Samuel DenHartog's Blog: The Road to 1,440 - Posts Tagged "asia"

Hello, lovers of mythology and ancient traditions!

I am honored to announce the release of my latest book, "Tales from the Korean Peninsula," a mesmerizing journey into the heart of Korean mythology. This collection unveils the enchanting world of ancient Korea, where gods, spirits, and legendary heroes come alive, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the Korean Peninsula.

Within these pages, you will encounter the mischievous Dokkaebi, goblins known for their tricks and pranks, and the majestic mountain spirits who guard the serene landscapes of Korea. From the wise and noble Gumiho, the nine-tailed fox, to the valiant warriors and divine beings, each story illuminates Korean mythology's intricate and captivating world. These tales offer a window into the beliefs and traditions that have shaped Korean society for centuries.

I invite you to immerse yourself in these legendary tales that have inspired countless generations and continue to enchant readers today.

Warm regards,
Samuel DenHartog

I am pleased to announce the release of my latest book, "Fables from Japan." This collection of timeless tales will transport you to the heart of Japanese folklore, where the extraordinary comes to life. Each story within this anthology is a gateway to a world filled with mythical creatures, heroic adventures, and profound wisdom.

Dive into mystical tales like The Mirror of the Sun Goddess, in which the radiant Amaterasu emerges from her cave, bringing light back to the world. Feel the thrill of The Sworded Falcon's daring escapades and enjoy the whimsy of The Laughing Dumpling as it comes to life in a delightful dance. Each fable is carefully selected to glimpse the rich tapestry of Japanese culture and tradition.

Perfect for readers of all ages, these stories are entertaining and imbued with lessons of bravery, kindness, and cleverness. They remind us of the enduring power of storytelling and the universal themes that connect us all. I invite you to explore this collection and experience the magic and wonder of these timeless Japanese tales.

Cheers,
Samuel DenHartog

I'm excited to share with you my latest work, “Fables from China”, a collection that brings to life the rich tapestry of Chinese folklore. These tales have been carefully retold in modern language, adding fresh details and dialogue to make them more engaging for today's readers. One of the most intriguing stories in the collection is about a strong young man who must confront three evils, proving that bravery and sacrifice can overcome even the darkest of threats. This tale, like many others in the book, reflects the deep-rooted belief in the power of human ingenuity and the triumph of good over evil.

Another fascinating story features a mysterious spirit that guards a sacred mountain, its presence a testament to the reverence for nature and the spiritual forces believed to inhabit it. The spirit's protective actions remind us of the connection between the natural world and the supernatural, a theme throughout many tales. The collection also includes an account of a ghost who meets her match in a resourceful human. We also learn of the Eight Immortals, each with unique powers and personalities, representing different aspects of human existence.

While ancient in origin, these stories offer timeless lessons that resonate even today. From the trials of a hero with divine ancestry to the transformative power of a woman’s words, these stories invite readers to explore the wisdom, humor, and wonder embedded in these age-old narratives. Each tale is a piece of cultural heritage, preserved and reimagined for a new generation to enjoy and learn from.

As I prepared to write "Fables from Korea," I was drawn to the enchanting world of Korean fairy tales, where the mundane and the magical are intricately intertwined. Each tale offers a different window into this captivating realm — from the mischievous sprite who delights in pranks yet reveals unexpected moments of kindness, to the brave woodcutter who finds himself caught between earthly love and the call of the heavens. The stories are rich with lessons, whether they come from creatures as mysterious as the Tokgabi or from simple village folk who navigate life's joys and sorrows with wit and courage.

What struck me most was the deep humanity present in each story. Even in tales filled with supernatural elements, like that of the mighty tiger tricked by his own reflection or the dragon kings of the sea searching for cures in unexpected places, there are always elements of the human condition that shine through — themes of love, loss, cleverness, and the eternal struggle to do what is right. I have taken great care in crafting these stories to retain their original charm while adding modern details and descriptions that make them accessible to readers today.

In writing these tales, I’ve also aimed to highlight the vibrancy of Korean culture. The fables explore not just the fantastical elements but also the everyday life of the people who passed down these stories over generations. Whether it’s the story of a humble frog trying to honor his mother’s wishes or the dramatic journey of a young archer crossing rivers on the backs of fish, there’s a sense of place and heritage that brings each tale to life. The landscape itself often plays a vital role, whether it’s a majestic mountain, a hidden river, or a cozy village kitchen bustling with life.

I hope that these retellings bring readers as much joy and wonder as they have brought me in the process of writing them. "Fables from Korea" is an invitation to experience a rich tapestry of folklore that has shaped the imagination of Korean people for centuries. Whether you're new to these tales or revisiting them with fresh eyes, I trust you'll find them both entertaining and thought-provoking, a celebration of storytelling that transcends time and place.

As I delved deeper into the folklore of the Philippines, I found myself captivated by the richness and variety of stories passed down through generations. These fables are a window into the values, beliefs, and traditions that have shaped Filipino culture for centuries. From the mystical beauty of diwatas (fairies or spirits) living in the forests and seas to the heartwarming tales of how animals earned their place in the natural world, each story brings with it a sense of wonder.

What I love about these fables is how they beautifully illustrate the connection between humans, nature, and the supernatural. One tale speaks of a fisherman who, in his panic, mistakenly believes he's captured a divine figure in his net. Another recounts a clever hero outwitting a monstrous Komow by sheer wit, while a lizard and turtle’s mischievous adventures offer humor. Then there’s the tale of a forest maiden transforming into birds, helping harvest rice. Each story teaches us that courage and kindness triumph over the greatest adversities, even the mythical ones.

As you immerse yourself in these stories, you’ll find yourself exploring faraway lands filled with magical beings and heroic deeds. Each fable, whether it’s about the origin of a majestic mountain or a clever trickster spirit, reflects a unique aspect of Filipino life and culture. I am excited to share this collection with you and hope it ignites your imagination just as much as it did mine!