Favorite fairy tales told in Sweden
#6 of 17 in Favourite tales Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (21)
What’s inside...
Favorite Fairy Tales Told in Sweden is a collection of well-loved and traditional folktales and fairy tales from Sweden's rich storytelling heritage, curated by renowned author Virginia Haviland. The book typically includes a variety of enchanting stories that capture the whimsy, wisdom, and cultural nuances of Swedish folklore. Through captivating narratives, the tales often feature magical creatures, heroic quests, and moral lessons, showcasing themes such as bravery, kindness, and intelligence. While the book's specific contents can vary depending on the edition, readers might expect to find classic Swedish tales such as adventures of clever children, talking animals, and encounters with trolls. This anthology is designed to be accessible to children and to those interested in cross-cultural folklore, providing a delightful window into Sweden's mythical past and traditional storytelling. Contents include: The Boy and the Water-Sprite, The Old Woman and the Tramp, The Lad and the Fox, Pinkel, The Old Woman and the Fish, and Lars, My Lad!
Discussion points
What do you think the characters learned in this story?
How would you feel if you were in the character's situation?
What was your favorite part of the story, and why did you like it?
If you could change one thing in the story, what would it be and why?
Which character would you like to be friends with, and what would you do together?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive tones and animated expressions when reading to make the story more engaging.
Ask your child to guess what might happen next to encourage prediction skills.
Relate themes or situations from the story to your child’s real-life experiences to make the content more relatable.
Encourage your child to draw scenes or characters from the story; this helps them connect visually and enhances comprehension.
Discuss the moral or lesson of the story and how it applies to everyday life to deepen understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and generosity
Explanation: The tales often portray characters who are rewarded for their kind deeds, illustrating the positive outcomes of being generous and considerate towards others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by sharing with their peers, helping family members, and being thoughtful in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: The value of courage and resourcefulness
Explanation: Many stories in the book showcase characters facing challenges bravely and using their wits to overcome obstacles, teaching children to be resilient and innovative.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to face their fears, whether it's trying something new or standing up for themselves and others in difficult situations.
Example Lesson: The consequences of actions
Explanation: Several tales demonstrate how characters' choices lead to specific outcomes, emphasizing the concept of cause and effect.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think about the consequences before acting, which is crucial in decision-making and taking responsibility for their actions.
Example Lesson: The strength of teamwork
Explanation: Stories where multiple characters come together to solve a problem highlight how collaboration can achieve goals that might be impossible alone.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to participate in group activities, appreciate diverse contributions, and work cooperatively with others.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature and its creatures
Explanation: Tales that involve magical forests and mythical creatures teach children to appreciate and care for the environment around them.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to engage in outdoor activities, learn about wildlife, and develop a sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation.