Peace Tales: World Folktales to Talk about [Paperback]

Margaret Read MacDonald (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 1992

A collection of folktales from cultures around the world, reflecting different aspects of war and peace.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

MacDonald's collection of folktales, proverbs and fables from diverse cultures is meant to encourage youngsters to think and talk about how certain actions have peaceful consequences, while others lead to conflict. The importance of patience, understanding and working together is the common theme connecting the selections, which include Zen tales, Japanese and Polynesian legends, Mexican fables and Native American stories. The pieces range widely in length and complexity, from rambling legends that youngsters will need help deciphering, to pithy statements whose message is crystal clear ("All the world smiles in the same language"). Though the relevance of some of the more sophisticated entries may elude young readers, this is a well-intentioned, commendable compilation. Ages 9-up.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

From School Library Journal

Grade 3 Up-- While the quality of these stories is uneven, with some of them seeming more appropriate for adults than for children, storytellers will find the book useful. The collection is arranged into two main sections: ``Pathways to War'' and ``Pathways to Peace''; the selections are then listed according to the lesson learned. The tales come from all over the globe with many from non-European traditions. Also, pertinent quotes are given in both the original language and in English. Curiously, one tale, ``Two Goats on the Bridge,'' appears in both sections, with the endings changed to present the options. Children are assaulted by savagery in every form of the media. It is important to present ``the other side,'' the possibility of peace, however fragile. --Mollie Bynum, Chester Valley Elementary School, Anchorage, AK
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 116 pages
• Publisher: Linnet Books (June 1992)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0208023291
• ISBN-13: 978-0208023292
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 7 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8.8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #589,914 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Dr. Margaret Read MacDonald travels the world telling stories....always on the lookout for more great folktales to share. She shapes these found stories into tellable tales which anyone can share with ease. Filling her folktale collections with these delightful tales, she creates perfect read alouds for you and your family. MRM wants everyone to experience the joy of a beautifully told tale. She hopes you will read them a few times...then put down the book...put down the electronic device...and just TELL the story to your children!

Some of her favorite folktales she expands into picture books...hopefully with delightfully readable language while will roll right out of your mouth. Share them with your children and then....act the tales out! Revisit the tales by TELLING them! At bedtime. While on the road. Fill your pockets with great stories to share wherever you go.

Joining her Folklore Ph.D. with her 30 plus years as a children's librarian, Margaret brings folktales to life in playful, lilting language which should delight both reader and listener.

See her performance schedule at: www.margaretreadmaconald.com

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Great Stories, May 26, 2000

By 

"bookkm" - See all my reviews

This review is from: Peace Tales: World Folktales to Talk about (Paperback)

I have used these stories in Sunday School, and to bolster discussions, at work and in casual conversation. MacDonald has gathered a fine collection of thought provoking stories and quotes from around the world. Storytellers, teachers and counselors will all want to look at this collection.

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Well Researched, Good Variety, June 2, 2002

By 

K. Sean Buvala "Business Storyteller and Coach" (Avondale, AZ United States) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Peace Tales: World Folktales to Talk about (Paperback)

We admit that we are big fans of Ms. MacDonald. That is our bias. This book was just one more YAY!! in our fan club feelings. You will especially love the story of the -Drop of Honey- as you explore stories of how the world will be a better place when we all take responsibility with for peace. This book is not as preachy as this review and you will be sure to use some of the stories within with all and any ages. ...

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Fabulous book!, August 5, 2001

By 

Melinda Wallis "the goddess" (Kirkland, WA United States) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Peace Tales: World Folktales to Talk about (Paperback)

This excellent collection of peace tales saved us HOURS of research! Good of Margie to do it for us! We're using the books' tales to create story theater performance by kids at our national convention, a family event, of Subud, a spiritual association. Thanks to Margie MacDonald!