Aetiological myths or tails, also known as origin myths, explain the reasons for the existence of something today. These myths often feature gods, monsters, or heroes who performed an action in the past that has shaped the current world. The reasons the stories provide are not scientific, but rather explanations that have meaning for humans. There are three subtypes of aetiological myths: natural, etymological, and religious. Natural myths often attribute natural phenomena, such as lightning and thunder, to divine explanations like Zeus being angry or in Chinese mythology where lightning was associated with the flash of a dragon's eyes. Dragons were celestial beings believed to traverse the skies and influence weather patterns.
Sacred Skies by
From the earliest times, people have told stories about the natural world -- stories that celebrate Earth's wonders and explain its mysteries. Set amid nature's rich landscapes, these stories have become our legends and myths. This fascinating series of books studies these myths and legends, as well as the facts that inspired them.
Lazo a la Luna by
This ALA Notable Children's Book shares a magical folktale--in Spanish and English--about Fox and Mole who go to the moon with a little help from their friends.
Tales of the Shimmering Sky by
For ages 4 to 8 years. Although the sky is here for us to discover today, it links us to our past as well. Join award-winning author, Susan Milord, on an ethnic journey and an incredible adventure into the mysteries of the day and night, sun, moon and stars, the seasons and the weather, as revealed through the global wisdom of the ages and exciting hands-on activities. Plus six more tales from Europe, Canada, Polynesia, Africa and the Americas -- each with story-related activities that investigate the science of the shimmering sky, as well as cultures, arts and crafts, cooking, maths, games and history.
Earth Tales from Around the World by
Stories, lesson plans, and activities that explore the Earth's offerings.
Tsunami! by
Ojiisan, the oldest and wealthiest man in the village, doesn't join the others at the rice ceremony. Instead he watches from his balcony. He feels something is coming; something he can't describe. When he sees the monster wave pulling away from the beach, he knows. Tsunami! But the villagers below can't see the danger. Will Ojiisan risk everything he has to save them? Can he? Illustrated in stunning collage by Caldecott winner Ed Young, here is the unforgettable story of how one man's simple sacrifice saved hundreds of lives. An extraordinary celebration of both the power of nature and the power each of us holds within.
Why the Sun and the Moon Live in the Sky by
Sun and his wife, the moon, lived on Earth and built a large house so that the water people could visit. But so many poured in that they were forced to move to the sky.
Keepers of the Earth by
Joseph Bruchac, coauthor of The Keepers of the Earth series, is a nationally acclaimed Native American storyteller and writer who has authored more than 70 books of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry for adults and children. He lives in upstate New York. Michael J. Caduto is an award-winning author, master storyteller, poet, musician, educator, and ecologist. He has received numerous awards, including the New York State Outdoor Education Association's Art and Literary Award, New England's Regional Award for Excellence in Environmental Education, the American Booksellers' "Pick of the List" Award, and the Association of Children's Booksellers' Choice Award, among others.
Gadi Mirrabooka by
Take a journey into the fascinating world of Australia's Aboriginal culture with this unique collection of 33 authentic, unaltered stories brought to you by three Aboriginal storyteller custodians! Unlike other compilations of tales that were modified and published without permission from the Aboriginal people, these stories are now presented with approval from Aboriginal elders in an effort to help foster a better understanding of the history and culture of the Aboriginal people. Gadi Mirrabooka, which means below the Southern Cross, introduces wonderful tales from the Dreamtime, the mystical period of Aboriginal beginning. Through these stories you can learn about customs and values, animal psychology, hunting and gathering skills, cultural norms, moral behavior, the spiritual belief system, survival skills, and food resources. A distinctive and absolutely compelling story collection, this book is an immensely valuable treasure for educators, parents, children, and adult readers. Grades K-A
The Eagle on the Cactus by
This beautiful tapestry of traditional tales, history, folk arts, and dance offers you a glimpse into the living legacy of Mexican folklore. After an overview of Mexico's history from the Mesoamerican indigenous era to modern times, Vigil explores the fascinating traditions of Oaxacan wood carving, Huichol bead and yarn art, folk masks, folklorico dance costumes, and Mexican folklore. A collection of tales follows, including classic tales, pourquoi creation tales from native people of pre-Hispanic Mexico, and tales from the Spanish colonial era of Mexican history-trickster tales, adventure and wonder stories, and animal fables. Lively reading for older students and adults, the tales may also be used for read-alouds with younger students. With 15 of the 44 tales presented in Spanish as well as in English, this is an excellent resource for Spanish classes and for Spanish-speaking readers. The fascinating background material also makes the book an excellent source for reports and research. Color plates