Traditional stories have been told aloud for hundreds of years. Even though they aren’t meant to be taken literally, they stay with us because they share timeless truths about what it means to be human.

This book gathers fifty folktales and parables from many different cultures—Sufi, Zen, Taoist, Buddhist, Jewish, Christian, African, and Native American. Even though these stories come from far‑away places and different times, they all share simple truths, gentle humor, and the idea that we can learn from the wisdom of people who lived long ago.

Feathers: A Jewish Tale from Eastern Europe is a beautifully illustrated children's picture book that teaches a timeless lesson about the dangers of gossip.

When two hungry travelers use a "magic" stone to start a soup, they inspire a stingy village to come together and contribute their own ingredients.

The Woman Who Flummoxed the Fairies is a charming Scottish folktale about a clever baker woman who is kidnapped by cake-loving fairies.

This funny and rhythmic story teaches kids that a change in perspective can make any home feel perfect. It is an ideal read-aloud book for teaching gratitude and the value of a happy, bustling household.