Published by Firefly Press, 2023.

Strange Tales is a collection of nine short stories; some are grisly and macabre, others mysterious and unsettling. With their sinister settings and unexplained goings on, these twisted tales will really appeal to those children who are eager for a spooky story.

These stories are perfect for reading aloud. They draw on the oral story-telling traditions of myth and fairy tale by incorporating refrains and repetitive story structures. They’re also short enough to read in one sitting so they’re ideal for sharing in class or at bedtime (if you dare!).

I enjoyed the variety of tales and how the stories were rooted in myth and folklore. The stories are populated by a range of wonderful characters from royalty to pauper and everyone in between. There are animals that speak, witches, and even the devil’s granny herself. There’s a wild late-night party where the guests are corpses, a haunted house, and, unnervingly, invisible beings who move among us. There’s magic, and mystery. I especially enjoyed how different stories explored the themes of fate, luck and fortune.

The ninth and final tale, The Boy Who Kept a Secret, considers how everything happens for a reason and explores how what seems like bad luck at the time may actually be a crucial part of your destiny. I enjoyed the riddles in this tale too.

I know this is a book that will be snapped up by the children in my class. As the winter evenings draw in, it’s time to gather round for some strange and unnerving tales…

Rating: 💙💙💙💙

Suitable for children aged 10+

Thank you to Firefly Press for sending me this book to review.