Books about folklore

Join Justin and Marissa Clarke on a spine-tingling journey to the remote and mysterious land of Brovania. In Legend of the Lost Legend, the siblings accompany their father, a famous writer, on a quest to find an ancient manuscript that has been missing for five centuries. What starts as a family expedition quickly turns into a race for survival as they navigate deep, dark forests and encounter strange local folklore that might be more real than they ever imagined.

This classic entry in R.L. Stine's iconic series is perfect for children who love a mix of high-stakes adventure and supernatural mystery. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in exploring legends and myths while enjoying the safe thrills that the Goosebumps series is known for. Parents will find this a great choice for encouraging independent reading through its fast-paced plot and cliffhanger chapters.

Highlights:

• A thrilling blend of wilderness survival and supernatural mystery.
• Engaging sibling dynamics that many young readers will relate to.
• Fast-paced storytelling that keeps reluctant readers turning pages.
• Explores themes of bravery and persistence in the face of the unknown.

In the third installment of Susan Cooper's acclaimed The Dark Is Rising Sequence, the Drew children—Simon, Jane, and Barney—reunite with the mysterious Will Stanton in the coastal village of Trewissick. The ancient Grail has been stolen by the forces of the Dark, and the quest to retrieve it leads the group into a world where local folklore and high fantasy collide. As the village prepares for the annual ritual of the Greenwitch, a figure woven from rowan and hawthorn, the children realize that this ancient entity holds a secret vital to their mission.

Greenwitch is a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling, perfect for children who love stories rooted in mythology and legend. Unlike the more action-heavy entries in the series, this book focuses on the power of empathy and the quiet strength of Jane Drew. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in Arthurian legends, British folklore, and the timeless struggle between good and evil. Fans of C.S. Lewis and Lloyd Alexander will find themselves captivated by Cooper's lyrical prose and the haunting beauty of the Cornish coast.

Highlights:

• A compelling blend of ancient Cornish folklore and epic fantasy.
• Focuses on the importance of empathy and kindness in the face of darkness.
• Features a crossover between the protagonists of the first two books in the series.
• Rich, atmospheric setting that brings the coastal village to life.
• A pivotal chapter in the legendary The Dark Is Rising Sequence.

In Leprechaun in Late Winter, Jack and Annie travel back in time to 19th-century Ireland on a special mission from Merlin the magician. Their goal is to find and inspire a young girl named Augusta, who feels discouraged and lonely. Through a series of magical encounters involving Irish folklore and a bit of leprechaun luck, the siblings help Augusta discover her passion for storytelling. This heartwarming adventure is perfect for children who love fantasy mixed with historical fiction.

This installment of the beloved Magic Tree House series is an ideal choice for readers interested in Irish legends and the power of creativity. As Jack and Annie navigate the snowy Irish countryside, they learn about the importance of heritage and the impact one person can have on their culture. It is a great choice for parents looking for educational yet entertaining stories that introduce historical figures like Lady Gregory in an accessible way.

Highlights:

• Features a magical journey to historical Ireland.
• Introduces young readers to Irish folklore and the life of Lady Gregory.
• Encourages themes of creativity, inspiration, and cultural heritage.
• Part of the popular Merlin Missions series with more complex plots for growing readers.

Plongez dans l'univers merveilleux et décalé de Pierre Gripari avec Les Contes de la rue Broca. Ce classique incontournable de la littérature jeunesse transporte les lecteurs dans un Paris où la magie se cache au coin de chaque rue. Entre une sorcière qui veut manger une petite fille à la sauce tomate et un géant aux chaussettes rouges, ces histoires débordent d'imagination, de malice et d'humour. C'est le choix idéal pour les enfants qui aiment les récits fantastiques ancrés dans le quotidien.

Parfait pour les jeunes lecteurs friands de contes de fées revisités, ce recueil est une excellente introduction à la littérature française moderne. Que ce soit pour une lecture accompagnée ou en autonomie, ces contes savoureux captiveront l'attention grâce à leur rythme vif et leurs dialogues pétillants. Une lecture indispensable pour cultiver le goût de l'insolite et de la fantaisie chez les plus jeunes.

Highlights:

• Un classique de la littérature jeunesse française plein d'humour et de fantaisie.
• Des contes modernes et originaux se déroulant dans un cadre urbain familier.
• Idéal pour développer l'imaginaire et le vocabulaire des enfants.
• Une structure en courts récits parfaite pour les lectures du soir ou en classe.

Set in the soot-stained streets of Victorian London, Sweep: The Story of a Girl and Her Monster tells the heart-wrenching and magical story of Nan Sparrow, a young chimney sweep who survives a life-threatening accident thanks to a mysterious creature made of ash and coal. This "char" named Charlie becomes her protector and friend, offering a glimmer of hope in a world that often treats children as disposable. It is a beautifully written tale that blends historical realism with Jewish folklore, creating a narrative that is both grounded and wondrous.

Perfect for children who love stories of unlikely friendships and magical realism, this book is an ideal choice for readers interested in historical settings and social justice. Jonathan Auxier crafts a poignant story about the power of stories themselves and the courage it takes to stand up for what is right. It is a great choice for fans of The Graveyard Book or Wonder, offering a deeply emotional journey that explores themes of sacrifice and the true meaning of being human.

Highlights:

• A unique blend of Victorian history and magical Jewish folklore.
• A powerful exploration of friendship, sacrifice, and social reform.
• Emotional depth that resonates with both children and adults.
• Beautifully developed characters, including the lovable soot golem, Charlie.

Tenderly, I Am Devoured is a hauntingly beautiful and atmospheric gothic romance that transports readers to a world of dark folklore and ancient gods. When eighteen-year-old Lacrimosa Arriscane returns home in disgrace, she finds her family on the brink of ruin. To save them, she agrees to a marriage of convenience with a dangerous chthonic god. However, as the ritual goes awry and Lark begins to fade from the mortal world, she must turn to her first heartbreak, Alastair, and his sister Camille for help. This lush, flower-threaded horror story explores the boundaries of love and sacrifice in a setting that is as intoxicating as it is terrifying.

Perfect for fans of Saltburn and A Study in Drowning, this novel is an ideal choice for readers interested in dark fantasy, polyamorous romance, and atmospheric world-building. Lyndall Clipstone delivers a story that is both monstrous and romantic, making it a great choice for older teens who enjoy moody, character-driven narratives with a touch of the macabre. The blend of folk horror and intense emotional stakes ensures a gripping reading experience from start to finish.

Highlights:

• A unique polyamorous bisexual romance set against a dark, gothic backdrop.
• Richly detailed folk horror elements involving ancient gods and hedonistic rituals.
• A high-stakes plot centered on family legacy, sacrifice, and self-discovery.
• Lush, evocative prose that brings the haunted coastal setting to life.

In These Vengeful Wishes, aspiring artist Ceci is uprooted from her life and moved to the eccentric town of Santa Aguas after her stepfather's arrest. The town is steeped in the terrifying legend of La Cegua, a vengeful spirit who punishes untrustworthy men. As Ceci settles into a crumbling, rumored-to-be-cursed manor, she begins to paint a mysterious door that she eventually finds hidden deep within the forest. Alongside her new friend Jamie, she discovers a well that grants wishes—but in Santa Aguas, every wish comes with a devastating price.

This atmospheric YA horror novel is ideal for readers interested in dark folklore and stories where the past refuses to stay buried. Vanessa Montalban crafts a haunting narrative that explores the weight of family secrets and the thin line between justice and revenge. It is a great choice for fans of Trang Thanh Tran and Krystal Sutherland, offering a perfect blend of supernatural chills and emotional depth. Parents looking for diverse horror with strong cultural roots will find this a captivating addition to their teen's bookshelf.

Highlights:

• A dark and immersive exploration of Latinx folklore and the legend of La Cegua.
• A gripping mystery centered on a cursed family manor and long-hidden secrets.
• Perfect for fans of atmospheric YA horror and supernatural thrillers.
• Explores complex themes of justice, revenge, and the consequences of our desires.

In the sixth installment of the beloved W.I.T.C.H. series, the Guardians of the Veil face a chilling new mystery that hits close to home. When Eric starts at a new school, something feels deeply wrong. The students are becoming strangely listless and exhausted, as if their very life force is being drained away. Hay Lin connects these eerie symptoms to an old folktale about the Ragorlang—a terrifying monster that feeds on the energy of its victims. The girls must combine their elemental powers and work together to uncover the truth behind this supernatural threat before it's too late.

This graphic novel is perfect for children who love stories about magical girls, secret identities, and the power of friendship. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in urban fantasy and supernatural mysteries. Fans of series like Sailor Moon or Winx Club will find the blend of school-life drama and high-stakes magical battles absolutely captivating. With its vibrant artwork and engaging plot, it's a great choice for keeping middle-grade readers hooked on reading while exploring themes of bravery and cooperation.

Highlights:

• Features a diverse group of five relatable female protagonists with unique elemental powers.
• Combines everyday school challenges with thrilling supernatural mystery and ancient folklore.
• Stunning graphic novel illustrations that bring the magical world of Heatherfield to life.
• Explores deep themes of teamwork, loyalty, and standing up against dark forces.