Translated by F. S. Copeland. Illustrated by Vladimir Kirin. Croatian Tales of Long Ago is a collection of six short stories, based on the author`s extensive knowledge of ancient Slavic mythology of Croatia. Mixing fairy stories with events, motifs, and legends dating back nearly a millennium, this work was one of the author`s most famous writings, and although aimed at younger readers, can easily be enjoyed by adults as well. Croatian mythology is part of the Slavic tradition, which offers readers a fascinating insight into the folklore oral traditions of deeds of valor, family relationships, local tribal conflicts, and the inevitable battle with a dragon.
The stories are gripping; the characters clearly defined; there is good and evil-and good always wins. This is a classic work which is essential for anyone wishing to experience a neglected, but important part of European cultural history. Contents How Quest Sought the Truth Fisherman Plunk and His Wife Reygoch Bridesman Sun and Bride Bridekins Stribor`s Forest Little Brother Primrose and Sister Lavender Notes About the author: Ivana Berlic-Mazuranic (1874-1938) was one of Croatia`s most famous children`s writers. After being nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature four times, she was inducted in the Yugoslav Academy of Sciences and Arts in 1937.
