THE BAREFOOT BOOK OF GIANTS, GHOSTS AND GOBLINS

This mild collection is even-tempered in the tellings despite the various spooks of the title. From the plucky princess who aids her prince in the Norwegian “Giant with No Heart in His Body,” to the strong-minded Scottish “Lass Who Couldn’t be Frightened” (who bests a goblin but is undone by a mouse—and love), the nine tales cover many cultures and sensibilities. The Cheyenne “Ghost with Two Faces” is heartsick and lovelorn, and the Chinese “Drinking Companions” honor the dead and the living. Matthews pays particular attention to oral rhythms, so the stories move well, but without the bite some ghoulish readers have come to expect. The illustrations include elegant decorations and borders in a mannered, attenuated style. (sources) (Folklore. 6-10)