Stories of Wales: Forty-One Tales from the Celtic Heritage
on Goodreads (15)
What’s inside...
Stories of Wales: Forty-One Tales from the Celtic Heritage, penned by Elisabeth Sheppard-Jones, is a collection of enchanting tales that delve into the rich tapestry of Welsh folklore and mythology. The book brings together a diverse range of stories, each reflecting the cultural and historical depth of Wales. From mystical creatures and legendary heroes to ancient myths and traditional fables, these tales capture the imagination and preserve the spirit of Welsh heritage. The stories are not only entertaining but also provide insights into the values, beliefs, and traditions of the Welsh people, making the book a valuable resource for anyone interested in Celtic culture and the art of storytelling. This collection of ageless stories, beautifully told, has been a favorite for Welsh schools since its original publication in 1959.
Age
7-9
Length
192 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What is your favorite tale from the book and why did it stand out to you?
How do you think the characters in the story felt during their adventures?
What lessons can we learn from the stories about bravery and wisdom?
How do you think our lives are similar or different from the characters in these Welsh tales?
If you could be friends with any character from the book, who would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Read the stories together and use expressive voices for different characters to make the tales come alive.
Discuss the historical and cultural context of Wales to help your child understand the background of the stories.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This can lead to a deeper discussion about the story’s message.
Create a family storytelling night where everyone picks their favorite tale from the book and explains why it's meaningful to them.
Compare and contrast the morals in the Welsh tales with those in other fairy tales or stories your child knows.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for cultural heritage
Explanation: Stories from 'Stories of Wales' delve into the rich Celtic heritage, portraying various customs, myths, and folklore that have shaped Welsh culture.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect diverse cultures, fostering a sense of global citizenship and curiosity about the world's varied traditions.
Example Lesson: The importance of bravery and courage
Explanation: Many tales in the book feature protagonists who face challenges and adversaries, demonstrating bravery and determination.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to act bravely in difficult situations, standing up for themselves and others in the face of adversity.
Example Lesson: Value of honesty
Explanation: Several stories highlight characters who thrive by telling the truth and dealing transparently, emphasizing the benefits of honesty.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children that honesty is the best policy, reinforcing the importance of being truthful in their everyday interactions and relationships.
Example Lesson: The power of kindness
Explanation: Tales often depict characters who perform acts of kindness, resulting in positive outcomes for both the giver and the receiver.
Real-World Application: Children learn that kindness can lead to mutual benefits and is a key element in building lasting relationships and a supportive community.
Example Lesson: Learning from mistakes
Explanation: Stories illustrate characters making mistakes and facing the consequences, which leads to personal growth and wisdom.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that mistakes are a part of learning and growth, encouraging them to embrace challenges as opportunities to learn.