Stories and ancient myths have long been masterfully crafted to stir our deepest emotions, serving as powerful cautionary tales and moral fables that resonate through the corridors of time. These narratives intricately weave a rich tapestry of human experience, delving into the labyrinth of our psychology while illuminating the core values that underpin society. It's essential to recognize that not every journey culminates in joy or resolution; some stories may linger in our hearts, laden with sorrow, urging us to reflect deeply on our existence and choices.
Across the globe, fairy tales flourish in myriad forms, each glimmering with its own cultural brilliance. Yet, amidst this treasure trove, many hidden gems remain cloaked in shadow, often overlooked and underappreciated. This thoughtfully curated collection unveils an enchanting array of stories that not only captivate but also educate, stretching from the cherished myths of Ireland and Wales, deeply rooted in Celtic traditions and folklore, to the rich, intricate narratives emerging from the sun-drenched deserts of the Arabian Peninsula, the lush, vibrant rainforests of Borneo, and the diverse and eclectic cultures of Papua New Guinea.
Not only is this book visually stunning, adorned with exquisite illustrations and artful designs that breathe life into each tale, but it is also meticulously organized by geographical origin. This thoughtful arrangement invites readers on a mesmerizing journey through the diverse landscapes that shape these storytelling traditions. Each tale offers a unique glimpse into the values, fears, and aspirations of the cultures from which they stem, encapsulating the spirit of the people and the essence of their shared history. This collection is a true treasure trove for both casual readers seeking to expand their horizons and avid mythology lovers longing for deeper insights. Prepare to be enchanted by stories that inspire, provoke thought, and ignite the imagination!

I was really looking forward to this book, it did not fail. It’s such a nice thought fairytales but this book is the original version of fairytales, which is frightening. The graphics were outstanding and the stories keep you engaged. I appreciate NetGalley for this ARC

What a wild little treasure chest of spooky folklore! I am soooo here for it. It's like sitting around a campfire with someone who’s been everywhere and just casually starts telling you stories that get weirder and darker the longer you listen—except it’s all written down!

Every tale has that perfect mix of odd, grotesque, and oddly satisfying. Some are haunting, some are hilarious, and some are like… did that just happen?? I loved how each story started with a little background from the author about where or how he heard it. It made it feel intimate, like he was letting us in on secrets he picked up from some mysterious corner of the world. And the vibe? Totally old-world and eerie but with a cheeky wink. Love.

It also lowkey made me want to memorize at least one tale so I can casually drop it at a dinner party and be the most interesting person at the table. 😂

Huge thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!

The physical special edition of this book sounds so pretty and delightful with all the art by Luciana Nedelea. I have an ebook copy and even being smaller and causing formatting hiccups, the art i still beautiful.

Fairy tales are everywhere, but there are so many that are not know world wide. This collection of stories has range. More familiar myths coming from Ireland and Whales to more lesser known stories from Arabia, Borneo, Papa New Guinea. The books is formatted by location which is very nice.

Stories and old myths are meant to bring strong emotions. They were used as warnings or lessons passed down in a more manageable way. Sometimes there are no happy endings and so read with caution.

My favorite story is between "The man whose wife was married to the moon" and "The lazy housewife's comeuppance"