Folktales of Eastern Europe: The flying ship and other traditional stories

A collection of fairy tales from Eastern Europe, including stories of romance, adventure, and fables. The tales are retold in modern English by Neil Philip and illustrated by Larry Wilkes, preserving the richness, meaning, and magic of the original stories.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 13 July 2018
Publisher: Anness Publishing

This captivating collection of fairy tales delves into the rich tapestry of Eastern European folklore. Within its pages, readers are transported to a world of romance, adventure, and mythical beings that bestow wealth and happiness upon mere mortals. From fables that shed light on the origins of man and the creation of the world to tales of transformation and enchantment, this anthology offers a treasure trove of timeless stories.

Meet a man who undergoes a remarkable transformation into a noble animal, embarking on a quest to find his true love. Witness the dragon, who once saved his life, now relentlessly pursuing him, driven by a sense of gratitude. And behold the beautiful princess Vassilissa, courted by suitors from far and wide, her charm and grace captivating all who encounter her.

In "The Twelve Months," gods residing on a mountaintop intervene to bestow wealth and happiness upon a young girl. Meanwhile, in "The Feather of Bright Finist the Falcon," a man transformed into a noble animal embarks on a quest to discover his true love. Fables such as "God's Cockerel" and "A Good Deed is Always Requited with Ill" delve into the origins of man and the creation of the world, offering profound insights into the human condition.

The twenty-two traditional tales featured in this collection encompass a wide range of emotions and experiences, infused with a shared cultural heritage. Whether set in a humble cottage nestled deep within the forest, a quaint village, or the grand court of a king, each story unveils a fascination with the routines of family, church, and community life. With a humorous, ironic perspective, these tales portray the quirks and foibles of human nature, leaving readers both entertained and contemplative.

Folklorist Neil Philip has skillfully retelling these stories in modern English, preserving the richness, meaning, and magic of the original tales. This translation is particularly suited for reading aloud to children or for older readers to discover on their own. Complementing the text are vibrant illustrations by Larry Wilkes, depicting fantastical dragons and beautiful princesses, bringing the essence of Eastern European culture to life in stories that appeal to children of all ages.

In essence, this collection of fairy tales offers a timeless journey through the realms of imagination and folklore, inviting readers to explore the wonders of Eastern Europe's rich heritage. Whether you are a child or an adult, these tales will transport you to a world of enchantment, where love, courage, and the power of myth and magic intertwine to create unforgettable stories.

Weight: 700g
Dimension: 182 x 260 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781861478634