What are Stories of Old?

by Sheri Wall, Children’s Book Author

“The stories of old are meant to be shared and treasured, imparting wonder to all who read them.” — S. Wall

What exactly are “stories of old?” There are three types of stories that come to mind when I hear this phrase.

Folk Tales

The dictionary defines folk tales as:

1. a tale or legend originating and traditional among a people or folk, especially one forming part of the oral tradition of the common people
2. any belief or story passed on traditionally, especially one considered to be false or based on superstition

Myths

The definition of myth has more variations as related to stories:

1. a traditional or legendary story, usually concerning some being or hero or event, with or without a determinable basis of fact or a natural explanation, especially one that is concerned with deities or demigods and explains some practice, rite, or phenomenon of nature
2. stories or matter of this kind
3. any invented story, idea, or concept

Legends

The winner by far in the total number of definitions, here are the ones story-related:

1. a nonhistorical or unverifiable story handed down by tradition from earlier times and popularly accepted as historical
2. the body of stories of this kind, especially as they relate to a particular people, group, or clan

3. a collection of stories about an admirable person

Fables and Fairy Tales are also notable synonyms. Fables often have animals or inanimate objects as main characters, whereas fairy tales showcase elves, hobgoblins, dragons, fairies, or other magical creatures.

Stories of old are an important part of primary school curriculums in the United States. Children will read and learn about them, and they may also have the opportunity to write their own. To help support their learning process, here are the current (at the time of this writing) Top Five Best Sellers in Children’s American Folk Tales & Myths on Amazon:

1. Seeds and Trees by Brandon Walden — I’ve personally read this story about the power of words, and it’s more than a children’s book; it’s a life lesson that adults can benefit from too. Keep tissues handy.
2. The Green Ember by S.D. Smith — This is the first in a series about the sensational adventures of courageous rabbits.
3. The Bear and The Fern by Jay Miletsky — This story, about friendship and perseverance, is another tissue-worthy book I’ve personally enjoyed.
4. The Legend of the Bluebonnet by Tomie dePaola — A story featuring a little Comanche girl and a very special gift is a favorite in Texas classrooms.
5. Arrow To The Sun: A Pueblo Indian Tale by Gerald McDermott — A young boy searching for his father must first prove his worthiness and survive four ceremonial chambers.

Preorder on Indiegogo Now!

I was recently given the honor of rewriting a story of old in rhyme. Maiden Mermaid: The Tale of Sirena fits into many of the definitions above: legend, myth, folk tale, fairy tale, perhaps even fable with a talking catfish as a character! If you’d like to curl up with your child on the couch while getting a jumpstart on their elementary school literature lessons, definitely consider one of the five best sellers above. If you want to be part of a unique opportunity to keep a legend alive, you can preorder Maiden Mermaid: The Tale of Sirena on Indiegogo now. All proceeds go toward the production of the book. You’ll get extras, including activity sheets designed by an elementary curriculum specialist, to enhance the learning process, and some other “just for fun” goodies too. Check out the campaign for even more history on Sirena and her magical story.

Sheri Wall is a wife and mom of two boys residing in Central Texas. All of her rhyming books are designed and written to help children learn! Sign up for Sheri’s A Matter of Rhyme newsletter at amatterofrhyme.com.