About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts showing a deep fascination with the 'how' and 'why' of magic, moving beyond modern sparkly tropes toward the gritty roots of world mythology. This classic collection by Roger Lancelyn Green serves as an excellent bridge for children who have outgrown simple fairy tales but still crave the wonder of legendary sorcerers and ancient spells. It provides a historical and literary foundation for the fantasy genre, introducing figures like Merlin, Circe, and Michael Scott with academic rigor and a storyteller's heart. The collection explores the duality of power, contrasting the wisdom of the 'good' magician with the hubris of the 'dark' sorcerer. It is ideal for the 8 to 12 age range, offering a sophisticated vocabulary and complex narrative structures that challenge young readers while rewarding their curiosity. Parents will appreciate how it grounds popular fantasy concepts in genuine folklore, fostering a more profound appreciation for global storytelling traditions and the historical evolution of the hero's journey.
