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Originally published in 1972, D’Aulaires’ Book of Trolls is a 64-page children’s book written and illustrated by husband and wife team Ingri and Edgar Parin d’Aulaire. It presents a collection of traditional Scandinavian folktales about trolls, magical creatures often depicted as giant, mischievous beings living in the mountains and forests. D’Aulaires’ Book of Trolls introduces readers to a diverse cast of magical beings and offers a glimpse into their intriguing world of myth and adventure. The book’s lively illustrations and engaging storytelling bring these fantastical creatures to life.
“But we do know that every time a troll burst, the splinter in his eye was scattered far and wide. Maybe that is why there are people everywhere today who see things askew. What is bad looks good to them and what is wrong looks right. They do not know that they have troll-splinters in their eyes and you cannot see them. But you can be very sure that the troll-splinters are there.”
D’Aulaires’ Book of Trolls
What will you find in D’Aulaires’ Book of Trolls?
General Introduction to Trolls
The book begins with an introduction to trolls, providing a brief overview of their characteristics and the role they play in Scandinavian folklore. It explains that trolls are beings of different sizes and appearances, capable of both kindness and malevolence.
Assorted Troll Tales
The majority of the book consists of a series of delightful and captivating troll stories. Each story presents a different troll or a group of trolls and their interactions with humans or other mythical creatures. The tales dovetail from one into the other, without headings to divide the different stories.
Troll Personalities
The book portrays trolls with a range of personalities. Some trolls are wise, kind, and helpful, while others are mischievous and prone to causing trouble for humans. The authors explore the complexity and diversity of troll characters. My children’s favorite tale was about the hulder-maidens, a generally benevolent variety of trolls who appear as beautiful maidens with cowtails.
Interactions with Humans
The stories often involve encounters between trolls and humans, where the two worlds collide. Some humans are tricked by trolls, while others manage to outwit the creatures, leading to humorous or adventurous outcomes.
Troll Origins
The book delves into the origins of trolls, including various myths and explanations for their existence. It explores how trolls are born and how they interact with their surroundings.
Troll Society
Readers get a glimpse into the society of trolls, their habits, and customs. The book portrays how trolls live, their dwellings in caves or mountains, and their interactions with other mythical creatures.
Magical Elements
Throughout the book, there are magical elements woven into the tales. Trolls possess supernatural powers, and their stories often involve enchantments, transformations, or the use of magical objects.
Moral Lessons
Some of the troll stories carry moral lessons, teaching children about kindness, honesty, and the consequences of deceitful behavior. The tales serve as cautionary fables, encouraging virtue and good character.
Cultural Significance
D’Aulaires’ Book of Trolls highlights the significance of trolls in Scandinavian culture and their enduring presence in the region’s folklore. The book serves as a gateway to understanding the rich mythical heritage of Scandinavia.
Illustrations
The book is beautifully illustrated with the d’Aulaires’ distinctive artwork, adding charm and visual appeal to the stories. The illustrations help bring the trolls and their magical world to life, making the book even more engaging for young readers. Some illustrations are in full color while others are in black and white.
A Family Heirloom
The quality of this hardback volume, the contents of the tales, and the beauty of the illustrations makes this book one that my family will cherish and keep around long after my kids are grown up. I hope one day we can pass this book on to be cherished by future generations.
Our Opinion
We have read D’Aulaires’ Book of Trolls to our children multiple times and they listen with rapt attention each time. I was not familiar with Scandinavian troll folklore so the book was also a nice change of pace from the well-trod path of the fairy tales we usually read. Through skillful storytelling and stunning illustrations, the book captures the imagination of everyone from young children to adults. I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in mythology and fairy tales and to parents seeking an excellent nighttime read for children.
Pick up your copy of D’Aulaires’ Book of Trolls at the link below.
To purchase other books by Ingri and Edgar Parin D’Aulaire, visit Beautiful Feet Books at the link below.
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