Description
Book Synopsis"Designed for the novice storyteller as well as the seasoned professional, this book reminds us that stories are both medicine and nourishment." -- Margo McLoughlin, author of Seeds of Generosity Fonts of timeless wisdom, folktales are meant to be told aloud and this collection curates fifty such tales along with guidance for telling them well in gatherings of all sizes. The stories explore a broad range of themes, including authenticity, forgiveness, generosity, death, faith, hope and many more. Some funny, others poignant - all of the tales draw listeners in. Each story is accompanied by a brief descriptions, story maps and reflective questions. A comprehensive index of themes and principles rounds out this comprehensive folktale resource.
Trade Review“Designed for the novice storyteller as well as the seasoned professional, Ancient Stories for Modern Times reminds us that stories are both medicine and nourishment. They are gifts we give each other. Skillfully retold, these wisdom tales address an array of critical issues, from “Living with One Another” to “Seeking Justice” and “Accepting Change.” With Mogensen’s guidance, you’ll soon find yourself telling your own versions, trusting the story to come alive in your imagination. All you have to do is let one of the stories choose you and then begin. . . .” —Margo McLoughlin, author of Seeds of Generosity: Storytelling in the Classroom
“Faye Mogensen has carefully selected stories with good bones, ready to be adapted and fleshed out by tellers of any experience level. She has gathered tales from all over the globe that cover a broad range of themes and offer deep but simple wisdom. This collection is sure to have something for everyone. I’ve picked out several new favorites already.” —Kristin Maier, author of A Good Telling: Bringing Worship to Life with Story
“Faye Mogensen has lovingly stitched together a wonderful collection of tales—and so much of this work sparkles! These stories are drawn from more than 30 countries and cultures, from first people creation myths to modern times and across a wide spectrum of religious beliefs. . . . Either buy this book as a gift for yourself or for a storyteller that you want to treat—they will thank you for it!” —Allison Cox, Coordinator, Healing Story Alliance
Table of ContentsForeword by Elisa Davy Pearmain
Introduction
Tips for Telling
PART ONE: Living with the Natural World
Children of Darkness
The Voice of the Great Spirit
The Priest in Paradise
The Noble Deer
The Man from Aluk
Baldy
To Whom Does the Land Belong
PART TWO: Living with Ourselves
The Hole Boy
Vasilisa the Brave
Crow and Partridge
The Happy Man's Shirt
Granny’s Ride
Trustworthy Traveler
PART THREE: Living with One Another
Ivarr’s Tale
The Meat of the Tongue
The Elephant and the Dog
Birds Learn about Friendship
Polite Peculiarities
The Sign of the Tassel
Kassa, the Strong One
PART FOUR: Practicing Generosity
The Magic Spring
A Gift for Grandfather
Ukko’s Bread
Primroses for Gold
Generosity Bends the Road
The Drum
PART FIVE: Seeking Justice
The Gentleman and the Thief
The Jug on the Rock
Strength in Unity
Sister Goose and the Foxes
Brother Fox and the Geese
Two Pebbles
The Bell of Justice
The Fifty Dollar Bill
PART SIX: Developing Perspective
The Magnificent Red Bud Tree
Crow and Pitcher
One Thousand Ideas, One Idea
The Monkey Who Asked for Misery
PART SEVEN: Accepting Change
The Shining Jewel
Grandfather and Grandson
Donald of the Burdens
Capturing Spring
A Pig's Life
PART EIGHT: Seeking Peace and Finding Hope
The Almond Tree
Cooking Together, Trinidad Style
Hannah and the Wind
The Night Bird
Milk and Sugar
The Blind Man and the Hunter
Pandora’s Gift
Sources
Thematic Index
Principle Index
