"East of the Sun and West of the Moon" is a collection of Nordic fairy tales compiled by Peter Christen Asbjørnsen. The stories are full of magical creatures, brave heroes, and clever heroines who navigate through various adventures and trials. Asbjørnsen's writing style is engaging and keeps the reader captivated from beginning to end.

One of the highlights of the book is the strong female characters who play central roles in the stories. These heroines defy traditional gender roles and showcase their intelligence, courage, and resourcefulness as they embark on quests to save their loved ones or themselves. The themes of love, loyalty, and perseverance are prevalent throughout the tales, making them both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The world-building in "East of the Sun and West of the Moon" is rich and vivid, transporting readers to a magical realm where anything is possible. From enchanted forests to mystical creatures, Asbjørnsen creates a world that is both enchanting and enthralling.

Overall, "East of the Sun and West of the Moon" is a delightful collection of fairy tales that will appeal to readers of all ages. With its captivating storytelling, memorable characters, and enchanting setting, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who ventures into its pages.

Book Description:
Once on a time there was a poor husbandman who had so many children that he hadn’t much of either food or clothing to give them. Pretty children they all were, but the prettiest was the youngest daughter, who was so lovely there was no end to her loveliness.
So one day, ’twas on a Thursday evening late at the fall of the year, the weather was so wild and rough outside, and it was so cruelly dark, and rain fell and wind blew, till the walls of the cottage shook again. There they all sat round the fire, busy with this thing and that. But just then, all at once something gave three taps on the window-pane. Then the father went out to see what was the matter; and, when he got out of doors, what should he see but a great big White Bear.
“Good-evening to you!” said the White Bear.
“The same to you!” said the man.
“Will you give me your youngest daughter? If you will, I’ll make you as rich as you are now poor,” said the Bear. (from the book)

This collection of old Scandinavian fairy tales will enchant you with stories of trolls, enchanted castles, princesses and a White Bear (summary by Nadine)