World Folklore
2 total works
Hmong culture has had an oral tradition for millennia, but the language itself did not even exist in written form until the 1950s. Compiled by famed author and storyteller Norma Livo and coauthor, Dia Cha, this is the first collection of authentic Hmong tales to be published commercially in the English language. Beginning with a description of Hmong history, culture, and folklore, the book includes 16 pages of full-color photographs of Hmong dress and needlework and 27 captivating tales divided into three sections: beginnings; how/why stories; and stories of love, magic, and fun. Appropriate for high school and adult readers, with selected stories appropriate for younger children, this collection is an important addition to multicultural units.
Enchanted Wood and Other Tales from Finland
by Norma J Livo and George Livo
Some of the world's oldest and richest folk traditions come from a country that most Americans know very little about-Finland (or Suomi). The fifth largest country in Europe (in land size), Finland is home to the third true folk epic, The Kalevala (The Land of Heroes). It is a country of lush forests and sparkling clear lakes where, in the northern regions, reindeer still roam. This collection introduces readers to the fascinating culture, history, geology, and folk literature of Finland. After a historical and cultural overview, the authors present 20 representative stories-including ancient tales from The Kalevala, humorous and moral tales (e.g., The Selfish Housewife and The Magic Wish)-and a fictionalized account of a witch trial in the 1600s. Holiday traditions, proverbs and sayings, and traditional recipes embellish this collection and will tantalize and intrigue readers. Color plates illustrate the land, the people, and artistic traditions of this wondrous people.