In Cornish Folk Tales of Place, folklore writer Anna Chorlton sets traditional tales deep within the Cornish landscape. With its rugged coast, the county is etched with stories, from tales of powerful mermaids and spiteful witches to stories featuring crafty smugglers and woeful ghosts. Published by the History Press, this collection is packed with retellings of tales of North and East Cornwall, alongside illustrations by local artists and members of the community.
What I thought of the book
Situated in the far south west of England, Cornwall is almost a land apart, so it’s little wonder that folklore is so interwoven in the county’s past, and present, too. In fact, this rich and fascinating collection only covers one area of Cornwall – the north and east – which shows just how much folklore abounds in the county.
As I turned the pages, it was clear how much research Anna had put in to produce Cornish Folk Tales of Place. Her knowledge and passion for her subject shine out of every chapter.
If you’ve ever visited Cornwall, I defy you to not be bewitched by its scenery and atmosphere, and with this book I’ve learned more about this enchanting corner of Britain.
Each chapter focuses on a different area, from the picturesque village of Polperro to the fishing port of Padstow, and each one begins with an old Cornish saying. Anna also includes introductions about these towns, villages etc. to provide insight into their history and the lives of their inhabitants.
When it comes to the tales, I especially enjoyed those with a spooky theme, such as ‘The Spectral Coach’ and ‘A Ghostly Feast at Bethany’.
You’ll also find a wealth of curious characters, including piskeys (who pop up frequently), mermaids and witches, while Anna’s use of language will transport you to another world; one where magic flourishes. And, like with any collection of stories, this book is ideal for dipping in and out of – you don’t have to read it all in one go!
In writing Cornish Folk Tales of Place, Anna acknowledges and pays tribute to the work of the droll tellers and folk tale collectors who have helped to keep the stories alive through the years. The book also celebrates the art of storytelling, which, if I’m not mistaken, is experiencing something of a resurgence.
By being captivated by folk stories, we’re not yearning for a rose-tinted yesteryear, but rather exploring what makes us who we are today and discovering what influenced the lives of our ancestors.
Folklore and storytelling have the power to bring us all together, to entertain young and old, and provide a glimpse into the past – warts and all!
How much is the book and how can you buy it?
The paperback is £12 and the eBook is priced from £4.31. You can buy a copy here.
About the author
As a child Anna Chorlton lived both by the Cornish coast and on the county’s moors. After teenage exile riding ponies on Dartmoor and reading English at Bath Spa University, she returned to live on the edge of Bodmin Moor with her husband, young daughter and surfing son. Anna writes for Mazed Tales, a project to retell the tales of East Cornwall, and she is also a member of Liskeard Poetry Group.
About the book
Title: Cornish Folk Tales of Place
Publisher: The History Press
ISBN: 978-0750987578
Pages: 192
Review by: Colette Warbrook
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*We were given a copy of the book in return for a feature. All opinions are our own.
20 comments
Although it’s not a book I would pick up it does seem like a good read. The way you describe the setting of the book makes me want to read it though.
Yes folklore is not for everyone but this is a fab book, Anna is a fabulous author and I enjoyed reading the book
This sounds like a fun summer read. I’m not familiar with Cornwall, but it sounds like the author has some great stories about it.
Yes she did, it was fabulous as we took the book with us to Cornwall for our holiday
Oh I wish I had more time to read. I love books like this one!
Do take the time to read, it is so relaxing and so much fun to read folktales
Sounds like a great read. I never heard of Cornwall, but I’m always willing to learn about great stories.
Cornwall is located in the South of England and it is a stunning place to go to for holidays.
This sounds like a wonderful book. Love reading and learning about different stories.
It sure is, yes it is nice to read about different topics as you may find that you enjoy it
This is great folklore and I always like such storyline and can be told to generations. Very well write up and!
Thank you and glad you enjoyed reading our review of it
Thanks for sharing! I have not had time to read and wish I could read more. Thanks for the book recommendation
It is so important to read, I do allocate at least half an hour before bedtime to do some reading as I switch off my screen time then
This sounds like a great light read. I’ll definitely add it to my reading list and I’m guessing it will be a good addition for gifts this holiday season too.
Absolutely, it would be any folktale reader’s dream to have this in their collection
Sounds like a great read to check out and one I’m looking forward to learning more about!
It is a wonderful read Catherine!
Thanks for the detailed review. Am sure my 7 year old niece will really enjoy Cornish Folk Tales.
You could read it to her, some of the stories are quite interesting if she is into folk tales