World Folklore Series – serie

Delve into a world of kelpies, mermaids, selkies, ghosts, warlords, and fairies. This collection gives you Celtic tales, previously unrecorded or only found in obscure compilations. Mostly collected by the author on her ancestral home of the Isle of Barra in the Hebrides, these lesser-known tales from Scotland, Ireland, and Wales are supported by a brief history of the Celts, a glossary of the Gaelic integrated in the stories, an appendix of superstitions about fairy protection, and bibliographies that reflect the author's extensive research. Seventeen ballads collected almost one hundred years ago and excerpts from the author's journal of travels in Scotland make this book a unique and valuable resource for anyone who tells stories.

Take a journey into the fascinating world of Australia's Aboriginal culture with this unique collection of 33 authentic, unaltered stories brought to you by three Aboriginal storyteller custodians! Unlike other compilations of tales that were modified and published without permission from the Aboriginal people, these stories are now presented with approval from Aboriginal elders in an effort to help foster a better understanding of the history and culture of the Aboriginal people. Gadi Mirrabooka, which means below the Southern Cross, introduces wonderful tales from the Dreamtime, the mystical period of Aboriginal beginning. Through these stories you can learn about customs and values, animal psychology, hunting and gathering skills, cultural norms, moral behavior, the spiritual belief system, survival skills, and food resources. A distinctive and absolutely compelling story collection, this book is an immensely valuable treasure for educators, parents, children, and adult readers. Grades K-A

The world's largest archipelago, Indonesia is home to hundreds of ethnic groups with diverse cultures and languages. Focusing on the rich heritage of the country, this latest addition to the highly acclaimed World Folklore Series presents 29 stories from across Indonesia, most of which have never been published in the English language. Build your multicultural collection or expand your repertoire with tales that provide a moving and colorful image of the diversity and richness of the people and lands of Indonesia. Six thematic groups are presented: Jealous and Envious Brothers and Sisters; Stories of Independent Princesses; Stories of Ungrateful Children; Stories about Rice; Stories of Place Legends; and Stories of How Things Come to Be.All Levels

Using primary German-language sources, Altmann has gleaned a wonderful assortment of authentic tales to enchant and educate audiences of all ages. The stories are organized in four sections: Animal stories, Comic tales, Fairy tales, and Local legends. Background information on the stories, a description of German life during the 19th century, color photographs, a pronunciation guide for German terms, and traditional German recipes are included. All grade levels.Many people are familiar with the German tales of the Brothers Grimm, but usually in the sugar-coated versions of picture books and Hollywood cartoons. In this book you'll discover some other sides to German folklore. Using primary German-language sources, Altmann has gleaned a wonderful assortment of authentic tales to enchant and educate audiences of all ages. This collection includes many favorite German tales, such as Rapunzel, Snow White, Rumpelstilkskin, Hansel and Gretel, and The Bremen Town Musicians; as well as more obscure tales such as The Seven Swabians and The Master Thief. There are tales for all kinds of listeners and readers—more than 80 stories in all, including tales that may shock you or make your hair stand on end, as well as those that will intrigue or amuse. The stories are organized in four sections: Animal stories (Tiergeschichten, largely fables), Comic tales (Schwanke, which range from the silly to the outrageous), Fairy tales (Zaubermarchen, or wonder tales), Local legends (Sagen, which include stories of ghosts and goblins, and religious legends). Background information and tale type information on the stories, a description of German life during the 19th century, color photos, a pronunciation guide for German terms, and traditional German recipes make this a wonderful resource for introducing audiences to German culture and traditions.

The power of love within families; the complexities of relationships; the rites of passage for birth, coming of age, marriage, and death-these are some of the themes covered in this wonderful volume. Author and storyteller Lindy Soon Curry offers us 25 enchanting tales that foster understanding of Korean culture and Korean Americans. Humorous tales, teaching tales, tall tales, classics, and a section of stories about tigers are included. Written in a style that easily lends itself to read-alouds as well as to silent reading, these stories reflect unique cultural traditions and values of Korea as well as universal symbols and themes. Curry's tips for storytelling give educators insights in how to effectively present or perform the tales. In addition, Dr. Chan-eung Park discusses the wisdom to be found in the stories and the cultural continuity of the collection. A color plate section illustrates some of the traditional arts, customs, landscapes of Korea.

Hmong culture has had an oral tradition for millennia, but the language itself did not even exist in written form until the 1950s. Compiled by famed author and storyteller Norma Livo and coauthor, Dia Cha, this is the first collection of authentic Hmong tales to be published commercially in the English language. Beginning with a description of Hmong history, culture, and folklore, the book includes 16 pages of full-color photographs of Hmong dress and needlework and 27 captivating tales divided into three sections: beginnings; how/why stories; and stories of love, magic, and fun. Appropriate for high school and adult readers, with selected stories appropriate for younger children, this collection is an important addition to multicultural units.

This collection of tales, the only one of its kind currently available in the United States, introduces you to the treasures of an ancient and rapidly changing culture. Selected and translated by Kavita Ram Shrestha of Nepal, the 15 stories range in tone from the playful to the haunting.From a region of spectacular beauty, gentle people, and deep spirituality come some of the world's most enchanting tales. This collection of tales, the only one of its kind currently available in the United States, introduces you to the treasures of an ancient and rapidly changing culture. Selected and translated by Kavita Ram Shrestha of Nepal and edited by Sarah Lamstein, the 15 stories range in tone from the playful King Silly and Minister Sloppy to the haunting Uttis Tree. Tales are supplemented by color photographs; line drawings; and an introduction to the history, geography, and culture of the country. A generous bibliography leads readers to further resources.

Gathered from 7 of the more than 40 ethnic groups of Kenya, these stores are brought to you both as original translations and as lively, ready-to-use retellings. Ethnic groups respresented are the Kikuyu, Turkana, Akamba, Kipsigis, Taita, Luhya, and Samburu. Cultural and historical background information on the groups, notes on the stories, lists of further resources, and tips for retelling make this collection useful to librarians, storytellers, public speakers, teachers, and parents. The fascinating account of McNeils's own experiences and observations in collecting the tales is woven throughout the book. Beautiful color photos of Kenyan storytellers and the animals portrayed in the stories illustrate her journey and the tales.

The diverse peoples of the former Yugoslavia offer us a rich folk tradition with lively tales to delight readers of all ages. Marshall has selected 33 stories that represent all major population groups of the region, including South Slavic, Yugoslav Albanian, and Yugoslav Romany. Translated from their original languages and retold for a broad audience, these tales demonstrate the diversity and unity of the region. A fascinating historical overview, background information, color photos of the people and the land, maps, and more make this a wonderful resource for entertainment and study.

Although there are many collections of Chinese folktales, few if any focus specifically on the tales of Taiwan, which have evolved in a tradition separate and distinct from that of mainland China. This wonderful sampling of more than 20 Taiwanese tales will appeal to all ages, illuminating Taiwanese culture and demonstrating Taiwanese values and ethics. In addition, readers will find a brief history of the island, discussion questions, and activity ideas to extend learning and enjoyment, as well as simple Taiwanese recipes, color photos, and traditional drawings. Stories can be read aloud to younger students, while older children will enjoy reading and performing them on their own. This delightful introduction to Taiwanese traditions is a superb educational tool, and a great addition to the storytelling shelf. Grades K-12.

The culture, history, and spirit of the Hispanic Southwest are brought to readers through this fascinating collection of 45 cuentos (stories and legends) from the region. From ancient creation myths of the Aztecs and traditional tales of Spanish colonialists to an eclectic sampling of the work of modern Latino storytellers, this book provides a rich tapestry of both obscure and well-loved stories-religious stories; animal tales; stories of magic, transformation, and wisdom; and chistes (short comic tales). Fifteen tales are also presented in Spanish. The origin and historical development of the stories are examined in an introductory chapter. A discussion of dichos (proverbs) and adivinanzas (riddles) illuminates the larger context of the oral tradition in which the tales have flourished. Lavishly illustrated with pictures of original paintings and sculpture by contemporary Latino artists, this fascinating collection will appeal to children and adults alike and is a must for the multicultural class

This beautiful tapestry of traditional tales, history, folk arts, and dance offers you a glimpse into the living legacy of Mexican folklore. After an overview of Mexico's history from the Mesoamerican indigenous era to modern times, Vigil explores the fascinating traditions of Oaxacan wood carving, Huichol bead and yarn art, folk masks, folklorico dance costumes, and Mexican folklore. A collection of tales follows, including classic tales, pourquoi creation tales from native people of pre-Hispanic Mexico, and tales from the Spanish colonial era of Mexican history-trickster tales, adventure and wonder stories, and animal fables. Lively reading for older students and adults, the tales may also be used for read-alouds with younger students. With 15 of the 44 tales presented in Spanish as well as in English, this is an excellent resource for Spanish classes and for Spanish-speaking readers. The fascinating background material also makes the book an excellent source for reports and research. Color plates

Some of the world's oldest and richest folk traditions come from a country that most Americans know very little about-Finland (or Suomi). The fifth largest country in Europe (in land size), Finland is home to the third true folk epic, The Kalevala (The Land of Heroes). It is a country of lush forests and sparkling clear lakes where, in the northern regions, reindeer still roam. This collection introduces readers to the fascinating culture, history, geology, and folk literature of Finland. After a historical and cultural overview, the authors present 20 representative stories-including ancient tales from The Kalevala, humorous and moral tales (e.g., The Selfish Housewife and The Magic Wish)-and a fictionalized account of a witch trial in the 1600s. Holiday traditions, proverbs and sayings, and traditional recipes embellish this collection and will tantalize and intrigue readers. Color plates illustrate the land, the people, and artistic traditions of this wondrous people.

Discover Ukraine's long and fascinating history, its rich folk literature, and its deep cultural roots. A historical overview and an introduction to Ukrainian folk literature are followed by 33 traditional tales-humorous animal tales, instructive fables, how and why stories, heroic legends, and even spooky tales.Ukraine, a country that was for years forgotten, has recently emerged from the shadows of the former Soviet Union to take its place on the world stage. This unique collection of stories introduces readers to Ukraine's long and fascinating history, its rich folk literature, and its deep cultural roots. A historical overview and an introduction to Ukrainian folk literature are followed by 33 traditional tales-humorous animal tales, instructive fables, how and why stories, heroic legends, and even spooky tales. Color plates and line drawings illustrate elements from the stories and show readers some of the landscape, architecture, and folk arts of Ukraine. A great source for read-alouds and student reports, this book is a wonderful addition to the school or public library collection. With the recent influx of immigrants from Ukraine, renewed interest in this part of the world, and the country's increased visibility in international politics, this book will be a valuable resource for school and public

In this delightful collection, you'll find more than 30 Russian tales—animal tales, fairy tales, tales of everyday life, and tales of spirits and the supernatural. You'll discover new renditions of familiar and beloved tales, as well as a number of obscure spirit tales, which were officially ignored by the Soviets. There are tales for all ages and tastes—funny stories, scary stories, and stories to make you think. In addition you'll find a fascinating overview of the country and its history, activity ideas and recipes, color photographs, and a list of recommended reading. An outstanding resource for educators, storytellers, and general readers, this is an essential addition to the folklore shelf in school and public libraries. Grades K-12.

Ancestors of the nomadic group called San (or Bushmen) once roamed the northern territories of Africa and the Mediterranean. Now inhabiting the Kalahari desert (the place that dried up long ago) in South Africa, these fascinating people are known for their astonishing memory, extraordinary talents for hunting and tracking, superior abilities for finding food and water, and great storytelling. Here then is a portrait of one of the world's oldest and most remarkable cultures and its environment. The group's history, nomadic way of life, beliefs, customs, and stories are offered to readers with exquisite illustrations and color photographs of people, animals, and the land. Fifteen traditional tales, such as The Rain Bull, The First Tug-of-War, In Search of the Golden Prize, and All the Stars of Heaven, are presented in poetic verse and juxtaposed with commentary on the challenges this group faces today. The author has also included a glossary and a bibliography of resources for further study.

In the first part of this book, the authors introduce us to the Tlingit culture, history, land, and traditional art forms. The second part is a collection of 22 tales, from creation myths and religious stories to stories that teach familial values. A bibliography, an index, color photographs, and illustrations by traditional Tlingit artist Ts'anak are included. A great resource for the multicultural classroom or for a unit on American Indians.

Discover the traditional stories of the Mayan people of Mexico and Central and South America, and learn about Mayan culture. In this collection you'll find such tales as Uncle Rabbit, Uncle Coyote, How the Serpent was Born, The Moon, The Screamer of the Night, and more than 25 other tales ranging from trickster tales and tales of ghosts and witches to moral tales and tales of the underworld, presented in Spanish and English. A brief history, color photographs of the land, people, and traditional arts, and recipes accompany the tales, placing them within a cultural context. Grades K-12.

This enchanting sampling of traditional Armenian tales was gathered by the author in her travels and translated from Russian sources. A broad selection of more than 50 tales are organized by type-myths and legends, animal tales, fairy tales, stories of everyday life, and wits and dimwits. Readers (and listeners) of all ages will delight in stories such as The Invincible Rooster, The Donkey Who Swallowed the Moon, Seven Stars, and a sampling of tales about Silly Pugi, the Armenian trickster. Many of the stories are short and humorous, making them perfect for storytime programs and read-alouds. Stories are supplemented by background information on the people and their culture, including a brief history, discussion of folk traditions and food, recipes, photographs, and a bibliography. A great resource for educators, students, folklorists, and anyone interested in Armenian culture! All grade levels.This enchanting sampling of traditional Armenian tales was gathered by the author in her travels and translated from Russian sources. A broad selection of more than 50 tales are organized by type-myths and legends, animal tales, fairy tales, stories of everyday life, and wits and dimwits. Readers (and listeners) of all ages will delight in stories such as The Invincible Rooster, The Donkey Who Swallowed the Moon, Seven Stars, and a sampling of tales about Silly Pugi, the Armenian trickster. Many of the stories are short and humorous, making them perfect for storytime programs and read-alouds. Stories are supplemented by background information on the people and their culture, including a brief history, discussion of folk traditions and food, recipes, photographs, and a bibliography. A great resource for educators, students, folklorists, and anyone interested in Armenian culture! All grade levels.

From one of Japan's most popular and respected storytellers, this collection introduces readers to more than 40 wonderous tales from rural Japan—many that have not previously been seen or heard—from animal tales and tales of supernatural beings to stories about village characters and priests and their apprentices. It's a fascinating assortment that will delight young listeners, intrigue older readers, and offer scholars new insights. Background on the country and Japanese culture, notes on the tales, a glossary, recipes, games and crafts, and color photos and illustrations enhance the collection. All levels.As in many countries, storytelling is a revered art in Japan, and traditional tales have been carefully preserved for centuries. Yet only a small portion of Japan's tales has been shared with English-speaking audiences. From one of Japan's most popular and respected storytellers, this collection introduces readers to more than 40 wondrous tales from rural Japan—stories that have not previously been seen or heard—from animal tales and tales of supernatural beings to stories about village characters and priests and their apprentices.

Here is a broad sampling of traditional and contemporary Dutch tales that will entertain and inform readers and listeners of all ages. From animal tales and tales of magic to religious and realistic stories, and contemporary urban legends, you'll find in this collection scores of tales, riddles, puzzles, and jokes to savor and share. Many of the stories are rooted in the traditional rural society of the Netherlands, while others have sprung from the modern, urban, and multi-ethnic society that Holland is today. Background information on the country and the stories, and color photographs and illustrations, along with a detailed bibliography, makes this a well-rounded resource for educators, folklore scholars, and general readers. All levels.

This enchanting collection of traditional English folktales reflects the depth and diversity of the folk heritage of Britain, and illustrates the ties between stories, land, and people. The editors present an enticing assortment of more than 50 tales, gathered from practicing storytellers and organized into sections based on broad themes—The Fool in All His Glory, Wily Wagers and Tall Tales, Holy Days and Days of Heroes, and so forth. There's a story for every listener—from Teeny Tiny and The Pixies' Beds for young children to spooky ghost stories and witch tales, such as Wild Edric and Jenny Greenteeth for older readers and listeners. For each tale, the authors cite a region of origin. Like other titles in the series, the book contains background information: notes on the tales, a brief history of England, a map, photographs, a glossary, and a bibliography of sources. Brief biographies of the tellers are also included. All of these elements combine to form an apt resource for read-alouds and programs, an indispensable source for storytellers, and a great research tool for students. All grade levels.

A rich brew of more than 40 traditional Brazilian tales—from creation stories and stories of enchantment to animal and trickster tales—draws on the varied cultural traditions of indigenous peoples, people of African descent, those of European (and particularly Portuguese) descent, and mixtures of these groups. The stories are retold by today's accomplished Brazilian storytellers. Also includes background information on the country and the tales, color photographs, traditional recipes, and children's games.Brazil, the largest country in South America, covers a vast terrain that ranges from the tropical rain forests of the Amazon basin and upland farms, to towering mountains and sandy beaches; from highly populated urban centers to virtually inaccessible interior jungle regions. Its population is composed of indigenous peoples (e.g., Tupy, Kaxinawa, Taulipang), people of African descent, those of European (mostly Portuguese) descent, and mixtures of these groups. Drawing on the varied cultural traditions and ethnic diversity of the country, this collection offers readers a rich brew of traditional Brazilian tales—from creation stories and stories of enchantment to animal and trickster tales. More than 40 stories are included, along with background information, color photographs, recipes, and games. There are very few collections of Brazilian folktales currently available in English, and none with this depth and range. This is a wonderful treasury for storytellers, folklorists, and educators. Also a great resource for educators planning units on the Amazon rain forest! All grade levels.

Focusing specifically on the stories of the Han Chinese (the largest ethnic group in China, numbering over a billion people), this collection presents more than 50 tales, both well known and obscure—from Monkeys Fishing the Moon and The Butterfly Lovers to Painted Skin and Dragon Princess. These are stories that will enchant listeners of all ages, while providing a glimpse into Chinese traditions and ways of thought. To further enhance cultural understanding, the tales are supplemented with historical and cultural background, notes on storytelling, crafts and games, recipes, proverbs, color photos, a map, a glossary, and more.In the past decades, the doors between China and the West have been flung open. Explosive economic growth and massive increases in travel and immigration have engendered curiosity and interest in this burgeoning nation. Yet modernization has a dark side too, threatening traditional Chinese culture, including stories and storytelling. This new gathering of stories from a variety of sources, captures the fading storytelling traditions of a vast and diverse country. Focusing specifically on the stories of the Han Chinese (the largest ethnic group in China, numbering over a billion people), the collection presents more than 50 tales, both well known and obscure—from Monkeys Fishing the Moon and The Butterfly Lovers to Dragon Princess and Painted Skin. These are stories that will enchant listeners of all ages, while providing a glimpse into Chinese traditions and ways of thought. Tales are organized into seven sections: Animal Tales; Tales of Magic, Love and Romance; Myths, Legends and Immortals; Moral Stories; How Things Came to Be; and Proverbial Tales. To further enhance cultural understanding, the stories are supplemented with historical and cultural background, notes on storytelling and other folk traditions, recipes, proverbs, color photos, a map, a glossary, and more. All grade levels.

This unique and diverse selection of traditional folktales from the countries of the Arabian Peninsula appeals to a broad audience, ranging from storytellers and educators to folklorists and scholars.A unique compilation of stories, Folktales from the Arabian Peninsula includes tales from seven countries: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. Coauthored by a renowned folklorist and a professor of education who recalls some of these poignant tales from her own childhood, the book opens with a discussion of the Arabian Peninsula that introduces each country and discusses its terrain, peoples, and current situation to provide important background information. The engaging stories that follow will serve elementary, junior high, and high school librarians as well as public librarians, professional storytellers, and folklorists. The tales themselves—many of which have never been published in English language children's collections—are appropriate for readers grades five and up.

Discover Ukraine's long and fascinating history, its rich folk literature, and its deep cultural roots. A historical overview and an introduction to Ukrainian folk literature are followed by 33 traditional tales-humorous animal tales, instructive fables, how and why stories, heroic legends, and even spooky tales.Ukraine, a country that was for years forgotten, has recently emerged from the shadows of the former Soviet Union to take its place on the world stage. This unique collection of stories introduces readers to Ukraine's long and fascinating history, its rich folk literature, and its deep cultural roots. A historical overview and an introduction to Ukrainian folk literature are followed by 33 traditional tales-humorous animal tales, instructive fables, how and why stories, heroic legends, and even spooky tales. Color plates and line drawings illustrate elements from the stories and show readers some of the landscape, architecture, and folk arts of Ukraine. A great source for read-alouds and student reports, this book is a wonderful addition to the school or public library collection. With the recent influx of immigrants from Ukraine, renewed interest in this part of the world, and the country's increased visibility in international politics, this book will be a valuable resource for school and public

Delve into a world of kelpies, mermaids, selkies, ghosts, warlords, and fairies. This collection gives you Celtic tales, previously unrecorded or only found in obscure compilations. Mostly collected by the author on her ancestral home of the Isle of Barra in the Hebrides, these lesser-known tales from Scotland, Ireland, and Wales are supported by a brief history of the Celts, a glossary of the Gaelic integrated in the stories, an appendix of superstitions about fairy protection, and bibliographies that reflect the author's extensive research. Seventeen ballads collected almost one hundred years ago and excerpts from the author's journal of travels in Scotland make this book a unique and valuable resource for anyone who tells stories.

The world's largest archipelago, Indonesia is home to hundreds of ethnic groups with diverse cultures and languages. Focusing on the rich heritage of the country, this latest addition to the highly acclaimed World Folklore Series presents 29 stories from across Indonesia, most of which have never been published in the English language. Build your multicultural collection or expand your repertoire with tales that provide a moving and colorful image of the diversity and richness of the people and lands of Indonesia. Six thematic groups are presented: Jealous and Envious Brothers and Sisters; Stories of Independent Princesses; Stories of Ungrateful Children; Stories about Rice; Stories of Place Legends; and Stories of How Things Come to Be.All Levels

Take a journey into the fascinating world of Australia's Aboriginal culture with this unique collection of 33 authentic, unaltered stories brought to you by three Aboriginal storyteller custodians! Unlike other compilations of tales that were modified and published without permission from the Aboriginal people, these stories are now presented with approval from Aboriginal elders in an effort to help foster a better understanding of the history and culture of the Aboriginal people. Gadi Mirrabooka, which means below the Southern Cross, introduces wonderful tales from the Dreamtime, the mystical period of Aboriginal beginning. Through these stories you can learn about customs and values, animal psychology, hunting and gathering skills, cultural norms, moral behavior, the spiritual belief system, survival skills, and food resources. A distinctive and absolutely compelling story collection, this book is an immensely valuable treasure for educators, parents, children, and adult readers. Grades K-A