Asbjornsen, Peter Christen and Moe, Jorgen. Norwegian Folktales. New York : Viking Press, 1960.
Plot: This collection of fairy tales from Norway includes several classic stories. A few stories almost seem to copy the Germanic tales of the Grimm brothers. Many have their own style, however. Popular themes include fools being wise, heroes defeating monsters, and animals showing human sensibility.
Genre: Fairy Tales
Reading Level: Like most of the books reviewed this week, someone in middle or high school can read this without too much difficulty. Unlike many of the other books reviewed this week, I would feel comfortable recommending the collection to someone with small children.
Similar Titles: The Norse Myths, Norwegian Troll Tales
Personal Thoughts: While I am found of folk and fairy tales in general, this was one of my favorite books to read this week. The tales play on much-loved concepts of heroes (expected and unexpected), trickery, justice, and happy endings. Illustrations copying the style of traditional woodcuts accompany many of the stories. Simply stated, the book is fun to read.
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