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Household Lore: Folklore, Traditions and Remedies For Every Room in Your Home
- GenresHistory
256 pages, Hardcover
Published November 11, 2025
5 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
Liza Frank
7 books3 followersLiza Frank grew up watching B-movies and dreaming of being Chrissie Hynde before working backstage in theatre and film for over a decade. She has written extensively about folklore for The Everyday Lore Project and for a Masters in Folklore Studies from University of Hertfordshire, as well as teaching literacy and creative writing in primary and secondary schools. Out of the many traditions she's tried, her favourite was recreating a Gruel Thursday ritual off the beach in Brighton. That and competitive mince pie eating. She also writes an agony aunt column using folklore to solve dilemmas, and searches for sons of preacher men to persuade them to teach her something. In 2007, her slightly wild photographic exhibition was published as the book My Celebrity Boyfriend. She still dreams of being a rock chick.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
October 17, 2025
I received a free copy of, Household Lore, by Liza Frank, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I did not realize how much household lore, there is. This is a nice book on traditions and folklore, in an around your house, including your pillow.
November 12, 2025
This book is an absolutely delightful collection of folklore from around the world relating to the home. As a whole and room-by-room, from roof to cellar and everything inbetween, there’s snippets of wisdom, advice and some admittedly just plain weird traditions passed down through the ages, which make for truly fascinating reading.
I found myself recognising some of the ‘old wives tales’, such as which plants to grow outside the door for good luck, or bedroom charms for peaceful sleep. But there’s no way I could have possibly heard all of the stories contained here!
I was glad to see that the book isn’t just focused on one country, era or spiritual tradition. There are tales from every corner of the earth here (well this planet is our home, after all). Spirits of place exist everywhere, be they mischievous or benevolent ‘fair folk’, and while Sir Terry Pratchett’s God of Things Stuck in Drawers may not feature here, the kitchen alone can be home to many. The Roman penates of the hearth, Eastern European kikimora behind the oven, or - as my Welsh friends know well! - the multiple uses (besides cooking) for a cauldron.
There’s recipes here for seasonal and festive fare, the history of those ingredients and their connection to sacred days, and historic natural remedies to consider for both internal and external ailments (note: do not drink snails in barley water to cure a cough!).
Yes, there are some… shall we say ‘outdated’ suggestions here too, included very clearly to raise a smile. I loved the sense of hobbit-like merriment sprinkled throughout the pages, making the book itself feel warm and welcoming. Rather than focusing on intellectual historiography, Liza Frank knows that the subject-matter itself is mostly made up of hearsay. She has no qualms about making jokes to imply that some remedies may not be the most practical (there’s quite a few that involve wee, for example!), and I was reminded of the educational style of ‘Horrible Histories’ - yes, this is fascinating knowledge, but do try to think before eating something random you found in the garden!
There’s gorgeous artwork as well, from cats to cutlery, making me think that younger folk just encountering magic for the first time may enjoy picking the truths from the silliness with their parents.
Altogether a beautiful, enjoyable and informative book that throws light on aspects of our shared heritage as humans making safe haven, passing on the stories that keep our fires burning safely.
I was kindly sent an early copy of this book by the publisher, but the above opinions are entirely my own.
I found myself recognising some of the ‘old wives tales’, such as which plants to grow outside the door for good luck, or bedroom charms for peaceful sleep. But there’s no way I could have possibly heard all of the stories contained here!
I was glad to see that the book isn’t just focused on one country, era or spiritual tradition. There are tales from every corner of the earth here (well this planet is our home, after all). Spirits of place exist everywhere, be they mischievous or benevolent ‘fair folk’, and while Sir Terry Pratchett’s God of Things Stuck in Drawers may not feature here, the kitchen alone can be home to many. The Roman penates of the hearth, Eastern European kikimora behind the oven, or - as my Welsh friends know well! - the multiple uses (besides cooking) for a cauldron.
There’s recipes here for seasonal and festive fare, the history of those ingredients and their connection to sacred days, and historic natural remedies to consider for both internal and external ailments (note: do not drink snails in barley water to cure a cough!).
Yes, there are some… shall we say ‘outdated’ suggestions here too, included very clearly to raise a smile. I loved the sense of hobbit-like merriment sprinkled throughout the pages, making the book itself feel warm and welcoming. Rather than focusing on intellectual historiography, Liza Frank knows that the subject-matter itself is mostly made up of hearsay. She has no qualms about making jokes to imply that some remedies may not be the most practical (there’s quite a few that involve wee, for example!), and I was reminded of the educational style of ‘Horrible Histories’ - yes, this is fascinating knowledge, but do try to think before eating something random you found in the garden!
There’s gorgeous artwork as well, from cats to cutlery, making me think that younger folk just encountering magic for the first time may enjoy picking the truths from the silliness with their parents.
Altogether a beautiful, enjoyable and informative book that throws light on aspects of our shared heritage as humans making safe haven, passing on the stories that keep our fires burning safely.
I was kindly sent an early copy of this book by the publisher, but the above opinions are entirely my own.
December 27, 2025
Despite the approach of the author to sometimes have box-outs within box-outs, this is a readable and interesting guide to folklore ideas. I think the idea of us testing it all and using it as life hacks from a bygone age is daft, as the chapter-launching illustrations, that throw the full gamut at everything, prove it's probably impossible. For one thing there are not one but three things to have in the corners of our attic space to keep it lucky, or not on fire, or witches out, or whatever the case may be. And there's nothing to say whether crowded corners actually work.
Still, this book tends to work, and achieve what it sets out to do – we have a top-down trip through the house, and out into the garden, to see what we should be doing, as regards shoving things up chimney breasts, or which way our bed should be pointing, or what to do if a black cat spills salt all over a white carpet, or something.
I jest with the last, but it's not actually the lumping of all the advice, from all areas of the world, into one tip, that makes this feel crowded. We're told what to expect if it so happens that a cock crows on our threshold at the same time a broom falls out the door. That's a small 'if', surely?! The cockamamie continues, of course, into what we're expected to find, have, steal or do to get the curse lifted. So many are the mentions of corpses the author would wish us not to dig up, or animal parts she would like us to not actually engage with, that "bile of bullock" ends up being an ingredient that she doesn't even bat an eyelid to.
And if you want cockamamie, here, allegedly, cats can levitate and shift our abode, if they want to.
All that means this probably does contain some wise advice, but it can be hidden. There's a line about planting camomile alongside ailing plants as it peps them up, but it's buried in so much tosh you even doubt that as being no more than an old wives' tale. But again, this succeeds in its intent – it can be a rush to read too many pages at once, as we helter-skelter from Japanese oni to Irish ideas to Central Europe and back to rural England, but this is just as much the reference book as the to-be-read-right-through guide.
There is a heck of a lot here about ways to find out the identity of your spouse-to-be. I dare say the author has something helping her find her next reader-to-be. And there's little here, should you be so inclined, to stop that being you – this is a very competent and attractive volume. A strong four stars (or dessicated sea urchins, or four something…).
Still, this book tends to work, and achieve what it sets out to do – we have a top-down trip through the house, and out into the garden, to see what we should be doing, as regards shoving things up chimney breasts, or which way our bed should be pointing, or what to do if a black cat spills salt all over a white carpet, or something.
I jest with the last, but it's not actually the lumping of all the advice, from all areas of the world, into one tip, that makes this feel crowded. We're told what to expect if it so happens that a cock crows on our threshold at the same time a broom falls out the door. That's a small 'if', surely?! The cockamamie continues, of course, into what we're expected to find, have, steal or do to get the curse lifted. So many are the mentions of corpses the author would wish us not to dig up, or animal parts she would like us to not actually engage with, that "bile of bullock" ends up being an ingredient that she doesn't even bat an eyelid to.
And if you want cockamamie, here, allegedly, cats can levitate and shift our abode, if they want to.
All that means this probably does contain some wise advice, but it can be hidden. There's a line about planting camomile alongside ailing plants as it peps them up, but it's buried in so much tosh you even doubt that as being no more than an old wives' tale. But again, this succeeds in its intent – it can be a rush to read too many pages at once, as we helter-skelter from Japanese oni to Irish ideas to Central Europe and back to rural England, but this is just as much the reference book as the to-be-read-right-through guide.
There is a heck of a lot here about ways to find out the identity of your spouse-to-be. I dare say the author has something helping her find her next reader-to-be. And there's little here, should you be so inclined, to stop that being you – this is a very competent and attractive volume. A strong four stars (or dessicated sea urchins, or four something…).
November 9, 2025
Book Review: Household Lore: Folklore, Traditions and Remedies For Every Room in Your Home by Liza Frank
Rating: 5 Stars
I recently picked up Household Lore by Liza Frank, and it was an absolute gem! From the moment I saw the charming, eye-catching cover, I knew I was in for something special—and the book didn’t disappoint. It’s a delightful journey through the hidden folklore and traditions tucked away in every corner of your home, from the attic rafters down to the cellar steps.
The book takes you on a room-by-room tour, revealing fascinating rituals, remedies, and superstitions from cultures around the world. For example, did you know that planting holly might keep lightning at bay? Or that offering someone soap could actually end a friendship? These quirky tidbits are sprinkled throughout, alongside curious advice like how to handle knocking a fork off the table or ward off unwelcome spirits while you sleep.
Each chapter focuses on a different part of the house. You’ll learn how your roof might predict future events, what ancient wisdom says about aphrodisiacs in the bedroom, and even discover old-fashioned hangover cures in the dining room. It’s like having a folklore encyclopedia mixed with practical household tips and a dash of spooky charm.
What really sets this book apart is Liza Frank’s witty and engaging writing style. She manages to blend humor with fascinating facts effortlessly, making it not just informative but genuinely fun to read. The whimsical illustrations and interactive elements like games and tables add an extra layer of enjoyment.
This book is perfect for anyone who loves global folklore, practical home remedies, or simply wants a unique coffee table book that sparks interesting conversations with guests. Whether you’re looking to learn something new or just want a cozy read filled with quirky knowledge, Household Lore is definitely worth adding to your collection. Five stars from me!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Rating: 5 Stars
I recently picked up Household Lore by Liza Frank, and it was an absolute gem! From the moment I saw the charming, eye-catching cover, I knew I was in for something special—and the book didn’t disappoint. It’s a delightful journey through the hidden folklore and traditions tucked away in every corner of your home, from the attic rafters down to the cellar steps.
The book takes you on a room-by-room tour, revealing fascinating rituals, remedies, and superstitions from cultures around the world. For example, did you know that planting holly might keep lightning at bay? Or that offering someone soap could actually end a friendship? These quirky tidbits are sprinkled throughout, alongside curious advice like how to handle knocking a fork off the table or ward off unwelcome spirits while you sleep.
Each chapter focuses on a different part of the house. You’ll learn how your roof might predict future events, what ancient wisdom says about aphrodisiacs in the bedroom, and even discover old-fashioned hangover cures in the dining room. It’s like having a folklore encyclopedia mixed with practical household tips and a dash of spooky charm.
What really sets this book apart is Liza Frank’s witty and engaging writing style. She manages to blend humor with fascinating facts effortlessly, making it not just informative but genuinely fun to read. The whimsical illustrations and interactive elements like games and tables add an extra layer of enjoyment.
This book is perfect for anyone who loves global folklore, practical home remedies, or simply wants a unique coffee table book that sparks interesting conversations with guests. Whether you’re looking to learn something new or just want a cozy read filled with quirky knowledge, Household Lore is definitely worth adding to your collection. Five stars from me!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
October 29, 2025
Thoughts:
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I learnt so much from this book. I knew some of the things such as the First Footing and crossing on the stairs but thought I’d have a go with this book to see if there’s any more I needed to know. Although some of the points are a bit archaic there are some points that are easy to apply in our daily life and ones like th eFolklore First Aid Kit can be great ideas for first points of call for sickness (especially helpful as coughs and colds are specifically mentioned and I can’t take cold and flu tablets so they will be really helpful for me going forward.The illustrations were complimentary and I really liked the dates for your diary but at the end of each section making it easier to mark out things we want to observe going forward.
Favourite Quote:
“Yet despite (or maybe stubbornly because of) interference from those who naysay, who psychologize, who condescend, who don't believe or don't partake, the folklore keeps rumbling on, continuing to be shared with new audiences and practised and changed to suit, and it will endure until we're all mote, the crops fail, the darkness lingers, and we find ourselves dwelling or perpetual winter. And even then, someone will search for and stumble upon something that works - because ultimately that's who we are.”
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I learnt so much from this book. I knew some of the things such as the First Footing and crossing on the stairs but thought I’d have a go with this book to see if there’s any more I needed to know. Although some of the points are a bit archaic there are some points that are easy to apply in our daily life and ones like th eFolklore First Aid Kit can be great ideas for first points of call for sickness (especially helpful as coughs and colds are specifically mentioned and I can’t take cold and flu tablets so they will be really helpful for me going forward.The illustrations were complimentary and I really liked the dates for your diary but at the end of each section making it easier to mark out things we want to observe going forward.
Favourite Quote:
“Yet despite (or maybe stubbornly because of) interference from those who naysay, who psychologize, who condescend, who don't believe or don't partake, the folklore keeps rumbling on, continuing to be shared with new audiences and practised and changed to suit, and it will endure until we're all mote, the crops fail, the darkness lingers, and we find ourselves dwelling or perpetual winter. And even then, someone will search for and stumble upon something that works - because ultimately that's who we are.”
October 30, 2025
If you love folklore from around the world, practical tips and advice about how to sleep better or ward off unwelcome guests (mundane and not), wonderfully drawings and some humor, this is the book for you.
I've been interestes in practical magic, folklore, and traditions of different cultures and times for ages, and this book is a nice and informative collection of bits of local wisdom (and not) from cultures around the world. What I truly enjoyed, apart from the content, is the main topic: the household. It's where we spend most of our time, where we like to feel at home, safe, and thus this book gives you an insight into what people have been doing for centuries to keep their houses safe and cosy. Also, the writing style is wonderful: informative without being pedant, because the author is witty and funny, as if you were having a casual after-dinner conversation with a friend who knows an awful lot about folklore worldwide.
With its drawings, games, tables and similar, this book is also the perfect book to keep on your coffee table in your living room and to use as a fun conversation starter.
I'm grateful to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC of this wonderful book — of which I'll definitely buy the physical copy!
I've been interestes in practical magic, folklore, and traditions of different cultures and times for ages, and this book is a nice and informative collection of bits of local wisdom (and not) from cultures around the world. What I truly enjoyed, apart from the content, is the main topic: the household. It's where we spend most of our time, where we like to feel at home, safe, and thus this book gives you an insight into what people have been doing for centuries to keep their houses safe and cosy. Also, the writing style is wonderful: informative without being pedant, because the author is witty and funny, as if you were having a casual after-dinner conversation with a friend who knows an awful lot about folklore worldwide.
With its drawings, games, tables and similar, this book is also the perfect book to keep on your coffee table in your living room and to use as a fun conversation starter.
I'm grateful to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC of this wonderful book — of which I'll definitely buy the physical copy!
December 29, 2025
I don’t consider myself especially superstitious, but this book did make me feel like I should be extremely careful with my fingernail clippings.
Household Lore is a fascinating, well-researched dive into the traditions and superstitions behind everyday sayings and household habits most of us never think twice about. It’s well organized, moves room by room through the home, and is filled with dark, folksy illustrations that I genuinely loved. I lost count of how many times I thought, “oh, that’s where that comes from!”
Most of these customs trace back to warding off hexes, witches, fairies, and various elven creatures, which is both entertaining and oddly sobering. The book manages to be informative without taking itself too seriously, while still casually reminding you not to put raw meat or animal poop on wounds - which felt like an important clarification.
Maybe I’m not superstitious, but I might also be looking into roof spires and lilac bushes. Just in case.
(3.75 stars rounded up)
I received this book as an eARC.
Household Lore is a fascinating, well-researched dive into the traditions and superstitions behind everyday sayings and household habits most of us never think twice about. It’s well organized, moves room by room through the home, and is filled with dark, folksy illustrations that I genuinely loved. I lost count of how many times I thought, “oh, that’s where that comes from!”
Most of these customs trace back to warding off hexes, witches, fairies, and various elven creatures, which is both entertaining and oddly sobering. The book manages to be informative without taking itself too seriously, while still casually reminding you not to put raw meat or animal poop on wounds - which felt like an important clarification.
Maybe I’m not superstitious, but I might also be looking into roof spires and lilac bushes. Just in case.
(3.75 stars rounded up)
I received this book as an eARC.
November 15, 2025
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
This is a fun book to gift at a housewarming party. The illustrations are very pretty, as is the typesetting, and it's overflowing with fun facts and beliefs about the home and everything around it.
The facts are fun, but this means the source attributions are broad and vague. It's lighter than, say, Bill Bryson's book on the home. There are no footnotes but there is an selected biography. This means it's not the type of book I like. Listing folk beliefs from all over the world and all over history with no further exploration than a cheeky "Don't try this at home" is not the way to my heart. I would have liked it as a young to older teen growing out of Horrible Histories, though.
This is a fun book to gift at a housewarming party. The illustrations are very pretty, as is the typesetting, and it's overflowing with fun facts and beliefs about the home and everything around it.
The facts are fun, but this means the source attributions are broad and vague. It's lighter than, say, Bill Bryson's book on the home. There are no footnotes but there is an selected biography. This means it's not the type of book I like. Listing folk beliefs from all over the world and all over history with no further exploration than a cheeky "Don't try this at home" is not the way to my heart. I would have liked it as a young to older teen growing out of Horrible Histories, though.
October 14, 2025
First off, don’t make the mistake I did and think this has actual homemaking advice. It is a charmingly illustrated book of ancient tidbits about folklore beliefs from around the world from the old days. It’s stuff like build your roof on a sunny day and what the origins of the term eavesdropping are. I ended up skimming it after the start because I’m just not that interested in the beliefs about tiles in Turkey in the Middle Ages or when you were supposed to clip your toenails, but if you love this sort of history it’s well done. The black and white illustrations are wonderful too.
I read a temporary digital copy of this book for review.
I read a temporary digital copy of this book for review.
January 4, 2026
What a charming book! It leans into the wacky and weird of historical lore without making fun of it or endorsing it, it strikes the perfect tone! It's mostly western folklore, but there are mentions of folklore from other places, as it promises in the intro. It is so fun to see which different traditions agree with each other and which have different but complementary ideas, and which outright contradict each other!
This would be a fantastic gift for a new homeowner or anyone who enjoys superstition and myths. I personally would have liked to see citations, but I'm a nerd!
Thank you to NetGalley for the free copy, all opinions are my own.
This would be a fantastic gift for a new homeowner or anyone who enjoys superstition and myths. I personally would have liked to see citations, but I'm a nerd!
Thank you to NetGalley for the free copy, all opinions are my own.
October 13, 2025
Household Lore by Liza Frank is an entertaining read that offers a lighthearted exploration of folklore and traditions. While it didn't provide deep insights or lasting impact, it served as a pleasant diversion. The book's charm lies in its whimsical approach to everyday rituals, making it a fun choice for casual reading.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC and to the author and publisher for sharing this book with me in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC and to the author and publisher for sharing this book with me in exchange for my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews