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Nature's Folklore
Lore of the Land: Folklore & Wisdom from the Wild Earth
Unearth the secrets of our natural world with The Lore of the Land, a richly illustrated compendium of folklore and wisdom from the land, skies, and seas.
From thundering rivers to shady groves, flickering marshes to lightless caves, and from snow-capped mountains to the depths of the ocean, discover the folklore of Earth's wildest places. Stories and spirits abound in these land- and seascapes, where traditional wisdom and mysterious magics have intertwined over centuries.
Each of the six chapters covers a different natural landscape, revealing the worldwide folklore surrounding Woodlands, Seas & Oceans, Wetlands, Mountains, Rivers & Streams,and Hills & Caves. Beginning with tales from cultures spanning the globe, each chapter then dives into the legends of how these places were formed, their place in the human imagination,and their natural and otherworldly denizens.
Learn how the forests hold up the sky in Māori tradition; how in Ireland, seaweed was once thought to predict the weather; and that the ancient Greeks believed Mount Etna housed the fiery forge of the gods. All this and more is accompanied by beautiful artwork based on real folklore, uncovering the secrets of our natural world as never before.
A treasury of fascinating tales and ancient wisdom, The Lore of the Land is sure to fire the imaginations of young nature-lovers, and delight anyone who has ever wondered whether there is more to our natural world than meets the eye.
Also in the series:
The Lore of the Wild: Folklore and Wisdom from Nature
From thundering rivers to shady groves, flickering marshes to lightless caves, and from snow-capped mountains to the depths of the ocean, discover the folklore of Earth's wildest places. Stories and spirits abound in these land- and seascapes, where traditional wisdom and mysterious magics have intertwined over centuries.
Each of the six chapters covers a different natural landscape, revealing the worldwide folklore surrounding Woodlands, Seas & Oceans, Wetlands, Mountains, Rivers & Streams,and Hills & Caves. Beginning with tales from cultures spanning the globe, each chapter then dives into the legends of how these places were formed, their place in the human imagination,and their natural and otherworldly denizens.
Learn how the forests hold up the sky in Māori tradition; how in Ireland, seaweed was once thought to predict the weather; and that the ancient Greeks believed Mount Etna housed the fiery forge of the gods. All this and more is accompanied by beautiful artwork based on real folklore, uncovering the secrets of our natural world as never before.
A treasury of fascinating tales and ancient wisdom, The Lore of the Land is sure to fire the imaginations of young nature-lovers, and delight anyone who has ever wondered whether there is more to our natural world than meets the eye.
Also in the series:
The Lore of the Wild: Folklore and Wisdom from Nature
77 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2022
12 people are currently reading
394 people want to read
About the author
Claire Cock-Starkey
24 books25 followersI started out in media, working at BBC Radio Four and Five Live before going on to work at LBC. From there I found my spiritual home working with Ben Schott, starting out as researcher on the Sporting, Gaming and Idling Miscellany. I went on to help develop the format for Schott’s Almanac, working as Assistant Editor on the first two books before rising to become UK & Series Editor on the four subsequent UK books, three German and three US editions.
Working with Ben I also had the opportunity to assist with various miscellaneous offerings for The Daily Telegraph, The Times, Conde Nast Traveller, New York Times, Vanity Fair and Smythson diaries.
After producing a small team of children I decided it was time to set up on my own, so since 2011 I have been busily working as a freelance writer and editor – juggling writing books and articles, project managing a vast array of Lego building operations and editing and indexing a number of non-fiction titles.
I am happiest perched in the British Library reading rooms surrounded by a pile of obscure and fascinating books researching my next offering.
Working with Ben I also had the opportunity to assist with various miscellaneous offerings for The Daily Telegraph, The Times, Conde Nast Traveller, New York Times, Vanity Fair and Smythson diaries.
After producing a small team of children I decided it was time to set up on my own, so since 2011 I have been busily working as a freelance writer and editor – juggling writing books and articles, project managing a vast array of Lego building operations and editing and indexing a number of non-fiction titles.
I am happiest perched in the British Library reading rooms surrounded by a pile of obscure and fascinating books researching my next offering.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
September 15, 2022
An eclectic collection of folktales and folklore from around the world. Mesmerising and fascinating!
The overall content is divided into six sections based on geographical features: ‘Forests’, ‘Seas and Oceans’, ‘Mountains’, ‘Hills and Valleys’, ‘Rivers and Lakes’, and ‘Wetlands’. Each section begins with a folktale connected to that natural feature, and then has a few more pages on various ideas connected to them such as monsters, fae folk, cultural myths and legends, plants, and so on.
The research is meticulous. I, for one, never thought that legends about water bodies could be divided across three separate sections and yet be so comprehensive! The snippets are taken from varied countries and cultures, including indigenous ones. The diversity ensures that the myths and other trivia do not feel repetitive. There is a helpful glossary at the end.
Every single page has a strong essence of nature, as is clear from the sections. I loved how clear the original myths were about the importance of nature in creation and life. The illustrations are also nature-themed and so apt for the collection. Every page has a classic look to it, and the sketches feel “natural” in both its meanings. The detailing on the individual elements of the art is outstanding.
The only reasons I am not going with the full five stars is that I would have loved a few more folktales to be a part of the collection.
If you have/know an imaginative young one who loves nature as well as folktales, this would make for the perfect gift. Strongly recommended. The official target readership for this book is ages 6 to 12, Grades 1 to 7.
4.75 stars.
My thanks to Wide Eyed Editions, Quarto Group, and Edelweiss+ for the DRC of “Lore of the Land: Folklore and Wisdom from the Wild Earth”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
———————————————
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Facebook | Twitter
The overall content is divided into six sections based on geographical features: ‘Forests’, ‘Seas and Oceans’, ‘Mountains’, ‘Hills and Valleys’, ‘Rivers and Lakes’, and ‘Wetlands’. Each section begins with a folktale connected to that natural feature, and then has a few more pages on various ideas connected to them such as monsters, fae folk, cultural myths and legends, plants, and so on.
The research is meticulous. I, for one, never thought that legends about water bodies could be divided across three separate sections and yet be so comprehensive! The snippets are taken from varied countries and cultures, including indigenous ones. The diversity ensures that the myths and other trivia do not feel repetitive. There is a helpful glossary at the end.
Every single page has a strong essence of nature, as is clear from the sections. I loved how clear the original myths were about the importance of nature in creation and life. The illustrations are also nature-themed and so apt for the collection. Every page has a classic look to it, and the sketches feel “natural” in both its meanings. The detailing on the individual elements of the art is outstanding.
The only reasons I am not going with the full five stars is that I would have loved a few more folktales to be a part of the collection.
If you have/know an imaginative young one who loves nature as well as folktales, this would make for the perfect gift. Strongly recommended. The official target readership for this book is ages 6 to 12, Grades 1 to 7.
4.75 stars.
My thanks to Wide Eyed Editions, Quarto Group, and Edelweiss+ for the DRC of “Lore of the Land: Folklore and Wisdom from the Wild Earth”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
———————————————
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Facebook | Twitter
September 20, 2022
4.5 Stars
The book is a collection of folklore from different cultures and countries about the earth (land, water, hills, caves, etc.)
It has Ireland, England, Mayan, Nordic mythologies (and many more), fairy rings/ witch rings, flower faeries, Indigenous Tejas Legend of North Wind and Spanish Moss, moss/ grass for herbal healing, Greek dryads and tree bonding, Danish Huldre, Slavic baba Yaga, Cajun werewolf, the sound of a conch shell, red coral and Medusa, mermaids and merrows, ningyo (Japanese mer-monkey), mountains, dwarfs, trolls, volcanoes (Pele, Hawaiian goddess), mountain spirits, hills and valleys, megaliths, Anie’s Hill Ireland, stone circles, dragons and caves, rivers, streams, lakes and their mythical creatures.
The underlying themes across the indigenous folklore overlap almost throughout the book. Our ancestors used tales and mythical creatures to make people respect nature. They feared evil creatures and tried to be good to avoid being attacked or captured by the creatures that could harm them.
The illustrations are expansive, vivid, and wonderful. Some of them are just too cute (though Hulders and mermaids could have been prettier and less scary). Kids will absolutely love the color scheme and illustrations.
The myths and stories are provided in a single paragraph. The brevity helps retain more information. I wish the book had more Hindu (we have so many!) and Asian folklore. There are a few, but not enough when you look at the entire compilation.
To summarize, Lore of the Land: Folklore Wisdom from the Wild Earth is a beautiful collection of folklore about the earth, nature, and everything she offers. It’s time we learned from the lore and respected nature.
I received an ARC from Edelweiss+ and Quarto Publishing Group – Wide Eyed Editions and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*****
A big thank you to Rosh for the recco.
The book is a collection of folklore from different cultures and countries about the earth (land, water, hills, caves, etc.)
It has Ireland, England, Mayan, Nordic mythologies (and many more), fairy rings/ witch rings, flower faeries, Indigenous Tejas Legend of North Wind and Spanish Moss, moss/ grass for herbal healing, Greek dryads and tree bonding, Danish Huldre, Slavic baba Yaga, Cajun werewolf, the sound of a conch shell, red coral and Medusa, mermaids and merrows, ningyo (Japanese mer-monkey), mountains, dwarfs, trolls, volcanoes (Pele, Hawaiian goddess), mountain spirits, hills and valleys, megaliths, Anie’s Hill Ireland, stone circles, dragons and caves, rivers, streams, lakes and their mythical creatures.
The underlying themes across the indigenous folklore overlap almost throughout the book. Our ancestors used tales and mythical creatures to make people respect nature. They feared evil creatures and tried to be good to avoid being attacked or captured by the creatures that could harm them.
The illustrations are expansive, vivid, and wonderful. Some of them are just too cute (though Hulders and mermaids could have been prettier and less scary). Kids will absolutely love the color scheme and illustrations.
The myths and stories are provided in a single paragraph. The brevity helps retain more information. I wish the book had more Hindu (we have so many!) and Asian folklore. There are a few, but not enough when you look at the entire compilation.
To summarize, Lore of the Land: Folklore Wisdom from the Wild Earth is a beautiful collection of folklore about the earth, nature, and everything she offers. It’s time we learned from the lore and respected nature.
I received an ARC from Edelweiss+ and Quarto Publishing Group – Wide Eyed Editions and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*****
A big thank you to Rosh for the recco.
September 30, 2022
A beautifully illustrated collection of folklore and folk tales. Divided into sections, mountains, hills and valleys, rivers and lakes, seas and oceans, and forests. Really interesting reading!
October 24, 2022
This is a beautifully written and illustrated collection of folklore and tales taken from varied countries and cultures. Each page tells of stories from all around the world about the forests to the oceans, plants, animals and woodland spirits/creatures.
My husband and I collect books on folklores and this one will definitely be part of our collection!
I want to thank NetGalley, Claire Cock-Starkey and Quarto Publishing Group – Wide Eyed Editions, Wide Eyed Editions for the e-ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are honest, my own and left voluntarily.
My husband and I collect books on folklores and this one will definitely be part of our collection!
I want to thank NetGalley, Claire Cock-Starkey and Quarto Publishing Group – Wide Eyed Editions, Wide Eyed Editions for the e-ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are honest, my own and left voluntarily.
December 24, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐ -- Gorgeous cover on this one!
This book is just so beautifully illustrated. I love the bold, bright colors used. The graphics are whimsical and eye catching. It's broken down into the following chapters...‘Forests’, ‘Seas and Oceans’, ‘Mountains’, ‘Hills and Valleys’, ‘Rivers and Lakes’, and ‘Wetlands’. Each chapter has a folk story from different parts of the world, followed by other little snippets of information about the chapter title. The one thing I had a minor issue with was the font used for the text. I found it a bit too small and hard to read. That said, I am half blind, so it could be just a "me" issue. 🤷🏻♀️ I found this book super interesting and I think it would make a splendid gift for young or old!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
This book is just so beautifully illustrated. I love the bold, bright colors used. The graphics are whimsical and eye catching. It's broken down into the following chapters...‘Forests’, ‘Seas and Oceans’, ‘Mountains’, ‘Hills and Valleys’, ‘Rivers and Lakes’, and ‘Wetlands’. Each chapter has a folk story from different parts of the world, followed by other little snippets of information about the chapter title. The one thing I had a minor issue with was the font used for the text. I found it a bit too small and hard to read. That said, I am half blind, so it could be just a "me" issue. 🤷🏻♀️ I found this book super interesting and I think it would make a splendid gift for young or old!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
Want to read
October 21, 2022This is Fantastically written with beautiful stories that she enjoys reading before bed. The illustrations are also out of this world, one of the most magical children’s books I’ve seen in a long time. Would make a great Christmas gift for children of all ages.
(Thanks to Net Galley & Clare Cock-Starkey for this Book).
(Thanks to Net Galley & Clare Cock-Starkey for this Book).
March 1, 2024
Lived the illustrations in thus book!! The information is interesting and easy to follow and it shares different types of myths and folklore of different cultures and topics.
May 5, 2025
Very interesting and cute illustrations!
August 22, 2023
A lot of proper nouns.
October 20, 2022
**After some thought, I have decided to revise my rating. The godawful font chosen for ALL of the text is nearly impossible to read without going cross-eyed. It will prevent many people from being able to read it - including children who are learning or struggling to read. Since the book seems to be aimed at children, it's basically sabotaging itself. I can't in good conscience recommend it unless a different font is chosen.
This is a charming collection of myths, legends, and folklore about creatures and plants living in various environments (oceans, rivers, marshes, mountains, forests) and the natural features and environments themselves.
The folklore is arranged into sections based on environment rather than nationality, so that you get stories from around the world about rivers, or forests, etc all together. This is a wonderful way to arrange it because it makes it easy to compare different myths about the same features.
I really like how each bit of folklore is condensed into a short paragraph and is accompanied by illustrations. There are a few longer stories sprinkled throughout as well, which break up the reading nicely.
The illustrations are colorful and vivid and intriguing and make each bit of folklore come alive in the imagination. They add a lot to the book. The cover is also gorgeous.
My only complaint is the font chosen for this story. It would have been great if confined to headings or similar, but trying to read the entire book in that font was headache-inducing. It would be nearly impossible for a child learning to read or struggling with reading to make any sense of it.
I look forward to sharing this with my kiddo (8). I think he will really enjoy learning about the varied mythical creatures.
*Thanks to NetGalley and Wide-Eyed Editions for providing an e-arc for review.
This is a charming collection of myths, legends, and folklore about creatures and plants living in various environments (oceans, rivers, marshes, mountains, forests) and the natural features and environments themselves.
The folklore is arranged into sections based on environment rather than nationality, so that you get stories from around the world about rivers, or forests, etc all together. This is a wonderful way to arrange it because it makes it easy to compare different myths about the same features.
I really like how each bit of folklore is condensed into a short paragraph and is accompanied by illustrations. There are a few longer stories sprinkled throughout as well, which break up the reading nicely.
The illustrations are colorful and vivid and intriguing and make each bit of folklore come alive in the imagination. They add a lot to the book. The cover is also gorgeous.
My only complaint is the font chosen for this story. It would have been great if confined to headings or similar, but trying to read the entire book in that font was headache-inducing. It would be nearly impossible for a child learning to read or struggling with reading to make any sense of it.
I look forward to sharing this with my kiddo (8). I think he will really enjoy learning about the varied mythical creatures.
*Thanks to NetGalley and Wide-Eyed Editions for providing an e-arc for review.
October 15, 2022
I received an advanced copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. LOVED the vibrant way this book was built. The illustrations and flow of the pages sucked me in the ENTIRE way. I enjoyed it immensely and can't wait to re-read it and purchase it when it's out!
December 29, 2023
This is a fun book teaching children all about the different and interesting folklore that exists around the natural world and contains some interesting folk tales and legends. The book is split into sections with each section beginning with a folktale from somewhere around the world. What I love about these individual folktales is that I have never heard any of them before and they are all very different and from different parts of the world. The first tale is Czech and is about a young woman called Betushka who lives with her mother in the woods and what happens when she comes across a young lady who wants to dance with her who turns out to be a wood maiden. Each tale is different and not very long and after this the rest of the section of the book is made up of short chapters which are a double page or two long featuring some interesting and different facts about various folklore to do with woodlands, mushrooms, etc.
The book is really fun to read, the illustrations really bring the magical folklore to life and you can imagine some of the different creatures and characters from the illustrations. The folklore creatures and things you learn about are all very interesting and I love how the folklore in this book covers all parts of the world including Africa and the Americas. The facts about the different creatures or superstitions and things that you learn are short, a sentence or two about the various different aspects of folklore, such as a fact about Yggdrasil, the tree of life from Norse mythology, but each one is fascinating and I can imagine will inspire some children to want to learn more about them. I particularly liked the chapters on the different creatures found in the seas and waters like the sea gods and sea monsters, and the chapter on fungi, lichen and moss.
Overall this book isn’t too long a read, but it has some interesting folk tales and some fun facts about so many different folk legends and creatures that I would love to look at this book again in future as I’ve not heard of a lot of these despite being a fan of various folklore like Norse. I think this book will be enjoyed by many children, and is a great way of introducing the magic of folklore as well as teaching them about different tales and legends that exist today, and to see where they come from. Overall a great and fun read, with illustrations which really help add to the magic of the stories and facts.
-Thanks to netgalley for a free copy.
The book is really fun to read, the illustrations really bring the magical folklore to life and you can imagine some of the different creatures and characters from the illustrations. The folklore creatures and things you learn about are all very interesting and I love how the folklore in this book covers all parts of the world including Africa and the Americas. The facts about the different creatures or superstitions and things that you learn are short, a sentence or two about the various different aspects of folklore, such as a fact about Yggdrasil, the tree of life from Norse mythology, but each one is fascinating and I can imagine will inspire some children to want to learn more about them. I particularly liked the chapters on the different creatures found in the seas and waters like the sea gods and sea monsters, and the chapter on fungi, lichen and moss.
Overall this book isn’t too long a read, but it has some interesting folk tales and some fun facts about so many different folk legends and creatures that I would love to look at this book again in future as I’ve not heard of a lot of these despite being a fan of various folklore like Norse. I think this book will be enjoyed by many children, and is a great way of introducing the magic of folklore as well as teaching them about different tales and legends that exist today, and to see where they come from. Overall a great and fun read, with illustrations which really help add to the magic of the stories and facts.
-Thanks to netgalley for a free copy.
February 16, 2023
This book is part of the Lore of the... series while I chose in my reading to first read this book Lore of the Landand then to follow up with Lore of the Wild in a chronological format in which the land came before the animal inhabitants. Any other reader, though, would be more than welcome to choose their own method of reading since both of these books will actually stand on their own without the need of the other book.
Each book is made of different sections that explore the breakdown of the main topic. In Lore of the Land the reader is introduced to various types of geographical features thus having chapters focusing on forests, valleys and hills, mountains, etc. Although these sections are meant to be apart from each other there is really no clear separation from one section to the other as where one ends then the next one begins although with a brief re-telling of a particular story. This is then followed by mini-chapters which explore in further details different aspects of that chapter such as the starting mini-chapter of creation mythoi for that nature element, forest spirits, legendary forest and animals just to name a few examples.
As for the entries themselves they are rather decent. The introducing story of each chapter has a title and the place of its origin while the two-page limit really makes it more of a brief telling with a lot of detail. This bare-bone telling is then reflected in all the other entries as they are provided a paragraph that explores just barely the tales behind the focus.
The illustrations are brightly colored and stylistic while holding onto repetitive smaller details. Otherwise they almost make me see them as a collage-type cutout.
All in all it was a rather decent read and one that can introduce young readers to a culturally wide range of mythoi focused on the natural world around them.
Each book is made of different sections that explore the breakdown of the main topic. In Lore of the Land the reader is introduced to various types of geographical features thus having chapters focusing on forests, valleys and hills, mountains, etc. Although these sections are meant to be apart from each other there is really no clear separation from one section to the other as where one ends then the next one begins although with a brief re-telling of a particular story. This is then followed by mini-chapters which explore in further details different aspects of that chapter such as the starting mini-chapter of creation mythoi for that nature element, forest spirits, legendary forest and animals just to name a few examples.
As for the entries themselves they are rather decent. The introducing story of each chapter has a title and the place of its origin while the two-page limit really makes it more of a brief telling with a lot of detail. This bare-bone telling is then reflected in all the other entries as they are provided a paragraph that explores just barely the tales behind the focus.
The illustrations are brightly colored and stylistic while holding onto repetitive smaller details. Otherwise they almost make me see them as a collage-type cutout.
All in all it was a rather decent read and one that can introduce young readers to a culturally wide range of mythoi focused on the natural world around them.
October 27, 2022
Wow -- this is a stunning compilation of a variety of folklore and legends as well as a resource detailing nature-based mythical creatures, creation stories and related wisdom. The content spans ages of time as well as visits places all around the world. The stories are rich and the overall effect of this collection is beautiful, memorable, and inviting.
Visit the following six different natural biomes through the lens of folklore:
Forests
Seas and Oceans
Mountains
Hills and Valleys
Rivers and Lakes
Wetlands
Each of the six sections includes one folktale retelling, related creation stories, mythological creatures related to this biome as well as wisdom related to the geography, flora and fauna of the area. Again, there is so much to explore and I appreciate the diverse range of stories and sources featured throughout the book.
The illustrations are vibrant and stylized to fit the theme -- simultaneously celebrating the natural world but also human culture.
Many of the featured tidbits of information will certainly inspire kids to explore more about those stories. I'd love to read a full story about the creation of the Indonesian volcano Mount Bromo, for example, or find out more about the Aztec water monster Ahuizotl.
I love folklore and I loved Lore of the Wild: Folklore and Wisdom from Nature. Both books make a great pairing for children interested in mythology and folktales. It is especially wonderful to see all of the connections in stories to the natural world.
***Note: I was given a review copy of this book via Quarto Kids. Opinions are my own.
Visit the following six different natural biomes through the lens of folklore:
Forests
Seas and Oceans
Mountains
Hills and Valleys
Rivers and Lakes
Wetlands
Each of the six sections includes one folktale retelling, related creation stories, mythological creatures related to this biome as well as wisdom related to the geography, flora and fauna of the area. Again, there is so much to explore and I appreciate the diverse range of stories and sources featured throughout the book.
The illustrations are vibrant and stylized to fit the theme -- simultaneously celebrating the natural world but also human culture.
Many of the featured tidbits of information will certainly inspire kids to explore more about those stories. I'd love to read a full story about the creation of the Indonesian volcano Mount Bromo, for example, or find out more about the Aztec water monster Ahuizotl.
I love folklore and I loved Lore of the Wild: Folklore and Wisdom from Nature. Both books make a great pairing for children interested in mythology and folktales. It is especially wonderful to see all of the connections in stories to the natural world.
***Note: I was given a review copy of this book via Quarto Kids. Opinions are my own.
November 2, 2022
This book, aimed at children 6 to 12 years old, is split into six chapters. Each chapter covers a geographical feature, like forests and mountains, and some of the folklore associated with them from across the world.
Each chapter begins with a two-page story associated with the geographical feature. The remaining pages in the chapter cover creation stories, mythological creatures and spirits that are said to inhibit these areas, and folklore associated with plants found there.
However, while the story that begins the chapter is consistent prose with multiple paragraphs, the subjects of the remaining pages are snippets of information. Each page will have multiple paragraphs, with the individual paragraphs framing an illustration that depicts the paragraph's subject. Each paragraph covers a different subject from across the world.
I only had two problems with the book. The first is that the majority of the information is just snippets. I wished that some of the subjects got a little more information.
The other problem is that there are a few times when some of the paragraphs are written in gray while framed in black, making it hard to read.
Overall, I enjoyed what was given. I just wished there was more to it. The prose is simple, and the paragraphs are easy for the target audience to read.
Each chapter begins with a two-page story associated with the geographical feature. The remaining pages in the chapter cover creation stories, mythological creatures and spirits that are said to inhibit these areas, and folklore associated with plants found there.
However, while the story that begins the chapter is consistent prose with multiple paragraphs, the subjects of the remaining pages are snippets of information. Each page will have multiple paragraphs, with the individual paragraphs framing an illustration that depicts the paragraph's subject. Each paragraph covers a different subject from across the world.
I only had two problems with the book. The first is that the majority of the information is just snippets. I wished that some of the subjects got a little more information.
The other problem is that there are a few times when some of the paragraphs are written in gray while framed in black, making it hard to read.
Overall, I enjoyed what was given. I just wished there was more to it. The prose is simple, and the paragraphs are easy for the target audience to read.
January 24, 2023
If you are a regular visitor on my blog, you will know that I enjoy reading just about everything, and folktales and such hold a special fascination. Which is why it is no wonder that this book appealed to me. Its beautiful cover, the clever title, and the description: all of this ensured I will be reading Lore of the Land. And I am glad I did!
It is utterly beautiful from start to end in both the visuals and the text. The book is arranged into sections based on natural elements rather than nationality. This allows us to read stories from around the world in one place, and makes it easy to compare the myths and folklore about similar things across different cultures. Each section starts off with a short folktale about the featured natural elements (forests, mountains, wetlands, various waterbodies, hills and valleys). The rest of the chapter/section includes various creation stories and mythical creatures/spirits of the featured element.
The illustrations are vibrant, vivid, and detailed making the stories come alive.
Disclaimer: I received a digital ARC of all the featured boos from NetGalley, and these are my honest opinions of the book.
It is utterly beautiful from start to end in both the visuals and the text. The book is arranged into sections based on natural elements rather than nationality. This allows us to read stories from around the world in one place, and makes it easy to compare the myths and folklore about similar things across different cultures. Each section starts off with a short folktale about the featured natural elements (forests, mountains, wetlands, various waterbodies, hills and valleys). The rest of the chapter/section includes various creation stories and mythical creatures/spirits of the featured element.
The illustrations are vibrant, vivid, and detailed making the stories come alive.
Disclaimer: I received a digital ARC of all the featured boos from NetGalley, and these are my honest opinions of the book.
April 30, 2023
Lore of the Land, by Claire Cock-Starkey and Samantha Dolan, revolves around the traditions, legends, and myths surrounding the natural world. Six chapters focus on a different habitat, from the sea, to forests, to mountains. Each starts off with a myth or legend from around the world, followed by more diverse categories under that habitat.
With language designed to captivate, the book tells tales of weird and wonderful customs, traditions, and lore from the world over. The descriptions of traditions and their evolution provide nuanced insights into the customs of the past and how they continue to impact modern society. Every chapter of the book is structured in a candid and conversational style, and the storytelling is a perfect form. The illustrations in Lore of the Land add a vibrant and visual interpretation of the rich cultural traditions.
One minor qualm- fauns are half goat, not half horse. Other than that, perfect for those interested in folklore and mythic studies!
***Many thanks to the Netgalley & Quarto Publishing for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
With language designed to captivate, the book tells tales of weird and wonderful customs, traditions, and lore from the world over. The descriptions of traditions and their evolution provide nuanced insights into the customs of the past and how they continue to impact modern society. Every chapter of the book is structured in a candid and conversational style, and the storytelling is a perfect form. The illustrations in Lore of the Land add a vibrant and visual interpretation of the rich cultural traditions.
One minor qualm- fauns are half goat, not half horse. Other than that, perfect for those interested in folklore and mythic studies!
***Many thanks to the Netgalley & Quarto Publishing for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 14, 2022
A pretty good book, if it’s what you’re after. It’s structured around the geography of our world – the oceans, the rivers and lakes, the mountains, the forests, etc – and after a quick little folk tale from some far-off corner (Brazil, Maori peoples, England) the next eight pages are little bitty details of all our myths. So this landscape gets its mythical monsters, that kind of countryside has specific fairy folk the world over, and the plants that grow there have properties that have carried on down through legends and oral advice over centuries. Folk tale, traditional don’t-go-near-the-water-there’s-a-monster lore, creation myths – it’s all here, in bite-sized bits, that while don’t always convince they are telling quite the full story, do certainly go to show there is a variety in the world’s legends, just as irrefutably we all have them. The colourful artworks have some nice details about them (the scrying stone in Merlin’s crozier-like staff, for one), and the whole is a commendable piece.
July 10, 2023
I feel like I can’t give a proper review on this because my brain couldn’t comprehend the font. That being said, I loved how the book was laid out by observing different types of landscapes and delving into what stories and folklore people have come up with to explain their origins/ecological behavior. But, I’m gonna be honest, along with the hard to read font, I wasn’t a huge fan of the art overall. Obviously, this is very subjective. Lots of people in the reviews seem to really love the art. And I do think that the composition and use of color on each page is really wonderful. That being said, many of the drawings of people were a bit unsettling for me in their proportions. Great info, tho if you don’t have grandma eyes like me and aren’t a picky pants with art.
April 14, 2023
This book is broken into 6 sections: forests, seas and oceans, mountains, hills and valleys, rivers and lakes, and wetlands. Each contains one tale from a different region so one each of Czech, Brazilian, Maori, Portuguese, Irish, and English tales - which is disappointing for a book of this length. The rest of the book is small snippets of info about various creatures, places, legends, etc.
What really makes this book stand out are the gorgeous illustrations. They are vivid water colour style with individual drawings for each different piece of lore. In a few unfortunate instances the text is written on a black background of the illustration and is very difficult to read as a result.
What really makes this book stand out are the gorgeous illustrations. They are vivid water colour style with individual drawings for each different piece of lore. In a few unfortunate instances the text is written on a black background of the illustration and is very difficult to read as a result.
December 8, 2022
I got. this on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
This was a really great collection of different types of lore, and their connections to different environments like forests, the sea, lakes etc. I love all the different lore it explores, and also that it has a short story at the beginning of each section! 😎
Definitely recommend this as a cool intro to the diversity of lore that exists out there, and to see similarities and differences in the way us humans have experienced and theorized stuff throughout time!
This was a really great collection of different types of lore, and their connections to different environments like forests, the sea, lakes etc. I love all the different lore it explores, and also that it has a short story at the beginning of each section! 😎
Definitely recommend this as a cool intro to the diversity of lore that exists out there, and to see similarities and differences in the way us humans have experienced and theorized stuff throughout time!
October 31, 2022
Really nice and comprehensive list of mythological creatures from across the world. It's divided into nice elemental sections. The illustrations are the absolute best part of the book. They are beautiful and stylized and cover the whole pages. The font is also a nice stylistic choice. I would love a physical copy when it comes out!
Thanks to netgalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
Thanks to netgalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
February 24, 2023
What a beautifully presented book. There was so much scope across a wide range of cultures, and it delivered introductory information in a concise and pleasing way that would be engaging to the target audience.
The illustrations were stunning and I loved that they looked traditional in style (thinking of the early work of ancient Egypt).
This was a fun read.
Pick it up, give it a go & enjoy! >(^_^)<
Gén
The illustrations were stunning and I loved that they looked traditional in style (thinking of the early work of ancient Egypt).
This was a fun read.
Pick it up, give it a go & enjoy! >(^_^)<
Gén
July 25, 2022
I absolutely loved this collection! The artwork is beautiful, the stories are accessible, and the sections are arranged in such a way as to present a global picture along a digestible theme (forests, mountains) that then takes the reader a step beyond where other collections may have ended (wetlands, hills and valleys). I will be recommending this one and purchasing it for gifts!
November 5, 2022
Thank you netgalley for this ARC. I am leaving an 100% honest review.
Lore of the Land is a beautiful book that introduces the readers to folklore from around the world.
I greatly enjoyed the the amazing Tableau this book paints on world wide mythology. It really give a inside look on how people tried to explain the world around them and I love it
Lore of the Land is a beautiful book that introduces the readers to folklore from around the world.
I greatly enjoyed the the amazing Tableau this book paints on world wide mythology. It really give a inside look on how people tried to explain the world around them and I love it
June 20, 2023
I am trying to lean into my more folklore/witchy tendencies and I thought my students would really enjoy this. It is lovely and full of diverse lore from all over the world. Recommended.
It is important to know that in this book and its sister book, the Americas are not featured as heavily as Europe, Asia, and Africa.
It is important to know that in this book and its sister book, the Americas are not featured as heavily as Europe, Asia, and Africa.
September 27, 2022
A fascinating and stunning book that is divided into six habitats. Each section opens with a legend or folktale from around the world and is followed by an eclectic collection of creation stories, myths, etc. Beautifully illustrated.
November 1, 2022
What a fun and fascinating book! I have not really read a book like this before. This book touches on myths and folklore surrounding all things nature from many different groups. I loved the interesting illustrations to go along with it.
November 11, 2022
3.5 stars. I really wish this had a bibliography for further reading and research on all the myths and folklore referenced. It's a gorgeous buffet of bite-sized pieces of info from a variety of cultures, but it's a shame there are no references included.
July 2, 2023
This book is beautifully illustrated. Each chapter deals with a different folk tales from different cultures.
Czech - The forest
Brazilian - sea and ocean
Māori - Mountain
Portuguese - hills and valleys
Irish - Rivers and lakes
English - Wetlands
Czech - The forest
Brazilian - sea and ocean
Māori - Mountain
Portuguese - hills and valleys
Irish - Rivers and lakes
English - Wetlands
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews