These stories offer us an introduction to the complex oral traditions of the varied civilizations of one of the world's most fascinating regions. Exotic, clever, and poignant, Asian-Pacific Folktales and Legends invites you into a magically distinctive world. Originating from the far corners of the globe—China, Korea, Japan, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia—these tales teach us about morality and mysticism in enchanting ways. Organized by universal folkloric themes, Asian-Pacific Folktales and Legends features animal stories, tales of magical skill, explanations of how things came to be the way they are, delightful depictions of the clever and the foolish, ghosts and supernatural beings, and legends about heroes and gods. From "The Supernatural Crossbow," a Vietnamese tale, to the Malaysian story of "The Man in the Moon," each piece in this collection explores a self-contained, dreamlike universe that both delights and transports the reader. Shaped by the geographical and cultural influences of a people, these stories offer us an introduction to the complex oral traditions of the varied civilizations of one of the world's most fascinating regions.

This book contains 6 of Bob Hartmans immensely popular retellings, selected from The Lion Storyteller Bedtime Book, The Lion Storyteller Book of Animal Tales and The Lion Storyteller Christmas Book. Arranged under broad themes - the series features stories about animals, Christmas and from the folk tradition - many of the stories also introduce 'citizenship' themes and values through story. These entertaining short stories work especially well when read aloud and will also appeal to newly confident readers.