“Croatian Tales of Long Ago” by Ivana Brlic-Mazuranic is a captivating collection that melds traditional Slavic folklore with lyrical prose, reminiscent of the works of Hans Christian Andersen. Through enchanting narratives, Brlic-Mazuranic transports readers to a rich tapestry of Croatian culture and mythology, where the boundaries between the mundane and the magical blur. Her intricate storytelling captivates both children and adults, serving as a vital cultural repository that illuminates the moral and ethical underpinnings of the society from which these tales originate. Ivana Brlic-Mazuranic, a prominent Croatian writer, is celebrated for her ability to synthesize personal experience with national heritage. Born into a family steeped in literature and the arts, her exposure to the rich oral traditions of her homeland profoundly influenced her storytelling style. The socio-political landscape of early 20th-century Croatia, marked by a burgeoning national identity, led her to embark on this literary journey that reinforces cultural pride and collective memory. This collection is a must-read for all who appreciate folklore and its role in shaping cultural identities. Brlic-Mazuranic's imaginative tales not only entertain but also imbue the reader with a sense of belonging to a larger narrative of human experience. Each story offers a new layer of understanding, rendering it an invaluable addition to both children's literature and the broader canon of world folklore.
