WHY CHILDREN STILL LOVE MYTHS AND LEGENDS. by Sharon Tregenza

I've been researching and writing a local myths and legends recently and was thinking about how they've endured. Despite the advances in technology, these stories have stood the test of time, and myths and folklore continue to influence children's literature.

I think one reason is their dramatic settings and colourful characters.  Who could resist a flying horse or a hero who travels through the underworld.

Here are three of the most popular children's books or series influenced by myths:

The 'Who let the Gods out' series by Maz Evans takes the prize for funniest. A laugh out loud romp with Olympian Gods from ancient Greek mythology.  

The Heroes of Olympus series by Rick Riordan has now sold an astonishing 55 million copies. With monsters roaming the woods and demigods shooting flaming arrows Jason, Piper and Leo have their work cut out.

Norse Myths: Tales of Odin, Thor and Loki by Kevin Crossley-Holland introduces children to Norse Mythology through enchanting stories.

Myths and legends are rooted in culture and through them children are introduced to diverse world views and ancient civilisations. They help build curiosity and empathy in an an adventurous way. Long may they remain part of children's literature.

sharontregenza@gmail.com

www.sharontregenza.com

PISKIES, MERMAIDS AND GIANTS by Sharon Tregenza

I recently published a small educational book with OUP based on a Cornish myth. This triggered a long-time wish to delve deeper into the folklore and legends that were a part of my upbringing. Cornwall has a rich heritage of stories and superstitions. I got really engrossed with the research (for engrossed read obsessed) and ended up with three huge folders crammed full of stories of mermaids, witches, giants and much, much more.

 

It's wonderful stuff. Here's a taster...

 

PISKIES, MERMAIDS AND GIANTS

PISKIES: mischievous little creatures known for dancing and playfulness. Their leader is Joan the Wad. They supposedly inhabit stone circles and ancient barrows. As a kid I convinced myself that I saw several of these little folk in the wood near our house.

MERMAIDS: Probably the most famous Cornish mermaid is the mermaid of Zennor who's wonderful singing lured a local man, Mathew Trewhella, away from the village never to be seen again. I claim a sort of kinship to this particular mermaid - my mother was a Trewhella. 

GIANTS: If you've been to Cornwall you'll know St Michael's Mount - the tidal island off Cornwall's southern coast with the fairy-tale castle on top. It's said that the giant, Cormoron, carried white granite from the mainland to build it. If you walk up to the castle you'll see a heart-shaped stone on the pathway. It's all that's left of the giant - if you stand still and listen carefully, you'll hear it beat. As an eight-year old I knew I heard the thrum of the giant's blood.

I'm not sure yet what I want to do with this treasure trove. Maybe take  the legends as they stand and adapt them for children. Maybe incorporate the mythical stories into contemporary MG fiction. Maybe both. In the meantime, I need to stop researching - but it's so addictive isn't it. 

MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE.

www.sharontregenza.com

Email: sharontregenza@gmail.com