New Releases by Rosalind Kerven

A captivating collection of stories, retold by master folklorist Rosalind Kerven, offering a new perspective on the climate breakdown that threatens our modern world. Inspired by traditional myths and folklore from across the world and retold with integrity and respect, the stories in this collection offer a hopeful perspective on how we can better appreciate the natural environment and the species that share our planet. The book is split into five chapters: “In the Beginning,” “The World in Trouble,” “Respect the Earth,” “Our Animal Relations,” and “World Without End.” Among these fascinating tales are a retelling of the Rainbow Serpent myth from Benin, a Chinese story of dragons that help control the climate, a spiritual tale about a desert stream from Tunisia, a Canadian First Nations story about the coexistence of humans and bears, and a Norse legend about rebirth in springtime. Each story is accompanied by carefully researched notes, detailing the cultural and historical background and other related tales. The perfect antidote to climate anxiety, this book harnesses time-honored wisdom to help imagine how we can transcend environmental degradation and species loss to offer a more harmonious vision of our life on earth.

From mermaids to dragons, 16 ancient Celtic fairy tales retold with their histories The Celtic cultures of the British Isles – Ireland, Scotland and Wales – have produced some of the richest traditional tales in Europe. Three words best sum up their themes and flavour: adventure, enchantment and romance. In this book, Rosalind Kerven has revived the best Celtic fairy tales for a new generation. The stories are sourced from old folk tale collections from all three regions, alongside selected medieval Welsh and Irish texts. • Visit mysterious Otherworlds inside the hills and below the sea – including a land where only the truth is ever spoken. • Meet iconic characters such as the first great Welsh poet, Taliesin, and the mighty Irish hero, Fionn mac Cumhaill. • Cheer on bold Scots lasses such as Mallie Whuppy, as she outwits a fearsome giant, and Kate Crackernuts, who rescues a prince from bewitchment. • Encounter witches, fairies, a bogle, talking animals and strange underwater beings. Each story is retold from the medieval texts and oral storytelling traditions of Ireland, Scotland and Wales, with fascinating background notes and a long list of sources and further reading included. The background notes feature a list of source material, analyses of themes, and examples of similar legends from all over Europe.

Enter a world in which magic exists, hope wins and every woman''s heart is alive with courage! This global feast of ancient tales features valiant women overcoming every kind of obstacle and danger to fulfil their destinies. Travel through Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North America and the Pacific. Shudder, cheer and laugh out loud as the heroines deal with trolls, faeries, dragons and ghosts; admire their knowledge, wit and cunning; marvel at shapeshifting and other manifestations of the supernatural. A rich collection of fairy tales, beautifully illustrated throughout with Joe McClaren woodcuts, this book is stitched together like a series of Scheherazade stories. It is story-telling at its best, pitch perfect fairy tales of fearless women for readers everywhere.

* A UNIQUE collection of romantic stories from the 12th - 15th centuries.* Authentically and entertainingly retold from translations of the original, very lengthy and complex texts.* Almost thirty stories - both famous and little known - from England, France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Portugal, Scotland, Spain and Wales.* Dramatic adventures in courtly love, mystical passion, bawdy and jocular tales, tragedy, scandal and feminist longing.* Written by a highly acclaimed expert in world legends* Essential reading for anyone interested in the popular thought and culture of the Middle Ages''Rosalind Kerven, connoisseur of myths and folktales... has translated and condensed sprawling, beautiful but inaccessible original texts from the 12th to 15th centuries into concise, elegant tales. Capturing Christian, Muslim and folk influences at play in western Europe during this period, they celebrate romantic love at the same time as offering some salient points of comparison.'' - THE INDEPENDENTDISCOVER:- The 12th century #MeToo scandal of Abelard & Heloise- Why a medieval feminist condemned the bestselling ''Romance of the Rose''- The secret heartache behind Dante''s seminal work, ''Divine Comedy''- Bawdy tales from Chaucer and Boccaccio- Why men were banned from the mysterious City of Ladies- How Queen Guinevere''s affair with Sir Lancelot brought down the legendary King Arthur- The tear-jerking twists and turns of Portuguese romantic epic, ''Amadis & Oriana''................................................................................................................................................"e;A fine collection of medieval stories...A great introduction to the whole area"e;- Professor Helen Cooper, University of Cambridge"e;A spicy collection... authentically and accessibly retold"e; - The Bookseller''A well selected collection of accessible translations''- Dr. Andrew Dunning, Curator of Medieval Manuscripts, Bodleian Libraries, Oxford

The definitive book of stories from Arthurian legend. Delve into the enchanted world of Arthurian legends where you will meet the Knights of the Round Table, Wizard Merlin, King Arthur and Queen Guinevere. With plots full of romance, adventure and enchantment, these fascinating ancient tales have been revived by the author to reflect their origins in oral history and will appeal to a whole new generation of readers. Stories include Elaine Who Loved Sir Lancelot, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Tristan and Isolde and The Enchantment of Merlin, many of which have recently been adapted in modern cinema and remain a fascination within contemporary culture. The book also features detailed notes on each story and mentions specific places in Britain with Arthurian links, including properties such as Tintagel. Beautifully illustrated with images inspired by Arthurian legend by Arthur Rackham and others.

12 classic English fairy tales and their history, from tales of dragons to Robin Hood. Folk tales and legends are an intrinsic part of English national culture. In his book, Rosalind Kerven has revived the best English fairy tales for a new generation. These are stories of giants, dragons, fairies and Arthurian Romance. Together, they form a perfect introduction to the different types of traditional stories and their place in English oral and written heritage. Each tale is linked with a specific place or county in England: ''The Dragon Castle'' from Northumberland, ''The Girl Snatched By Fairies'' from County Durham, ''The Princess and the Fool'' from Kent and ''The Dark Moon'' from Lincolnshire. The book also includes notes on each story: the history and where it came from, its development and short summaries of many related or similar stories.

A unique collection of traditional stories about faeries, elves and goblins. Faeries, elves, goblins, leprechauns, brownies, spriggans and many other supernatural beings leap vividly off the page in this collection of haunting stories. Included are 25 stories drawing on folklore from the rich narrative heritage of Britain and Ireland. Marvel over ancient spells to summon faeries to your house, tremble at the shapeshifting powers of dangerous faery queens, lose yourself amongst the illusions of Faeryland and learn how to protect family members from the terrors of faery abduction. Interspersed with facts on faery folklore, these tales cover faery morals, elvish misdemeanours, the spells cast by goblins and the sightings of the creatures, as well as their dealings with mortals. With charming illustrations from favourite illustrators throughout, including Arthur Rackham, this book reminds us of the enduring appeal of folklore and mystery for all generations.

Text from the international bestseller, originally published as an illustrated book by DK. This was recommended by the American Library Association: "e;the legend of Arthur as you''ve never seen it"e;; attracted full-length features in the Sunday Times and the TES - and sold almost quarter of a million copies in 14 countries. A beautifully written retelling of the complete King Arthur story, brought dramatically, vividly and very readably back to life. Perfect for all ages from 9 to adult. Authentically based on the iconic medieval work, Malory''s ''Morte d''Arthur'', it covers all the important episodes:* The sword in the stone* How Arthur obtained the magic sword Excalibur* His marriage to the noble Guinevere* The coming of the Knights of the Round Table* Merlin and the Lady of the Lake* The evil enchantments of Morgan le Fay* Sir Lancelot''s love affair with the Queen* The Quest for the Holy Grail* The last battle* The promise of Arthur as the ''Once and Future King''Reviews of the first edition: - "e;a delightful retelling of the story which manages to bring the story alive and captivate the reader"e; (Goodreads)- "e;This king Arthur book is amazing...although this is aimed at children as an adult King Arthur fan I think this is one of my best King Arthur books as it summarises the Malory version of the legends"e; (amazon.co.uk) - "e;I recommend this book to those who like Arthurian Mythology"e; (amazon.com)- "e;chronicles the legend...simply and accessibly... both entertaining and informative"e; (Dispatch Online)- "e;vividly brought to life"e; (Northwest Evening Mail)

* An important book about one of the world''s most inspirational yet least-known mythologies, written by an expert in the genre. * One of the most comprehensive collections of its kind. Based on three years'' research through hundreds of archives, revealing a treasure trove of material, some never before available to the general UK reader. * Over 100 ancient stories, verse narratives, songs, anecdotes and fragments of wisdom, sourced from 55 different Native American peoples.* Extraordinary allegories that explore universal human concerns, promoting harmony between people and respect for the environment.* Unforgettable characters include the Thunderbirds, Spider Woman, Raven, the Sun, Bear Mother and the Keeper of the Brains of the Dead.* Includes fascinating information about the original Native American storytellers and their diverse cultural backgrounds.

Written in consultation with leading academics.

Re-issue of this highly acclaimed book, previously published by Cambridge University Press under the title In The Court of the Jade Emperor: Stories from Old China - first edition 1993, second edition 1999.Reviews from the first edition:** ''What riches there are to be read here! A wonderful variety of stories...and in a variety of tellers'' voices, so that every story is different and a delightful surprise. The language itself is immediate... the words have a truth and depth... this is a book both to instruct us on Chinese culture and to delight our narrative thirst. A real find!'' - School Librarian** ''luminously clear prose'' - Times Education Supplement** ''Rosalind Kerven is the author of a number of excellent retellings from around the world, and this collection is as good as the others. The language is lively and direct ... the stories have a timeless feel but are easy to read'' - English and Media Magazine ** SELECTED BY THE FEDERATION OF CHILDREN''S BOOK GROUPS FOR NATIONAL TELL A STORY WEEK, 1994A rich tapestry of stories full of extraordinary magic. Read about stern Dragon Kings and enchanted Dragon Princesses; laugh at the outrageous adventures of the super-hero King Monkey; mingle with a colourful crowd of gods and goddesses; visit the terrifying Palace of Boundless Cold; and even discover the secrets of Everlasting Life. The stories will transport you right into the heart and mind of ancient China - one of the oldest and greatest civilisations in the world. ** Stories tried and tested in primary schools over many years - perfect for reading alone or reading aloud ** Ideal for the government''s National Curriculum English statutory requirements: ''increasing familiarity with ... fairy stories, myths and legends''** Fun and informative for readers of all ages including adults.Full contents:THE EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURES OF KING MONKEYPart 1 - In Which Monkey Proves That Nothing Is ImpossiblePart 2 - In Which Monkey Gets Too Big For His BootsPart 3 - In Which Monkey Tastes The Peaches Of ImmortalityPart 4 - In Which Monkey Takes A Giant Leap To NowhereWOMAN-OF-THE-MOON, MAN-OF-THE-SUNTHE FARMER AND THE WEAVING GODDESS (Selected for the Puffin Book of Stories for Nine-Year-Olds)DARKNESSTHE PALACE OF BOUNDLESS COLD (Selected for the Puffin Book of Stories for Eight-Year-Olds)THE GOLDEN KEYTHE MAN WHO DID DRAGON''S WORKTHE HOT PIG AND THE DRAGON PRINCESSTHE GIRL WHO WENT HER OWN WAYCAKES AND KITCHENSSTORM GIRLTHE BOYS WHO FELL OUT OF TIMEBACKGROUND TO THE STORIES

THRILLING, ACTION PACKED HISTORICAL ADVENTURESVividly set in the Viking Age - full of sword fights, treasure, pirates, adventurous sea journeys, kings, queens, runes and belief in the supernatural.Four-books-in-one edition of this HIGHLY ACCLAIMED series, recommended by numerous reviewers, teachers and young readers. - ''If you''ve not discovered Grim Gruesome yet, where have you been! ...Vividly told scary adventure...you can''t stop reading'' - Primary Times- ''Dahl-style jokes and adventure'' - The Times - ''horrible but also funny...wonderful'' - TES- ''Full of twists and turns that you are desperate to follow'' - www.justimaginestorycentre.co.uk- ''A page turner...dramatic and vivid...fast-paced and enjoyable'' - Birmingham Post- Shortlisted for the Solihull Children''s Book Award and Lancashire Fantastic Book AwardAN UNFORGETTABLE VILLAIN!Grim Gruesome is a mysterious, hideous, shape-shifting trickster - charismatic yet evil, the terror of the North Lands. He has sworn to harm as many children as he can. No one has ever seen his face, but he can be recognised by his repulsive, pus-oozing finger stump with hypnotic powers.In each story Grim appears incognito, and in a different disguise, to lure young victims into his power. He weakens them with terrifying threats and throws them into horrifically dangerous situations. At first escape seems impossible. However, in true fairy tale style, children always overcome him by drawing on their own courage, determination and inner strength. LOTS OF CHILD APPEAL- Child-centred fiction with the emphasis on a gripping, thrilling story. - Strong appeal to both girls and boys- Written in a page-turning style with short chapters ending on cliffhangers.- Scary yet buoyant and touched with dark humour.- Vividly written: rich plots and colourful characters.- Short chapters, snappy sentences and constant drama - accessible to all reading abilities.- Language that''s direct and pithy - look out for some unique Viking curses!

This title is part of Bug Club, the first whole-school reading programme that joins books with an online reading world to teach today''s children to read. This title is suitable for ages 7-8 (Brown level).

Bold, colourful readers with kid-friendly characters and subjects they''d choose for themselves.

Bold, colourful readers with kid-friendly characters and subjects they''d choose for themselves.

Adventure. ''Lock away your children! Beware the Rings of Doom!'' An ominous warning... A dramatic volcanic eruption... A rune-message bringing an unexpected gift of silver treasure...?Vividly set against the landscape of Viking Iceland with its turf houses, snow-capped volcanoes, black lava desert and boiling mud pools, the new Grim Gruesome story is another richly wrought and passionate tale in which nothing is quite what it seems.

Built for Guided Reading at Key Stage 2.

Built for Guided Reading at Key Stage 2

Built for Guided Reading at Key Stage 2

Part of the Rigby Navigator series that builds on the foundations laid by Rigby Star Guided for successful guided reading lessons at KS2.

Built for Guided Reading at Key Stage 2

A quest for treasure inside a haunted troll-mound, a boy condemned as an outlaw and banished to the wilderness and a cruel trick that lands two young girls in mortal danger, Grim Gruesome''s cunning knows no bounds! There are lots of surprises and emotional challenges in this adventure.

"Grim Gruesome is on his way to the Viking town of Jorvik! Dalla and her older brothers Aki and Frodi are terrified. Should they trust the fierce ''berserk'' warrior who offers them protection? Or seek help from the Queen of Jorvik -- even though everyone says she''s a witch?" --Publisher.

The story is set in a larger-than-life Viking world, where Bjarni the pigboy and Astrid, the landowner''s daughter have a budding romance and no future until a massive and mysterious figure looms out of the mist. He says he is Astrid''s uncle and suggests that Bjarni should try making his fortune as a pirate. But it isn''t giving too much away to reveal that this is Grim Gruesome himself and he soon has both children firmly under his spell. He is an unredeemable monster, who just hates children, for no apparent reason, but hasn''t allowed for how resisitant these two are.