Tales from the Celtic Countries
What’s inside...
A collection of 15 traditional stories from the Celtic regions of Europe, retold and translated by Rhiannon Ifans. The book includes stories from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, and Brittany, each with its own unique characters, landscapes, and magical elements. The collection is complemented by another set of twelve legends from the six Celtic countries, told with vibrancy and panache, making a total of 27 captivating tales that bring the Celtic heritage to life.
Age
8-10
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What similarities and differences do you notice between the tales from different Celtic countries? How do those differences make the stories unique?
Which character in the stories did you find most interesting or inspiring? Why?
How do the landscapes described in the tales influence the mood of the story?
What lessons do you think the tales are trying to teach us about bravery and kindness?
If you could be a part of any story from the book, which one would you choose and what role would you play?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use authentic enthusiasm when discussing the stories. This encourages your child to express their thoughts and opinions openly.
Connect the themes or moral lessons from the book to real-life situations or personal family experiences, creating a deeper understanding for your child.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings for the tales or think about what they might do differently if they were a character in the stories.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This helps them visualize and further engage with the content.
Discuss the historical and cultural context of the Celtic tales to broaden your child's understanding of world literature and cultures.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: Many stories in 'Tales from the Celtic Countries' feature characters who achieve their goals by working together, emphasizing the value of collaboration and mutual support.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in group activities at school or in sports, learning to cooperate and value each member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The natural world is often portrayed as a central element in Celtic tales, teaching children to appreciate and care for the environment around them.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to participate in environmental conservation activities such as recycling, planting trees, and protecting wildlife.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Characters in these stories frequently face daunting challenges, yet their bravery and persistence lead them to overcome these obstacles, illustrating the virtue of courage.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own challenges, such as standing up against bullying or trying out for a new activity, with bravery and determination.
Example Lesson: The richness of cultural heritage
Explanation: By exploring tales from the Celtic tradition, children gain an appreciation for cultural diversity and the history behind these stories.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to explore and respect different cultures in their community and learn more about their own family's heritage.
Example Lesson: The power of storytelling
Explanation: The book demonstrates how storytelling can be a powerful means of imparting wisdom and entertainment, connecting generations.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to create and share their own stories, enhancing their communication skills and sparking their creativity.