Stories of the Border Marches By: Jeanie Lang
Stories of the Border Marches by Jeanie Lang is a captivating collection of traditional folktales and legends set in the ancient Border Marches region of England and Scotland. Through her vivid storytelling and rich descriptions, Lang transports readers to a world where adventure, bravery, and magic coexist. The book opens with an introduction that provides valuable historical context, giving readers a glimpse into the turbulent history of the Border Marches. These borderlands, marked by constant feuds and conflicts, have shaped the lives and stories of the people who inhabit them. Lang’s meticulous research is evident throughout the book, as she seamlessly weaves historical facts and cultural details into each tale. The stories themselves are a delightful mix of mystical creatures, heroic quests, and timeless moral lessons. Lang’s ability to create memorable characters is commendable. Whether it's a formidable knight, a mischievous sprite, or a wise old woman, each character comes to life on the pages, making it easy for readers to form an emotional connection and invest in their journeys. One of the standout features of this collection is the author’s skillful use of language. Lang’s prose is lyrical and poetic, mirroring the enchanting atmosphere of the tales. In this age of fast-paced storytelling, the leisurely pace of the book may not appeal to readers seeking instant gratification. However, for those who appreciate a slower, more introspective reading experience, Stories of the Border Marches offers a refreshing respite. While some stories in the collection are lighthearted and whimsical, others touch on deeper themes such as sacrifice, loyalty, and the consequences of one's actions. Lang’s ability to convey profound messages without being preachy or didactic is truly impressive. The stories are open to interpretation, allowing readers to draw their own lessons and insights from the narratives. Furthermore, the inclusion of traditional borders ballads at the end of each tale adds an extra layer of authenticity and richness to the book. Lang’s attention to detail is evident in these songs, which provide a glimpse into the musical traditions of the region. The combination of storytelling and song creates a multisensory experience that sets this collection apart from others in its genre. Overall, Stories of the Border Marches is a delightful read for both children and adults who enjoy immersing themselves in the world of folklore and legends. Jeanie Lang’s masterful storytelling, coupled with her deep understanding of the Border Marches region, makes this book a treasure trove of enchantment and wisdom. Whether you're seeking adventure, magic, or simply a beautifully written collection of stories, this book is sure to transport you to the borderlands and leave you longing for more. First Page: STORIES OF THE BORDER MARCHES [Illustration] BY JOHN LANG AND JEAN LANG LONDON: T.C. & E.C. JACK LTD. 67 LONG ACRE, W.C., AND EDINBURGH 1916 PREFACE The quotation that speaks of "Old, unhappy, far off things, and battles long ago," has grown now to be hackneyed. Yet, are not they those "old, unhappy, far off things" that lure us back from a very commonplace and utilitarian present, and cause us to cling to the romance of stories that are well nigh forgotten? In these days of rushing railway journeys, of motor cars, telegrams, telephones, and aeroplanes, we are apt to lose sight of the tales of more leisurely times, when lumbering stage coaches and relays of willing horses were our only means of transit from one kingdom to the other. Because the "long ago" means to us so infinitely valuable a possession, we have striven to preserve in print a few of the stories that still remain flotsam and jetsam saved from the cruel rush of an overwhelming tide. One or two of the tales in this volume are perhaps not quite so familiar as is the average Border story, and some may contain less of violence and of bloodshed than is common. Yet it must be owned that it is no easy task to divorce the Border from its wedded mate, violence. JOHN LANG. JEAN LANG. CONTENTS THE... Continue reading book >>

Stories of the Border Marches By: Jeanie Lang

Stories of the Border Marches by Jeanie Lang is a captivating collection of traditional folktales and legends set in the ancient Border Marches region of England and Scotland. Through her vivid storytelling and rich descriptions, Lang transports readers to a world where adventure, bravery, and magic coexist.

The book opens with an introduction that provides valuable historical context, giving readers a glimpse into the turbulent history of the Border Marches. These borderlands, marked by constant feuds and conflicts, have shaped the lives and stories of the people who inhabit them. Lang’s meticulous research is evident throughout the book, as she seamlessly weaves historical facts and cultural details into each tale.

The stories themselves are a delightful mix of mystical creatures, heroic quests, and timeless moral lessons. Lang’s ability to create memorable characters is commendable. Whether it's a formidable knight, a mischievous sprite, or a wise old woman, each character comes to life on the pages, making it easy for readers to form an emotional connection and invest in their journeys.

One of the standout features of this collection is the author’s skillful use of language. Lang’s prose is lyrical and poetic, mirroring the enchanting atmosphere of the tales. In this age of fast-paced storytelling, the leisurely pace of the book may not appeal to readers seeking instant gratification. However, for those who appreciate a slower, more introspective reading experience, Stories of the Border Marches offers a refreshing respite.

While some stories in the collection are lighthearted and whimsical, others touch on deeper themes such as sacrifice, loyalty, and the consequences of one's actions. Lang’s ability to convey profound messages without being preachy or didactic is truly impressive. The stories are open to interpretation, allowing readers to draw their own lessons and insights from the narratives.

Furthermore, the inclusion of traditional borders ballads at the end of each tale adds an extra layer of authenticity and richness to the book. Lang’s attention to detail is evident in these songs, which provide a glimpse into the musical traditions of the region. The combination of storytelling and song creates a multisensory experience that sets this collection apart from others in its genre.

Overall, Stories of the Border Marches is a delightful read for both children and adults who enjoy immersing themselves in the world of folklore and legends. Jeanie Lang’s masterful storytelling, coupled with her deep understanding of the Border Marches region, makes this book a treasure trove of enchantment and wisdom. Whether you're seeking adventure, magic, or simply a beautifully written collection of stories, this book is sure to transport you to the borderlands and leave you longing for more.

First Page:

STORIES OF THE BORDER MARCHES

[Illustration]

BY JOHN LANG AND JEAN LANG

LONDON: T.C. & E.C. JACK LTD. 67 LONG ACRE, W.C., AND EDINBURGH

1916

PREFACE

The quotation that speaks of "Old, unhappy, far off things, and battles long ago," has grown now to be hackneyed. Yet, are not they those "old, unhappy, far off things" that lure us back from a very commonplace and utilitarian present, and cause us to cling to the romance of stories that are well nigh forgotten?

In these days of rushing railway journeys, of motor cars, telegrams, telephones, and aeroplanes, we are apt to lose sight of the tales of more leisurely times, when lumbering stage coaches and relays of willing horses were our only means of transit from one kingdom to the other.

Because the "long ago" means to us so infinitely valuable a possession, we have striven to preserve in print a few of the stories that still remain flotsam and jetsam saved from the cruel rush of an overwhelming tide.

One or two of the tales in this volume are perhaps not quite so familiar as is the average Border story, and some may contain less of violence and of bloodshed than is common. Yet it must be owned that it is no easy task to divorce the Border from its wedded mate, violence.

JOHN LANG. JEAN LANG.

CONTENTS

THE... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature

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Wikipedia – Stories of the Border Marches

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