Elder Tales : Stories of Wisdom and Courage From Around the World

Traditional folktales from around the world celebrate the wisdom, courage, and even the follies of elders, presenting them as crones, wise men, sages, magic helpers, and fools. Arranged by story type, these are tales that can be used in the classroom and library, as a springboard for cultural comparisons and discussion of how wisdom is shared between generations, and how elders contribute to and are perceived by various societies. It is also a fine resource for storytellers performing in senior centers, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes.Think folk and fairy tales are all about mischievous animals, beautiful princesses, and handsome princes? Think again. One of the most prominent themes in folklore is that of the strength and role of the elders, a theme that deserves revisiting today. This collection gathers traditional folktales from around the world to celebrate the wisdom, courage, and even the follies of elders.Arranged by story type, these are tales that can be used in the classroom and library, as a springboard for cultural comparisons and discussion of how wisdom is shared between generations, and how elders contribute to and are perceived by various societies.

Think folk and fairy tales are all about mischievous animals, beautiful princesses, and handsome princes? Think again. One of the most prominent themes in folklore is that of the strength and role of the elders, a theme that deserves revisiting today. This collection gathers traditional folktales from around the world to celebrate the wisdom, courage, and even the follies of elders.

Arranged by story type, these are tales that can be used in the classroom and library, as a springboard for cultural comparisons and discussion of how wisdom is shared between generations, and how elders contribute to and are perceived by various societies.

School Library Journal

Most folktale anthologies contain stories about old folks, and Keding's seniors come in all varieties: wise, foolish, clever, tricky, generous, miserly, loving, selfish, and heroic, and all serve as master teachers. All but two of the tales are the author's retellings of known tales and reflect his love and respect for his grandmother who inspired his Stories of Hope and Spirit (August House, 2004). This volume is intended primarily for readers rather than tellers. The stories are perfect for adults and young people in middle and high school. The Devil and Death appear as characters in several selections. Keding lists questions for students to engage elders in recalling their old stories, and he provides discussion guides for older audiences to use. Pagination is erratic toward the end of the book, and, most puzzling, the bibliography has ISBNs but no publication dates. This collection is an enjoyable companion to Jane Yolen's Gray Heroes (Penguin, 1999).-Judy Sokoll, Florida Storytelling Association, Naples

Presents a collection of folktales from around the world that focus on the wisdom and courage of elders.