5 Best Folklore Books of All Time

Folklore is one of those things that’s hard to define. It’s a genre that often includes fairy tales, myths, and legends. It can be serious or whimsical, dark or lighthearted. But one thing is for sure: folklore is captivating.

For centuries, people have been telling stories about heroes, monsters, and magic. And these stories have been passed down from generation to generation. If you’re looking for a goodfolklore book to read, here are five of the best.

The Once and Future King by T.H. White

There are few things as timeless as a good folktale. They've been passed down for generations, and each new telling adds a new layer of depth and meaning. The Once and Future King by T.H. White is one of the best-loved folktales of all time.

The story follows the young Arthur as he grows from a boy to a man, and takes on the mantle of king. Along the way, he must face challenges both external and internal, including the scheming Mordred and his own doubts and fears.

The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien

Few works of fantasy have had the kind of impact on both literature and pop culture as J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. First published in 1954, the novel follows the quest of a group of hobbits to destroy the One Ring before the evil Sauron can use it to enslave Middle-earth. Along the way, they are joined by humans, elves, dwarves, and other creatures in a grand adventure that has become one of the most enduring stories of all time.

The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis is a classic series of books that have been beloved by children and adults for decades. The story follows the adventures of the Pevensie siblings as they are transported to the magical world of Narnia where they must help Aslan, the lion king, defeat the evil White Witch. The books are filled with excitement, adventure, and wonder, and readers will be swept away by Lewis's skillful storytelling.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

The Harry Potter series is one of the most beloved book series of all time. It follows the story of young wizard Harry Potter as he attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, makes close friends and powerful enemies, and struggles against the evil forces that seek to defeat him and conquer the wizarding world.

The first book in the series, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, was published in 1997 and introduces readers to the magical world that J.K. Rowling has created. This book is a must-read for any fan of fantasy or folklore, and it is sure to leave you enchanted.

Percy Jackson and The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

Percy Jackson and The Lightning Thief is a bestseller that has been turned into a successful film. It tells the story of Percy, a young man with ADHD who discovers he is the son of Poseidon and must prevent a war between the Greek gods.

This book is Riordan's take on the classic hero's journey, and it is filled with action, adventure, and comedy. Percy is an engaging and likable protagonist, and the supporting cast is also well-developed. The worldbuilding is excellent, and the mythology is fascinating.

The Lightning Thief is a fast-paced and enjoyable read, and it's easy to see why it has been so popular. If you're looking for a fun fantasy adventure, this is definitely the book for you.

Conclusion

Folklore books make for some of the most magical and engaging stories, steeped in tradition and culture. We hope that these five books have provided you with a new appreciation for folklore literature and given you some ideas on which to read next.

If you are looking for more riveting tales from around the world, check out our list of must-read folklore books!