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Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark Chronicle Books — Occult Philosophy

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Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark Chronicle Books

Name: Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark Chronicle Books
Price: 26.95 USD
Availability: InStock
ISBN: 9781452174471

✍️ Chronicle Books, Ulla Thynell

Reader Score

4.6

(1 review)

$26.95 ~~$35.00~~ Save $8.05 (23%)

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📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

This exquisite collection unearths sixteen traditional narratives from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark. Originally transcribed by 19th-century folklorists, these tales transport readers to a fantastical world teeming with mythical creatures, courageous adventurers, and profound lessons. Ulla Thynell's luminous contemporary illustrations breathe new life into dragons, princesses, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights, crafting an anthology that is both enchanting and occasionally disquieting, perfectly capturing the spirit of Nordic storytelling for a modern audience.

Chronicle Books; , Thynell, Ulla

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Occult Philosophy

Praise for this book

“are the latest installments in Chronicle's handsomely illustrated series of traditional folk stories. It's the sort of volume that will age with readers.”

— Chicago Tribune

🏛 Chronicle Books 📅 2019 📖 168 pages 📔 Hardcover ISBN: 9781452174471

Fun Fact

This collection is a visual and narrative triumph, offering a compelling entry point into the rich tapestry of Nordic folklore. Ulla Thynell's striking illustrations truly elevate the experience, transforming traditional narratives into vibrant, living art. It excels as a beautifully presented anthology, ideal for those seeking enchantment and a broad overview. Readers seeking deep scholarly analysis or exhaustive regional variants might find it less comprehensive, but as a gateway to Northern myths, it's unparalleled.

📝 Description: Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark Chronicle Books

A deluxe volume of 16 traditional Nordic folk tales that is sure to impress any fan of cultural and mythological literature with impactful and stunning illustrations by contemporary artist Ulla Thynell. Welcome to a world of mystical adventure--where trolls haunt the snowy forests, terrifying monsters roam the open sea, a young woman journeys to the end of the world, and a boy proves he knows no fear. Translated and transcribed by folklorists in the 19th century, this collection of traditional tales from the enchanting world of Nordic folklore comes to life with glowing contemporary illustrations that conjure dragons, princesses, and the northern lights. At once magical, hilarious, cozy, and chilling, Nordic Tales will enthrall fairy tale fans and captivate those interested in the rich history of Nordic culture. POPULAR SERIES: Designed for diehard fairy tale and folklore lovers, the Tales series gives new life to traditional stories. In addition to Nordic Tales, discover Ghostly Tales, Tales of Japan, Celtic Tales, Tales of India, Tales of East Africa, and more. BEAUTIFUL GIFT: With its bold hardcover design, a satin ribbon page marker, and a striking full-page illustration for each story, Nordic Tales makes an impressive gift. Perfect for fans of fairy tales, ghost stories, Greek mythology, Roman mythology, Chinese mythology, Celtic mythology, and folklore and cultural studies from around the globe. READERS LOVE IT: With hundreds of 5-star ratings, reviewers rave that this "absolutely beautiful book" is "a wonderful compilation."Perfect for: Collectors of illustrated classics or artfully designed books Anyone who enjoys timeless stories, from the fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm to Egyptian mythology to Greek classics Adding to the shelf alongside books like D'Aulaires' Book of Norse Myths, Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman, Stephen Fry's Greek Mythology trilogy (Mythos, Heroes, Troy), or Madeline Miller's Circe and Song of Achilles

💎 Expert review

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💎

Esoterica Books editorial team

Occult literature desk

This anthology succeeds in capturing the spirit of Nordic storytelling through Ulla Thynell’s contemporary illustrations and carefully selected traditional narratives. It is an exquisite visual and literary experience that balances enchantment with a hint of unease. However, it may not suit readers expecting rigorous historical documentation or strictly academic analysis of folkloric structures. Those seeking purely happy endings or sanitized versions of folklore might find the occasional disquieting elements unsettling. It is best suited for aesthetic appreciation and casual reading rather than scholarly study. The collection’s strength lies in its atmospheric immersion rather than exhaustive cultural critique, making it a beautiful but superficial addition to serious mythological libraries.

✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

Readers seeking a gentle yet evocative entry into Northern European mythology will find this collection deeply rewarding. It is ideal for those who appreciate the atmospheric beauty of folklore without requiring dense academic analysis. The luminous illustrations make it a visual delight, while the accessible narratives offer profound lessons wrapped in enchantment. Those who enjoy tales of courageous adventurers, mythical creatures like trolls and dragons, and the mysterious allure of the Northern Lights will discover a perfect blend of charm and occasional disquiet. It invites you to journey into ancient forests and fearsome seas, providing a timeless escape that resonates with both children and adults seeking authentic, unadulterated folk magic.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Esoterica Books —

⭐ Esoterica editorial review Editorial rating 4.6/5

★★★★★

If you're drawn to the ancient whispers of the North, seeking rich mythological narratives, or simply desire a beautifully illustrated anthology of timeless folk tales, this collection awaits. It’s perfect for those who appreciate cultural depth and imaginative storytelling.

Reader rating

4.6

Based on 1 reviews

Esoterica Books editorial team

This anthology succeeds in capturing the spirit of Nordic storytelling through Ulla Thynell’s contemporary illustrations and carefully selected traditional narratives. It is an exquisite visual and literary experience that balances enchantment with a hint of unease. However, it may not suit readers expecting rigorous historical documentation or strictly academic analysis of folkloric structures. Those seeking purely happy endings or sanitized versions of folklore might find the occasional disquieting elements unsettling. It is best suited for aesthetic appreciation and casual reading rather than scholarly study. The collection’s strength lies in its atmospheric immersion rather than exhaustive cultural critique, making it a beautiful but superficial addition to serious mythological libraries.

❓ Frequently asked questions

While many tales offer universal appeal and magical wonder, some contain elements that are "chilling" or feature "terrifying monsters," reflecting the authentic nature of traditional folklore. Parental discretion is advised for very young children.

This volume is particularly notable for its curated selection of traditional Nordic tales brought to life by Ulla Thynell's distinctively glowing and impactful contemporary illustrations, offering a fresh visual interpretation of classic narratives.

📖 Who should read this

🎯 Key themes and symbolism

Mythical Beasts & Legends

Explore a captivating bestiary of Nordic imagination, from the lumbering trolls dwelling in snowy woodlands to formidable sea monsters lurking in icy waters. These narratives frequently feature encounters with such creatures, often challenging protagonists to display wit, bravery, or kindness in the face of the unknown.

Journeys of Courage

Central to many of these stories is the theme of intrepid exploration and personal growth. Characters embark on epic voyages, whether a young woman venturing to the world's edge or a boy confronting his deepest fears, illustrating the transformative power of perseverance and inner strength against formidable odds.

Preserving Cultural Lore

This volume stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Nordic oral traditions, meticulously gathered and documented by folklorists in the 19th century. Each tale offers a window into the ancient beliefs, societal values, and imaginative spirit that have shaped the rich cultural tapestry of the Nordic lands.

📜 Historical context

These narratives emerged from a vibrant oral tradition, meticulously collected and documented by 19th-century folklorists who sought to preserve the cultural heritage of the Nordic regions. Their work ensured these tales, once shared around hearths and campfires, could endure, offering insights into the pre-industrial beliefs, moral frameworks, and imaginative landscapes of these northern European societies.

📚 Glossary

Folklorists
Mythological Literature
Trolls

📔 Questions to reflect on

Which mythical creature from Nordic folklore do you find most fascinating, and what do you believe it symbolizes about human nature or the natural world?
Consider a time you faced a challenge that felt like journeying 'to the end of the world.' How did you find courage, and what did you learn from the experience?
How do the 'cozy and chilling' elements within these tales reflect the dualities or complexities you observe in your own life or culture?