Tales of the Edge of the World

A collection of five tales, dealing with such themes as the value of courage and the triumph of good over evil, set in the medieval Land of the Edge of the World

Grade 6-8-- Set in the magical, medieval Land of the Edge of the World--sandwiched between the Wild Forest and the Fathomless Pit--each of these five fantasy tales focuses on the deeds of folkloric characters such as the Wild Man of the Woods, the vengeful Boggarts, a Wise Woman, Jack O' the World, and Queen Freya (whose hobby is digging in her potato garden). Stanzas of verse, suggesting fragments of old ballads and sagas, pepper the text throughout, underscoring traditional settings and plots. Yet while these tales center on such standard themes as triumph of good over evil, gaining of self-identity and wisdom, along with the value of courage, they also highlight the importance of respect and tolerance among peoples and the dangers of mass media and propaganda. Many readers will appreciate Riley's affectionate parody of the folkale format that is similar in its humor, but easier than William Goldman's The Princess Bride (HBJ, 1973). He certainly offers to both avid and reluctant readers a warm and accepting welcome into fantasy and folklore. Morris's light illustrations are sprinkled throughout and capably reflect the medieval mood and the engaging personalities populating the five witty tales.
- James Jeske, Chicago Public Library
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.