Books About Folktale

The Best Folktale Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about folktale? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

Graphic Nov.

Graphic Nov.

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Folktale

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 5–9 · 2020

Freedom Bird

By Jerdine Nolen, James E. Ransome (Illustrator)

A mysterious bird inspires siblings to escape slavery and seek freedom.

32 pages· 1,516 words· Est. 12 min read-aloud

5.4/7 Bookroo experts·3.8/5 Goodreads · 189 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Summary: On Simon Plenty's plantation, siblings Millicent and John endure endless hardships. Their parents' tales of ancestors flying to freedom linger in their hearts. When a mysterious bird appears, it ignites their courage to escape. Will they find the freedom they dream of, or will the past's shadows hold them back? This tale of hope and transformation unfolds with the magic of a folktale.

Sale price

$2184

Chapter Book · Ages 6–12 · 2021

Lore of the Wild

By Claire Cock-Starkey, Aitch (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Nature’s Folklore series

Uncover the mystical folklore of nature's secrets and ancient wisdom.

80 pages

4.3/5 Goodreads · 315 ratings

$22.99Save 5%

Summary: Explore a world where rabbits predict storms and flowers hold fairy secrets. This beautifully illustrated collection reveals the enchanting folklore of animals, plants, and celestial wonders. Discover ancient beliefs and superstitions that connect us to nature's mysteries. Will you find the hidden truths in these tales?

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 6–9 · 2023

The Skull (Graphic Novel)

By Jon Klassen

A young girl runs away from home and finds refuge in a mysterious old house with a talking skull as her host.

112 pages· 1,906 words· Est. 29 min read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 17,437 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Summary: Otilla, fleeing danger, stumbles upon a desolate house in the woods, home to a mysterious skull. As night falls, both fear what lurks in the shadows. Can Otilla uncover the skull's secret and save them from the nightly terror? This eerie tale blends suspense with subtle humor, inviting readers into a world where bravery and mystery intertwine.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2022

Kapaemahu

By Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu, Dean Hamer, Joe Wilson, Daniel Sousa (Illustrator)

Forgotten stones hold ancient healing powers on Waikiki Beach.

40 pages

4.4/5 Goodreads · 1,012 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Summary: In the 15th century, four Mahu, beings of dual spirit, journey from Tahiti to Hawaii, sharing healing arts with Waikiki's people. Honored with four sacred stones, their legacy fades as time passes. By the 1960s, the stones are forgotten, yet their mystical power still whispers to those who pass by. What secrets do these ancient boulders hold, and who will uncover their true story? Discover the enduring magic of the Mahu and the hidden history of Waikiki Beach.

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1980

The Legend of Old Befana

By Tomie dePaola

A lonely woman follows a star, seeking a child who changes everything.

32 pages· 1,205 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud

5.3/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 1,295 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Summary: Old Befana, a solitary woman known for her constant sweeping, lives a life of routine. But one night, a radiant star appears, leading her to a procession of three kings journeying to Bethlehem. Drawn by their quest to find a special child, Befana's world is transformed. Will she find what she seeks, or will her search continue forever? This enchanting tale weaves together mystery and hope, inviting readers to join Befana on her timeless journey.

Sale price

$1895

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2021

The Sister Who Ate Her Brothers

By Jen Campbell, Adam de Souza (Illustrator)

Dare to explore fairy tales' dark origins in a chilling global collection.

120 pages

4.1/5 Goodreads · 1,236 ratings

$19.95Save 5%

Summary: Venture into a world where fairy tales reclaim their gruesome roots. This collection of fourteen stories from around the globe, including a chilling Korean tale of a carnivorous child, offers a modern twist with diverse characters. Each tale is a haunting journey, illustrated with moody, Gothic-inspired art. Will you brave these eerie narratives and uncover the sinister truths behind familiar stories? Discover the unexpected in this thrilling anthology that challenges the boundaries of traditional storytelling.

Sale price

$1248

Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 1841

The Three Billy Goats Gruff

By Paul Galdone

Three goats must outsmart a hungry troll to reach their meadow paradise.

40 pages· 478 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud

4.2/5 Goodreads · 16,361 ratings

$12.99Save 4%

Summary: Three hungry Billy Goats Gruff face a daunting challenge: crossing a bridge guarded by a fearsome troll to reach a lush meadow. As they attempt to outwit the troll, suspense builds—will they succeed or become the troll's next meal? This classic tale of cleverness and courage unfolds with rhythmic storytelling, inviting readers to join the goats on their daring adventure. Discover how each goat's unique approach might just be the key to overcoming the troll's menacing presence. A timeless story of bravery and wit awaits in this engaging retelling.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1398

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2023

Stories of the Islands (Graphic Novel)

By Clar Angkasa

Girls defy curses and giants in a magical land. Can they save themselves?

176 pages

4.1/5 Goodreads · 698 ratings

$14.99Save 7%

Summary: In a world of magic, a cursed princess, two sisters, and a mother-daughter duo face daunting challenges. With no one to rescue them, these girls must harness their own power to fight evil and seek their own happy endings. Dive into reimagined Indonesian folktales where the heroines take charge, battling curses and giants. Will they rewrite their destinies and prove that girls can be their own saviors? Experience a vibrant journey of empowerment and connection in this beautifully illustrated graphic novel.

Sale price

$2374

Picture Book · Ages 8–12 · 2016

A Year Full of Stories

By Angela McAllister, Christopher Corr (Illustrator) · World Full of . . . series

Journey through a year of global tales, celebrating cultures and festivals with a story for every week.

128 pages

4.2/5 Goodreads · 436 ratings

$24.99Save 5%

Summary: Embark on a year-long adventure with 52 enchanting stories from around the globe. Each tale, from Chinese New Year to Kwanzaa, aligns with international celebrations and festivals. Discover myths, legends, and fairy tales that bring cultural traditions to life. This collection, divided into monthly chapters, invites readers to explore diverse narratives and timeless wisdom. Perfect for families, educators, and story lovers, this anthology promises to captivate and inspire throughout the year. What mysteries and lessons will each story reveal as the seasons change?

Sale price

$1597

Picture Book · Ages 6–8 · 2019

Nian, the Chinese New Year Dragon

By Virginia Loh-Hagan, Timothy Banks

A girl must defeat a dragon in 15 days to save her village.

32 pages· 986 words· Est. 8 min read-aloud

4.1/5 Goodreads · 295 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Summary: Mei dreads spring, for it brings the fearsome dragon Nian from his underwater prison to terrorize her village. This year, a dream reveals her destiny: she must defeat Nian within 15 days, or he will be free forever. As the clock ticks, Mei faces a daunting challenge that could change her village's fate and uncover the origins of Chinese New Year traditions. Can she rise to the occasion and save her people, or will Nian's reign of terror continue?

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Folktale Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about folktale for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Sale price

$1699

Quill Soup

Ages 3–7 · 2019

A porcupine's quill soup recipe unites a village. Will it satisfy everyone?

Sale price

$1699

The Blue Bird's Palace

Ages 5–8 · 2011

A selfish wish traps Natasha in a lonely palace. Can she escape?

Sale price

$1699

Five Sisters

Ages 3–8 · 2020

Magic dolls bring unexpected joy to an elderly couple's life.

Sale price

$1799

The Great Race

Ages 3–6 · 2018

Who wins the Great Race and why does Cat hold a grudge against Rat?

Sale price

$395

Clever Tom and the Leprechaun

Ages 5–9 · 1988

A leprechaun's gold promises fortune, but cleverness may outwit greed.

Sale price

$799

A Fine St. Patrick's Day

Ages 3–7 · 2004

A mysterious stranger disrupts a fierce St. Patrick's Day contest between rival towns.

Sale price

$1899

Doña Esmeralda, Who Ate Everything

Ages 4–8 · 2022

A hungry lady devours leftovers until she discovers children's tasty treats.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$695

Hi'iaka and Pana'ewa

Ages 4–8 · 2022

A brave hero battles a monstrous lizard to protect Hawaii's forests.

Sale price

$999

The Gingerbread Man

Ages 4–7 · 2018

A gingerbread man races to escape capture, but a cunning fox awaits.

Sale price

$1799

Fairy Tales for Little Folks

Ages 3–7 · 2015

Rediscover classic fairy tales with enchanting illustrations that captivate and charm.

Sale price

$799

Once a Mouse...

Ages 4–8 · 1961

A mouse transformed into a tiger faces the peril of pride and forgotten origins.

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Browse by age

Folktale Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about folktale for developing and independent readers.

Sale price

$1499

Filipino Children's Favorite Stories

Ages 5–10 · 2000

Discover timeless Filipino tales where cleverness and courage triumph over adversity.

Sale price

$745

Fin M'Coul

Ages 4–8 · 1981

A giant faces a clever challenge on Knockmany Hill.

Sale price

$2299

A World Full of Spooky Stories

Ages 8–12 · 2019

Discover eerie tales from around the world in this spine-chilling anthology perfect for Halloween nights.

Sale price

$2295

Celtic Tales

2016

Embark on perilous quests and discover magical creatures in Celtic folklore.

Sale price

$599

Ghosts!

Ages 4–8 · 1991

Ghostly tales blend chills and laughter. Can you handle the spooks?

Sale price

$2499

Folktales for Fearless Girls

Ages 8–12 · 2019

Fearless heroines defy odds and outsmart foes in global folktales.

Sale price

$999

Tales from Silver Lands

Ages 7–11 · 1924

Discover enchanting South American folktales of magic, animals, and moral lessons.

Sale price

$2499

Treasury of Magical Tales

Ages 8–12 · 2021

Discover global tales of magic, adventure, and clever heroes in a captivating anthology.

Sale price

$1999

Folk Stories and Tall Tales

Ages 7–10 · 2024

Discover timeless tales that weave the rich tapestry of North America's diverse heritage.

Sale price

$1999

Epic Myths for Fearless Girls

Ages 7–12 · 2022

Discover myths of fearless heroines who defy odds and inspire strength.

Sale price

$1099

The Frog Prince

Ages 6–8 · 2023

Can a frog's quest for love reveal truths about fairy tales and reality?

Sale price

$2000

Classic Storybook Fables

Ages 4–8 · 2017

Rediscover classic tales with enchanting illustrations and timeless lessons.

View all folktale chapter books

Our 10 Favorite Books About Folktale

Great books, picked for their age.

Folktale Picture Books

Folktale Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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