Description
Book SynopsisWit, humor, and warmth permeate the stories in this collection. Here are more than 50 traditional folktales from the people of Poland, ranging from animal and humorous tales to why stories, tales of magic and the supernatural, and local legends. In addition, you'll find riddles, nursery rhymes, games and activities, recipes, and background information on the land, the people, and the stories-all enhanced by maps and handsome color photos and illustrations. A wonderful addition to the folklore collection, this book provides material that folklorists will wish to study, storytellers will be eager to share with their audiences, and educators will want explore with their students. A delicious assortment of folktales from Poland awaits you in this appealing collection. More than 50 tales range from local legends, animal tales, and magic tales to religious legends, stories of demons and supernatural creatures, humorous tales, and how and why tales-exemplifying the Polish spirit, character, and sense of humor. In addition, you'll find historical background; directions for traditional games, crafts, recipes; and color photographs that depict the people, the land, and the traditions of this fascinating country.
Trade ReviewThe glossary, list of sources, and bibliography--the most valuable parts of this collection--add to the annotations at the headings of several of the stories. The authors intersperse graphically pleasing wycinanki (Polish folk paper cuts) in black outlines and a few color photographs of actual storytellers, which encourage the reader to learn more about Polish folklore and perhaps visit the fledgling Storytelling Museum established by Malinowski near Warsaw. Potentially useful for those embarking on the study of Polish language, history, or literature. * Choice *
". . . an excellent source for enhancing a cultural diversity program. The folktales are generally brief and no longer than a few pages -- good for novice storytellers. While recommended for all ages, the stories, though some have double meanings, are generally appropriate for use with young children incorporating rhymes and finger plays; but the greatest use would be by the middle and upper elementary/middle school students and teachers. Exploring different areas of the world in their classroom curriculum as well as extending cultural programs would be greatly enhanced by this series."
Reviewed as part of the World Folklore series. * Catholic Library World *
…offers an intriguing invitation to explore a variety of Polish traditions… With the excellent explanatory notes prefacing the work and detailed source notes and bibliography the book underpins entertainment with scholarship… A dip into these pages offers experiences of a world enriched by long historical memory and lively imagination. * American Folklore Society Children's Section *
