Mexican folktales invite us into a magical world of enchantment and transformation, populated by cats and kings, priests and tricksters, ordinary people and supernatural beings, in this vibrant collection. Drawing from authentic sources, folklorist Neil Philip has created a rich and varied anthology of fifteen folktales that draw on the rich storytelling tradition of Mexico, where classic themes and fairytale elements are blended with magic and infused with Roman Catholic imagery to create a distinctly Mexican flavour and flair. The Virgin Mary plays the role of fairy godmother, devils gamble for souls, and witches dance at fiestas with horse hooves instead of feet. Read about a witch that turns seven brothers into seven blue oxen and how a young man, thrown overboard to drown, is rescued by a mysterious shadow. As in the tradition of other folktales from around the world, cats, dogs, fools, soldiers and princesses go on quests and have magical adventures. The vibrant, whimsical paintings by Jacqueline Mair are based on Mexican folk art and make these spirited tales just right for storytimes and a perfect introduction to this little known body of folk literature, ideal to read aloud or for older readers to enjoy discovering by themselves.
