AN ILLUSTRATED COLLECTION OF NORDIC ANIMAL TALES

Presenting a delightful cast of animal archetypes from the Far North.

These 26 brief, traditional stories, including fables and pourquoi tales, set in Finland’s forests, describe the comical exploits of cultural-touchstone characters from Nordic folklore: gruff yet good-natured, indulgent, and easily duped Bear and Wolf and lazy, scheming trickster Fox. Other characters, especially wily Hare and riotous Rooster, also stand out. The lighthearted, humorous, and wise tales in this well-written Finnish import are narrated in breezy, conversational tones and include occasional British spellings. Characters are individualized and well realized and have loads of personality; the dialogue-heavy tales are fast-paced and capably convey characters’ quirky temperaments. Many stories reference events that occurred in tales immediately preceding them, so it’s helpful to read them sequentially. The illustrations, created with plant-based watercolors and ink pen, are lovely. The delicate yet lush, textured, detailed artwork captures the naturalistic-looking animal characters. Many illustrations are in full color and appear as full- or double-page spreads; some art appears as spots or insets. The forest setting is amplified with greens and browns; the Nordic climate is reflected in snowy, wintry scenes. Quaint farm buildings and farm tools and equipment lend old-fashioned touches. Themes and plots here are universal; this collection spotlights animals representing people, after all, so readers should recognize familiar human strengths and flaws—and laugh.

These stories are such fun readers will race through this anthology.