Forget everything you know about polished, modern fairy tales. 'Tales from the Fjeld' is the real deal—raw, lively stories collected straight from the people who told them. Peter Christen Asbjørnsen traveled around Norway in the 1800s, writing down the oral traditions that were the Netflix of their day. This 'Second Series' is another wonderful batch of those stories.

The Story

There isn't one plot. Instead, you get a parade of short, vibrant adventures. A typical tale might start with a youngest son, considered foolish, who heads into the forest. He'll meet a fox that talks, or stumble upon a troll's castle. Through a mix of kindness, quick thinking, and a little magic, he solves an impossible problem, wins a princess, and proves everyone wrong. The stories are simple in structure but rich in detail—you can almost smell the pine trees and hear the crackle of the fire. They're about the underdog winning, the value of a promise, and the idea that brains often beat brute strength.

Why You Should Read It

I love this book because it feels authentic. These aren't sanitized versions. The humor is dry, the lessons are practical, and the magic feels like a natural part of the rugged landscape. The characters, even the magical ones, have real personality. The trolls aren't just monsters; they're often grumpy, greedy, and surprisingly easy to trick. Reading it, you get a sense of the Norwegian character—resilient, witty, and deeply connected to nature. It's also a fascinating look at the roots of storytelling. You can see how these tales shaped later fantasy writers.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for anyone who loves folklore, mythology, or classic fantasy. It's a great pick for readers who enjoy Neil Gaiman's Norse Mythology or the original Grimm tales, but want to explore a different cultural vein. It's also fantastic for reading aloud—the stories have a natural rhythm. If you want a book that's both a cozy escape and a piece of cultural history, pull up a chair and dive into the fjeld.