Books matching: storytelling traditions
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:'People of the Sea' by David Thomson is a captivating collection of folk tales that explore the interactions between people and seals along the coast of Scotland. Through the stories, the author delves into the rich folklore of the Selkie stories in Celtic culture, painting a vivid picture of real people at a specific point in history. The writing style is described as poetic and evocative, transporting readers to a past way of life that is rapidly disappearing, while also highlighting the melancholic yet wonder-filled tone that is characteristic of Celtic storytelling.
The author embarks on a journey along the western coasts of Scotland and Ireland, seeking out storytellers who hold the tales of the selchie selkie or sea folk. As modernization sweeps through these regions, the book also touches upon the loss of traditional storytelling practices and bardic arts, showcasing the struggle between reality and the otherworld in a changing world. not only presents folk tales but also provides glimpses into the lives of the people who shared these stories, making it a unique and immersive read for anyone interested in folklore and Celtic culture.
Of all the houses that I remember with love the house called Tigh na Rosan is the sweetest smelling and the brightest. That is to say it is the best of the clean and ordered houses I have lived in. Th... - #2
Save:'The Barefoot Woman' by Scholastique Mukasonga is a tribute to the author's mother and her unwavering devotion to Rwandan traditions and customs. Through a collection of vignettes and stories, Mukasonga illustrates the cultural practices and the constant fear of violence that her family, particularly the Tutsis, lived with. The narrative is set in the 1960s, portraying a different perspective of Rwanda beyond the well-known genocide of '94, shedding light on the struggles of displaced Tutsis and the innovative solutions they come up with to navigate their harsh reality.
- #3
Save:The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline is a dystopian novel set in a future Canada where indigenous people are hunted for their bone marrow, the key to dreaming which the rest of the population has lost. The story follows Frenchie, a 16-year-old Metis boy who joins a group of indigenous people fleeing north to escape the recruiters. Through a nonlinear narrative, the book explores themes of survival, loss, family, and the exploitation of indigenous cultures in a post-apocalyptic world.
“Anishnaabe people, us, lived on these lands for a thousand years. Some of our brothers decided to walk as far east as they could go, and some walked west, and some crossed great stretches of narrow e... - #4
Save:'Ireland' by Frank Delaney is a captivating novel that intertwines the history and myths of Ireland through the storytelling of a wandering storyteller. The book follows the journey of a young boy named Ronan who becomes fascinated by the tales shared by the storyteller and embarks on a quest to find him. Through a mix of history and folklore, the author paints a vivid picture of Ireland's past, from its first inhabitants to the Easter Rising, while also delving into Ronan's personal family history.
The writing style of 'Ireland' is praised for its unique approach of alternating between a linear narrative of Ronan's search for the storyteller and the folklore tales shared by the storyteller. Readers appreciate the way the author weaves together real stories from Ireland's history with the fictional narrative, creating a rich tapestry of legends and events that keep the readers engrossed throughout the book.
At the vulnerable age of thirty, Robert Shannon lost his soul. Nothing is worse; no greater danger exists. Only sinners lose their souls, it's said, through the evil that they do. Not Robert Shannon. ... - #5
Save:Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz is a collection of chilling tales and poems that have haunted readers since childhood. The stories range from ghosts and witches to modern-day horrors, accompanied by eerie illustrations that are as terrifying as the tales themselves. The book showcases a blend of urban legends and folk tales, perfect for sparking curiosity in readers who enjoy a good scare. With short stories and poems, this book is ideal for quick reads that leave a lasting impression, making it a classic choice for Halloween or a stormy night.
Jump stories (pp. 5–20): There are dozens of jump stories, but today only two are widely known. One is “The Big Toe,” which appears in Chapter 1 and circulates in southeastern United States. The other... - #6
Save:'A Short History of a Small Place' by T.R. Pearson is a humorous novel narrated by a young boy, Louis Benfield, set in the fictional town of Neely, NC. The story is a series of episodic tales about the eccentric people living in Neely during the 1960s and 70s. The writing style is described as using funny and unexpected words and phrasing, with the narration often meandering and relating funny anecdotes without a strong plot structure. captures a uniquely Southern social order and voice, focusing on the quirky characters and events that take place in the small town.
- #7Caneby:
Save:Cane by Jean Toomer is a unique work that defies categorization, blending poetry with prose in a modernist style that captivates readers. The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on the lives of black men and women in different settings, exploring themes of race, emotions, and landscapes. Part 1 is set in rural Georgia, painting a grim picture of religious obsession, fear, and bigotry, with a focus on women's experiences. Part 2 shifts to the north and the city, delving into the Jazz Age and the lives of men through dialogue and stream of consciousness. Part 3 takes the form of a play centered around the character of Ralph Kabnis, bringing the narrative back to its origins in Georgia.
Becky had one Negro son. Who gave it to her? Damn buck nigger, said the white folks’ mouths. She wouldnt tell. Common, God-forsaken, insane white shameless wench, said the white folks’ mouths. Her eye... 'Two Old Women' by Velma Wallis is a touching story about two elderly women who are abandoned by their tribe in the harsh Alaskan winter. Despite being left behind, the women decide to survive and thrive, showcasing resilience, independence, and the strength of the human spirit. The plot focuses on themes of aging, friendship, survival, and the value society places on older individuals. Written in a simple and direct prose style, the book provides a powerful message about not underestimating the capabilities of older people and the importance of self-reliance.
'Two Old Women' is based on an indigenous legend about the strength and courage of women, set in a tribal society facing challenging circumstances. The story highlights the transformation of the two old women as they learn new survival skills, gain self-esteem, and ultimately earn respect and independence. The author, Velma Wallis, beautifully captures the essence of the human spirit through this tale of survival and empowerment, shedding light on the resilience and wisdom of older generations.
The air stretched tight, quiet and cold over the vast land. Tall spruce branches hung heavily laden with snow, awaiting distant spring winds. The frosted willows seemed to tremble in the freezing temp...Readers find 'The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers' by Christopher Vogler to be an insightful guide that explores how Joseph Campbell's Hero's Journey mythology can be applied to strengthen individual writer's stories. Vogler discusses the archetypes of hero, mentor, threshold guardian, herald, shape shifter, shadow, and trickster, as well as explains each stage of the hero's journey. The book uses over 100 films as examples to illustrate the power of writing fiction and provides a framework for writers to create compelling narratives.
The waves are still rolling in from the pebbles in the pond that were the original Writer's Journey and its second edition. Since almost a decade has gone by since the second edition was launched, the...- #10
Save:The Jack Tales is a collection of traditional folk tales originating in Europe but transformed through the American South's oral tradition. The stories revolve around the adventures of Jack, a clever and brave hero who outwits giants, magical creatures, and even death using his wits and bravado. The book showcases a unique blend of fairy and folk tales, with Americanized versions that are dark, entertaining, and distinctly southern in style. The stories celebrate Jack as both a hero and a trickster, told with humor and in an authentic American voice that appeals to readers of all ages.
Anglo-American folk music has had much attention in recent years. We are beginning to discover and to recognize the rich heritage of our people in songs and ballads, folk hymns and carols, country dan...
