FOLKTALES FROM INDIAN LITERATURE

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1. BOOK NAME: WHISPERS AND REFLECTIONS: FOLK TALES FROM GOA

AUTHOR NAME: EDITED AND COMPILED BY DR. SHARMILA PAIS

GENRE: FOLKLORE





BOOK REVIEW

I unlocked this treasure during my quest for a book translated from Konkani, featuring simple, memorable short stories. This is a collection of brief tales and essays based on the Goan folklore passed on from generation to generation. A lot of these stories are based on the local culture and ethnicity and can't be found published in the original language elsewhere. The writers acknowledge that these are tales that have been passed down by their grandparents and parents in Konkani, which they went on to write in English. A few of them also come with the original text attached to the corresponding story.


All these stories are rich in values and ethics and induce a deep sense of nostalgia. Some even reminded me of my own grandmother, who used to narrate similar stories set in our culture and locality. All these stories are short and sweet and have a very fulfilling ending, though they are only two to three pages long. There are giants who eat humans for fun, talking animals, helping dolls and much more. They all felt very close to home, heartwarming and evocative, reminding me of my childhood days filled with stories and people. The compilation also gave a close view of Konkani literature, customs and moral values. It was nice to see writers from Goa, from all walks of life, come together to share a bit of their childhood and history in one place. 


I would recommend this book to readers of all ages, though it is best suited for children. 


2. BOOK NAME: SANTAL FOLK TALES

AUTHOR NAME: COMPILED AND TRANSLATED FROM THE SANTALI BY A. CAMPBELL

GENRE: FOLK TALES

PUBLISHER: SANTAL MISSION PRESS, POKHURIA




BOOK REVIEW

I finally realise why we say that we are all connected by stories though we all belong to different geopolitical, demographic, and socioeconomic sections. Because all the folk tales translated from Santali in this book feel like stories I have been told about as a child, only with unconventional endings. A few of them are very original to the Santals, and a few are modified and revised tales that reflect their customs and practices.


These tales are all very loosely written, they don't follow any code of discipline or morals or religious preaching. They are just stories written for fun and they should be read for the same value and nothing else. Some I liked, some not much, some I would recommend, some I would rather not. It's neither too great nor too bad. It was okayish and read it if you have the time for it. 


This is a part of BlogchatterA2Z2026 challenge

#penbooksandscalpel


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