive on the implausible and the imaginative, inviting audiences to suspend their disbelief and enjoy the whimsy of extraordinary storytelling.