Books: Korean Folktales: Celebrate Children's Book Day

Reading to children is a wonderful activity for both the child and the reader.  They are saying that coloring books are proving to be an excellent therapeutic activity for senior citizens.  I'm not really into coloring because I spend so much time online blogging,  They should also say that reading books for children is great therapy for adults as well.  This I know for a fact!  Children's books are usually very quick reads and provide me with a delightful escape.  They have tremendous therapeutic value.  

A specific genre that I enjoy reading is folktales from different countries.  I discovered folktales because when I first decided to work from home, one of the work-at-home ideas suggested was translating folktales.  I did not pursue this endeavor but I did find that our local public library had a treasure trove of folktales in the children's literature section.  I could suggest several; however, for this blog post, I'll only suggest one. Tales of a Korean Grandmother: 32 Traditional Tales from Korea

There is a description on Amazon that described this book better than any words I could come up with.

"This multicultural children's book presents classic Korean fairy tales and other folk stories—providing a delightful look into a rich literary culture."  

Tales of a Korean Grandmother: 32 Traditional Tales from Korea

Enough said. Need a diversion from the arduous grind of your daily work? Read a children's book. Pick a folktale.  Do you have a favorite folktale?

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Children's Book Day is celebrated annually on April 2nd.

Shaloo Walia Recommends 10 Children's Books Everyone Should Read

Meet Shaloo Walia, vlogger and book enthusiast. I am subscribed to her channel and you should be too. She shares her reviews and recommendations for books to add to your reading list.  I personally enjoy her videos about children's books, but she shares suggestions for a wide range of books, for children and adults.

Here are her 10 Children's Books EVERYONE Should Read

Check to see if Shaloo's suggestions are audio books available at Audible, an Amazon Company:  Books for Children

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Children's Book Day is celebrated annually on April 2nd.

Three (3) Engaging Book Series for Young Readers: Adventure, Mystery & Magic

No matter the generation—Gen Z, Gen Alpha, or whatever comes next—kids thrive when they’re immersed in stories. Books don’t just entertain; they build empathy, spark curiosity, and help young minds explore worlds beyond their own. 

If you're looking for book series that will captivate young readers and keep them coming back for more, here are three standout picks that blend history, fantasy, and thrilling adventure. They are the best book series for kids.  (IMHO.)

AI_Generated Image Created Using DreamUP AI Art Tool

(1) The Roman Mysteries by Caroline Lawrence

Historical fiction for young readers:  Set in ancient Rome, this award-winning mystery series follows four young sleuths as they unravel secrets of the empire. With vivid historical detail and fast-paced plots, these books are perfect for readers who love solving puzzles and learning about the past.

Meet the main characters:

• Flavia Gemina – The clever daughter of a Roman sea captain.

• Nubia – A brave African girl rescued from slavery.

• Jonathan ben Mordecai – A thoughtful Jewish-Christian boy with a knack for logic.

• Lupus – A mute beggar boy whose silence hides a sharp mind.

**Bonus: The series was adapted into a BBC television show, bringing the adventures to life onscreen.

(2) Redwall by Brian Jacques (1939–2011)

Fantasy books for kids: In a world of brave woodland creatures, peace and heroism collide in this epic fantasy saga. The Redwall series spans 22 novels, each filled with battles, quests, and richly imagined settings that rival any human fantasy world.

Why kids love it:

• Talking animals with distinct personalities and cultures.

• Themes of courage, friendship, and justice.

• Lush descriptions and immersive storytelling.

**TV Adaptation: The animated series focuses on three key books—Redwall, Mattimeo, and Martin the Warrior—and serves as a great entry point for new fans.

(3) Chronicles of the Stone Series by Fiona Ingram

Children's adventure books:  Inspired by a real-life trip to Egypt, this trilogy blends archaeology, mythology, and high-stakes adventure. Adam and Justin Sinclair must solve a 5,000-year-old mystery and recover the seven Stones of Power before dark forces beat them to it.

What makes it special:

• Real historical sites and legends are woven into the plot.

• Fast-paced action with educational depth.

• A global journey that spans continents and cultures.

*Perfect for readers who love Indiana Jones-style thrills with a touch of ancient magic.

Image credit: Book mug

📚 Final Thoughts

Whether your child loves solving mysteries, exploring ancient worlds, or joining woodland warriors in epic battles, these series offer unforgettable journeys. Each one opens the door to imagination, learning, and a lifelong love of reading.

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Children's Book Day is celebrated annually on April 2nd.

Chuldren's Books: Joseph Jacobs – Father of Fairy Tales

"If you want your children to be intelligent, read them fairy tales. If you want them to be more intelligent, read them more fairy tales."

This quote is often attributed to Albert Einstein.  But do you know who they call the Father of Fairy Tales?

Fairy tales or stories about fairies are probably in every culture but with regard to fairies in British folklore, many would be happy to thank Joseph Jacobs. In England, he is called the “Father of FairyTales”.

Have you always been fascinated by legends, myths, and folklore – giants, ogres, and fairies (faeries)? Especially, fairy tales? To me, they reflect the wonder of a human’s uninhibited imagination. There is no reason to restrict the flow of creativity. Why not let your mind wander and explore “worlds” that you would probably never get to visit otherwise?

“Fay” is the archaic English word for faeries (fairies), and it means“enchanted” or “bewitched”. Fairies are very popular imaginary creatures, particularly in British folklore. Interesting that just like they were supposedly good witches and bad witches, apparently some fairies or faeries were thought to be mischievous and malicious, while others possessed more noble characteristics and helped the human race.

In England, Joseph Jacobs (1854-1916), is considered the “father of fairy tales”. He is credited with collecting them and then presenting versions of these stories in a form suitable for reading to young children. His diligent preservation efforts helped transform these traditional tales into timeless children’s classics.

● Where To Find Fascinating Facts About Fairy Tales

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Children's Book Day is celebrated annually on April 2nd.

Review of Ayumi’s Violin by Mariko Tatsumoto (Reblog)

This post is from the blog of a dear friend who writes book reviews. She chooses books in a variety of different categories: from animal stories to tutorials, fiction, and non-fiction. When I really want to indulge myself, I read a children's book, or I listen to music, or do both. I particularly enjoy the violin. 

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I appreciate books for children that address cultural diversity and that encourage children to become interested in music. That's why I chose this specific post to reblog.  Also, this is a "coming to America" story.  It makes me feel so blessed that I was born in America and that no matter what others might say about my country ... this is truly a land of opportunity!

Review of Ayumi’s Violin by Mariko Tatsumoto: 

"Ayumi, a biracial love child, an outcast in Japan, had to face post WW2 prejudice when sent to live in America after her mother died. She had never met her father ..."

NOTE: Apologies for the broken link.  (https://www.barbsbooks.com/2017/06/24/review-ayumis-violin-mariko-tatsumoto/)  This blog is/was published by a friend who has been diagnosed with aphasia.  The review was excellent.  There isn't even an archived copy of the post.  Sorry.