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The Folk Tales of Scotland: The Well at the World's End and Other Stories
The classic folk tales of Scotland were passed down from storyteller to storyteller, and from the first sentence they were designed to hold the attention of the listener or reader as though a spell had been cast over them, transporting them to a magical realm where mermaids and men, selkies and sailors, ogres and princesses mingle and are miraculously transformed.
The Montgomeries, distinguished folklorists, gathered traditional stories from all parts of Scotland. Their collection, first published in 1956, became a classic of the storytelling tradition, with the stories retold in a simple, dramatic style, appealing to adult and child alike. Now republished by Birlinn Ltd in a handsome gift edition and illustrated with Norah Montgomerie's own original drawings, it is a book to be treasured for years as the key to an enchanted, timeless world.
257 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1956
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
March 7, 2016
I FINALLY finished this!! This was a nice collection of folk tales. I loved how their was a glossary for some of the Scots words the reader may not understand. But I've come to the realization that thought I love, in general, fairy tale retellings and themes, I don't get much enjoyment when reading original fairy tales, Hans Christian Andersen excluded. I'm glad I actually read this collection, though, and it was a lovely souvenir of Scotland.
January 13, 2021
Once there was a lad who didn't do what he was told. He got into a drinking contest with Finn McCool, who I always thought was Irish, but what do I know, passed out and Finn stole his money. When he woke up there was a pretty girl watching him. She asked him why he was crying. He told her. She said she was the king's daughter and if he would slay the evil dog who was terrorizing the village she would marry him.
Six falcons, a witch, a purse of gold and a giant toad later, the lad and the king's daughter are married in the old tower and live happily for two weeks until another evil dog shows up.
Don't ask me. My ancestors were Jacobites and left Scotland and settled in Belgium hundreds of years ago.
Six falcons, a witch, a purse of gold and a giant toad later, the lad and the king's daughter are married in the old tower and live happily for two weeks until another evil dog shows up.
Don't ask me. My ancestors were Jacobites and left Scotland and settled in Belgium hundreds of years ago.
April 24, 2020
I'm not going to read these to children any time soon, but I really enjoyed this! Minus all the blood and death and stuff.
October 25, 2025
That was not fun for me.
I was today years old when I learned that three dozen folk tales aren't meant to be read over the course of two days.
However, in defense of The Folk Tales of Scotland by Norah and William Montgomerie — I don’t believe that’s how the book is meant to be read. So this one’s on me.
Now, taking a step back and assessing it for what it is — this is essentially a collection of Scottish folk tales. The themes are predominantly the same: selfishness is punished, kindness is rewarded, and marriage is portrayed as the highest form of happiness across all the Scottish kingdoms.
A lot of the stories revolve around the kin of kings and queens — either on quests to rid themselves or their loved ones of some form of malevolence or inconvenience. Farm animals play a huge role in most of these stories — as do giants, fin-folk, and bannocks (sentient and non-sentient).
The tales were initially fun and refreshing to read in the early stages of the book — but as I progressed, everything began to feel the same. Moreover, as an adult, I now see how random, arbitrary events play a pivotal role in fairy tales.
(Oh, you’re cursed by a witch's spell? Well, eat a bannock and face westward for half a day whilst doing the Mambo No. 5. Congratulations — you’re freed of the curse!)
That’s not to say there weren’t any notable parables here. The more coherent ones, such as Pippety Pew and The Eagle and the Wren , have a clear message that is palatable to young and old alike. The rest are just a series of jumbled events with random outcomes.
To conclude, this is probably the kind of book you’d want to spread out over a year — or read to a child. If you do, there’s certainly some measure of fun to be derived, up to a certain point.
I was today years old when I learned that three dozen folk tales aren't meant to be read over the course of two days.
However, in defense of The Folk Tales of Scotland by Norah and William Montgomerie — I don’t believe that’s how the book is meant to be read. So this one’s on me.
Now, taking a step back and assessing it for what it is — this is essentially a collection of Scottish folk tales. The themes are predominantly the same: selfishness is punished, kindness is rewarded, and marriage is portrayed as the highest form of happiness across all the Scottish kingdoms.
A lot of the stories revolve around the kin of kings and queens — either on quests to rid themselves or their loved ones of some form of malevolence or inconvenience. Farm animals play a huge role in most of these stories — as do giants, fin-folk, and bannocks (sentient and non-sentient).
The tales were initially fun and refreshing to read in the early stages of the book — but as I progressed, everything began to feel the same. Moreover, as an adult, I now see how random, arbitrary events play a pivotal role in fairy tales.
(Oh, you’re cursed by a witch's spell? Well, eat a bannock and face westward for half a day whilst doing the Mambo No. 5. Congratulations — you’re freed of the curse!)
That’s not to say there weren’t any notable parables here. The more coherent ones, such as Pippety Pew and The Eagle and the Wren , have a clear message that is palatable to young and old alike. The rest are just a series of jumbled events with random outcomes.
To conclude, this is probably the kind of book you’d want to spread out over a year — or read to a child. If you do, there’s certainly some measure of fun to be derived, up to a certain point.
September 5, 2017
Review to come.
August 18, 2022
Great collection with beautiful illustrations. I've laughed out loud at a lot of these stories and I'd love to read them to my niece and nephew someday.
October 5, 2025
Take away: good things happen to pretty and pleasant people and bad things happen to ugly and nasty people.
August 17, 2019
A nice collection of stories! Reading then all after one another got a bit one-sided, but the retelling of the stories was super cosy and nice. Highly recommend!
December 3, 2018
Though this was a nice collection of stories, many of them were so random and illogical that I didn't enjoy it very much. Most just didn't make a lot of sense. It was nice to see that so many have a same narrative structure, and discover how these folktales differ from others I've read, but the repetition did become boring after a while. I'm not sure how these stories should be read and if I've missed a lot, not having background info others might have.
January 27, 2025
This was a pleasant collection of stories and myths. But it doesn’t make you think too deeply, and I’m not even sure that many of the stories have a point or make sense.
June 14, 2022
finn mccoul is kinda dumb, like helLO WHY WOULD YOU HIRE A STRANGER YOU MET ON THE ROAD. WHY WOULD YOU TRUST THAT PERSON. WHY WOULD YOU HIRE HIM FOR A YEAR AND A DAY WITHOUT A TRIAL OR A CONTRACT. WHY DON'T YOU KEEP YOUR FINGER UNDER YOUR WISDOM TOOTH, WHY DOES IT HAVE TO BE YOUR FINGER, WHY CAN'T YOU JUST KEEP YOUR TOUNGE THERE AND KNOw EVERYTHING ALL THE TIME??
Aside from that, i think the Montgomeries did a good job in making sure they wrote down the tales so the flow is good, and i did enjoy the scots glossary, though i would have enjoyed some nerdy footnotes and ethymology on the words mentioned.
conclusion is that scottish fairytales (and the fenian cycle) are a lot more feminist than norwegian ones, for starters, the princesses are nearly always the ones leading the way, and never ever is she given away to some rando along with half the kingdom
Aside from that, i think the Montgomeries did a good job in making sure they wrote down the tales so the flow is good, and i did enjoy the scots glossary, though i would have enjoyed some nerdy footnotes and ethymology on the words mentioned.
conclusion is that scottish fairytales (and the fenian cycle) are a lot more feminist than norwegian ones, for starters, the princesses are nearly always the ones leading the way, and never ever is she given away to some rando along with half the kingdom
December 22, 2019
This was an interesting collection of folk- and fairy-tales from across Scotland. Most of them are very short, only a few pages each, which hardly leaves any space for characterisation or plot development. There's a lot of repetition within stories as well - the power of three crops up again and again where the hero must do things three times to get the effect. I imagine this works better in the oral tradition than written down. There are also variations on well-known stories (including Cinderella and Rumpelstiltskin) and lots of very traditional roles (princess offered in marriage as a prize for the hero recurs often).
But it's interesting to read older versions of some of these traditional stories to see how they've evolved over time and where there are seeds for other stories. It's also nice (if somewhat surprising) to see several stories featuring Finn McCool, who's more closely associated with Irish mythology.
But it's interesting to read older versions of some of these traditional stories to see how they've evolved over time and where there are seeds for other stories. It's also nice (if somewhat surprising) to see several stories featuring Finn McCool, who's more closely associated with Irish mythology.
August 4, 2017
What an amazing collection of Scottish folktales. I love that the authors found oral sources for many of the stories, its really special to know that they stories have been told the same way for so many years and I'm sitting at my desk reading the same tales. I loved the magic of these stories and plan to purchase this book for my personal library, as I've checked this one out from the library. I highly recommend this book for all fans of fairy tales and folktales alike. I'm half Scottish so these stories mean even more to me as its part of my heritage.
September 15, 2017
A fascinating collection of tales, many recorded from oral tradition all around Scotland.
Like most folk tales, lots of these are very strange, and some have tragic endings, and there often is no "moral of the story" per se. But it is an interesting window to culture so often now lost.
Note: it's a good idea to read these in the order they are presented, because some rely on prior knowledge that is presented in earlier stories (especially the ones about Finn of the Feinne--you need the first story that explains about the wisdom tooth or you'll have no idea what's going on later!).
Like most folk tales, lots of these are very strange, and some have tragic endings, and there often is no "moral of the story" per se. But it is an interesting window to culture so often now lost.
Note: it's a good idea to read these in the order they are presented, because some rely on prior knowledge that is presented in earlier stories (especially the ones about Finn of the Feinne--you need the first story that explains about the wisdom tooth or you'll have no idea what's going on later!).
July 22, 2017
Picked this one up while in Scotland--made the perfect companion to afternoon tea in that beautiful landscape! I love that they tell you what region each tale comes from, and if you're traveling through different regions as I did, you can follow along and read each relevant tale wherever you go. There's something really magical about connecting the place with the history with the people in this way.
September 10, 2017
Bought this little cutie of a book in Edinburgh´s International Book Festival in 2017 because it´s cover caught my eye and because I think Scotland´s lore is one of the most intriguing ones out there.
All of the tales are brilliant! And like any original fairytales, quite dark and evil. My favourite bit of it all is that it always took everything "a year and a day". I guess that is how they measured time in the olden days in Scotland, lol.
All of the tales are brilliant! And like any original fairytales, quite dark and evil. My favourite bit of it all is that it always took everything "a year and a day". I guess that is how they measured time in the olden days in Scotland, lol.
November 9, 2018
What a beautiful book on the outside, and great tales on the inside. The binding and quality of this book are excellent also. I'm so glad this was reprinted, and so well too.
As for the tales, interesting and enjoyable for young and old alike. I like reading of folk tales, for myself and to the kids, because I think one can learn about human character and behavior through them, not to mention the beliefs of a culture.
Wonderful!
As for the tales, interesting and enjoyable for young and old alike. I like reading of folk tales, for myself and to the kids, because I think one can learn about human character and behavior through them, not to mention the beliefs of a culture.
Wonderful!
April 27, 2025
This has long been one of my favourite collections. I found it in an op shop when I was a kid and fell in love immediately, as it was a reminder of home. It’s falling apart now, and full of annotations from over the years, making it even more precious. Every time I return to it, I find myself swept away all over again by the familiar magic of these tales.
Plot: ★★★★★
I love all these stories! Each one carries the sense of timelessness that makes folk tales endure. They are fabulously crafted, often short but packed with meaning, humour, or quiet wisdom. It’s a wonderful blend of classic fairy tale structure and unique Scottish flair.
Character: ★★★★★
The characters in this collection are fantastic – bold heroes, clever tricksters, mysterious creatures, and even the occasional fool. They are simple but effective, fitting the traditional storytelling style while still feeling vivid and memorable.
Setting: ★★★★★
The settings are gorgeous. They feel misty and wild, full of mountains, forests, lochs, and ancient castles. There’s so much fantasy entwined with Scottish charm, and it truly feels like a beautiful, nostalgic taste of home. The sense of place lingers long after the story ends.
Engagement: ★★★★★
I find this collection incredibly engaging, even after all these years. Each story is short enough to devour in a sitting but rich enough that you want to linger over it. It's the kind of book where you promise yourself just one more story, and then you read three!
Readability: ★★★★★
This collection is very easy to read. The language is simple and accessible while still retaining the traditional cadence and flavour of Scottish storytelling. It's the sort of book that could easily be read aloud, making it perfect for sharing with younger readers or simply for enjoying the way the words roll off the tongue.
Enjoyment: ★★★★★
I have loved this collection for most of my life, and it still brings me just as much joy now as it did when I first discovered it. There’s a real warmth and magic to these tales. They capture the spirit of Scottish folklore so perfectly, and reading them feels like coming home.
‘The Folk Tales of Scotland: The Well at the World's End and Other Stories’ is an absolute treasure. It's a collection full of heart, magic, and the enduring power of oral storytelling. Whether you have ties to Scotland or simply a love for fairy tales and folklore, this book is a must-read. It’s one I’ll keep returning to forever.
Plot: ★★★★★
I love all these stories! Each one carries the sense of timelessness that makes folk tales endure. They are fabulously crafted, often short but packed with meaning, humour, or quiet wisdom. It’s a wonderful blend of classic fairy tale structure and unique Scottish flair.
Character: ★★★★★
The characters in this collection are fantastic – bold heroes, clever tricksters, mysterious creatures, and even the occasional fool. They are simple but effective, fitting the traditional storytelling style while still feeling vivid and memorable.
Setting: ★★★★★
The settings are gorgeous. They feel misty and wild, full of mountains, forests, lochs, and ancient castles. There’s so much fantasy entwined with Scottish charm, and it truly feels like a beautiful, nostalgic taste of home. The sense of place lingers long after the story ends.
Engagement: ★★★★★
I find this collection incredibly engaging, even after all these years. Each story is short enough to devour in a sitting but rich enough that you want to linger over it. It's the kind of book where you promise yourself just one more story, and then you read three!
Readability: ★★★★★
This collection is very easy to read. The language is simple and accessible while still retaining the traditional cadence and flavour of Scottish storytelling. It's the sort of book that could easily be read aloud, making it perfect for sharing with younger readers or simply for enjoying the way the words roll off the tongue.
Enjoyment: ★★★★★
I have loved this collection for most of my life, and it still brings me just as much joy now as it did when I first discovered it. There’s a real warmth and magic to these tales. They capture the spirit of Scottish folklore so perfectly, and reading them feels like coming home.
‘The Folk Tales of Scotland: The Well at the World's End and Other Stories’ is an absolute treasure. It's a collection full of heart, magic, and the enduring power of oral storytelling. Whether you have ties to Scotland or simply a love for fairy tales and folklore, this book is a must-read. It’s one I’ll keep returning to forever.
September 10, 2018
The stories collected here weren't adapted with much flair. Many of them become very similar and hard to distinguish, and they could do with a more modern adaptation - after all, it's a book first published in the 1950's. However, it's still enjoyable, and does a good job of compiling different folk tales from every corner of Scotland.
December 30, 2019
A quick read of collections of folk tales from Scotland. The stories are cute and most are kid friendly. What I found most interesting was the Scots-English glossary at the back of the book. Suggest you read this section first in order to answer the inevitable questions from your children regarding the numerous Scottish words.
November 1, 2021
THE FOLK TALES OF SCOTLAND: THE WELL AT THE WORLD'S END AND OTHER STORIES, compiled by William & Norah Montgomerie, was a truly delightful experience. It contains 54 tales from all over Scotland from a variety of sources, many oral. Enjoy these tales of men, ogres, farmers, fairies, mermaids, selkies, sailors, princesses, and many others.
June 25, 2023
I read this collection to my son while dawning the worst Scottish accent one could imagine. It's the only way to do it.
40+ stories of relatively short length. Repetitive in format. Yet, there was a breadth in creativity, happy endings, tragic endings, cruel endings, and more.
And their wedding lasted a year and a day
40+ stories of relatively short length. Repetitive in format. Yet, there was a breadth in creativity, happy endings, tragic endings, cruel endings, and more.
And their wedding lasted a year and a day
September 23, 2022
A beautifully presented book reminiscent of old Folk Tale books but the title is totally misleading. These are tales of Celtic, rather than Scottish, origin. Finn McCool was a character of Irish folklore yet he and his comrades are featured in many of these tales as if they were Scottish.
December 21, 2024
Una edición preciosa que me la compré en Edimburgo pero hay algunos cuentos que no me he enterado bien porque tenían palabras en escocés entonces pues eso.
Igualmente muy bonito con ilustraciones preciosas.
Igualmente muy bonito con ilustraciones preciosas.
June 15, 2025
Brought back this beautiful book from my Scottish trip, willing to immerse myself in their tails. One story at a time, extending the memories. One disclaimer: if English is not your first language, be prepared to search unknowns -and Scottish-like- words at each pages!!
January 21, 2018
Atmospheric, diverse and accessible.
September 26, 2018
Great little book, nice to pick up and read a short tale or two when you have a few minutes to spare.
July 17, 2020
An origin of Tolkien’s middle earth
An interesting read. A physical copy with easy access to the glossary would have been better than a digital edition.
An interesting read. A physical copy with easy access to the glossary would have been better than a digital edition.
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April 28, 2021I don't really want to rank this one... it's an interesting collection of folk tales that a dear friend brought back from Scotland for me and therefore brings a great memory.
November 1, 2022
Muy bien adaptado al inglés moderno, además incluye glosario. Muy curioso de leer, te deja entrever los entresijos de los folktales europeos.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews