Guest Author - Deanna Joseph

As much as I love folklore, my kids love it even more. Kids are so imaginative, they can really bring folklore to life. That’s why I was so excited when I discovered the following children’s books. These books, really more like guidebooks, or scrapbook journals, are so beautifully done, that when I bought them for my kids, I even bought one for myself!

The books are all hardcover (with no dust jackets to worry about crinkling), and large – measuring about 10 ½ inches wide by 12 ¼ inches tall and about 1 inch thick.

Pirateology – A Pirate Hunter’s Companion by Dugald Steer from Candlewick Press

With the recent pirate craze, “Pirateology” is the perfect gift for any child. In fact, any pirate fan (no matter what the age) would find this book very interesting.

”Pirateology” is the journal of one Captain William Lubber – a Pirate Hunter General. The journal spans 1722 – 1726 and contains notes, ship descriptions, maps and charts, information on pirate flags, weapons, and descriptions of the Captains travels throughout the high seas.



Dragonology – The Complete Book of Dragons by Dugald Steer from Candlewick Press

”Dragonology” is an alleged copy of a book by one Dr. Ernest Drake, originally printed in London in 1895.

The book offers beautiful pictures and descriptions of different kinds of dragons (of which there are many). There are fold out maps indicating locations where dragons have been seen, samples of dragon scales and dragon dust, a section on dragon anatomy and a chart of the life cycle of dragons (starting from in the wee dragon egg). There is even a brief explanation as to why dragons love to collect rare jewels! With a section on tracking and befriending dragons, and spells and charms, this book is a must have for anyone who desires to be a dragon hunter.



Wizardology – The Book of the Secrets of Merlin by Dugald Steer from Candlewick Press

It is said that Merlin, locked into an Oak Tree by the sorceress Vivienne, conjured this book so that the secrets of wizardry could once again be known in the world of men.

The book includes information on otherworldly beings, a fold-out map of wizards of the world, tools of the wizard, wands, spell crafting, familiars, magical creatures, amulets, talismans, astrological correspondences, divination and alchemy.



Fairyopolis – A Flower Fairies Journal by Cicely Mary Barker

Fairyopolis is the journal of Cicely Mary Barker kept in 1920. The journal is filled with information on fairies and fairy folklore. Included is a field guide to fairies, fold out maps, information on fairy trees, secrets of the fairy ring and even a sample of fairy dust.



All of these books have a very strong “scrap-booky” feel and are beautifully illustrated, filled with hand written notes, sketches, and fold-outs. I would highly recommend them for anyone who is a fan of folklore.