Subject
Fairy tales -- Czechoslovakia Books
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Parker Fillmore
Czechoslovak Fairy Tales
"Czechoslovak Fairy Tales" by Parker Fillmore is a collection of folk tales that draws from the rich narrative traditions of Czech, Slovakian, and Moravian cultures, crafted into a format appealing to American children. The book primarily belongs to the early 20th century, as indicated by the copyright details. This anthology aims to preserve the magic of these stories while making them accessible and entertaining, featuring tales that revolve around themes of adventure, magical creatures, and heroic figures. The opening portion introduces readers to the fairy tale "Longshanks, Girth, and Keen," which follows a young prince directed by his father to find a wife. When he discovers a picture of a stunning yet captive princess, he embarks on a quest to rescue her from a powerful magician. On his journey through treacherous forest, he meets three extraordinary companions: Longshanks, who can stretch his body, Girth, who can expand to enormous sizes, and Keen, whose sharp vision can crumble rocks. As they navigate daunting challenges and confront the magician, the story sets the tone for a series of exciting and whimsical adventures, showcasing the loyalty and bravery of both the prince and his quirky allies.
Parker Fillmore
The Shoemaker's Apron: A Second Book of Czechoslovak Fairy Tales and Folk Tales
"The Shoemaker's Apron: A Second Book of Czechoslovak Fairy Tales and Folk Tales" by Parker Fillmore is a collection of folk and fairy tales written in the early 20th century. This volume presents a vibrant retelling of twenty stories that originate from Czech, Moravian, and Slovak traditions, showcasing a rich tapestry of Slavic imagination and culture. The tales are aimed especially at young English-speaking readers, aiming to delight with themes of magic, adventure, and the virtues of kindness and cleverness. At the start of the collection, readers are introduced to the story of "The Twelve Months," which follows Marushka, a mistreated stepchild who is tasked by her envious sister Holena to find violets in the depths of winter. She encounters the personified months of the year, who magically assist her in finding flowers despite the heavy snow. The narrative is framed with elements of familial conflict, perseverance, and the kindness of strangers, vividly setting the tone for the enchanting and whimsical tales that follow in the book. Fillmore’s skillful retelling promises a captivating journey through jest, moral lessons, and the charm of Czech folklore.
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