Long before people could read or write, they were telling stories, sometimes to explain the wonders of the natural world, sometimes to describe their own history, but always with the intention of entertaining their audience. It is these stories which have been passed down through the centuries as folktales.
This wide-ranging collection contains over 250 such tales, drawn from every part of the world. They include European favourites, such as 'Cinderella' and 'Hansel and Grethel, as well as the creation myths of the Pacific islanders and the delightful animal tales of West Africa.
Since many aspects of the human experience are the same the world over, certain themes recur from country to country, but in each case the local setting gives a particular flavour to the story. Lively and colourful, fascinating in its diversity, Classic Folktales From Around the World will appeal to adults and children alike.