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Cover of The Green Man: Tales from the Mythic Forest (Mythic Anthologies)

The Green Man: Tales from the Mythic Forest (Mythic Anthologies)

Ellen Datlow ()

SubgenreFairy Tale Retelling
Age groupYA 12-17
Content ratingPG
Pages (Standard (250-400))
Setting
CSM age13

Content levels

ViolenceMild
Sexual contentNone
LanguageNone

Trigger warnings

Not yet tagged

Synopsis

Drawing on the mythology of the Green Man and the power of nature, Neil Gaiman, Jane Yolen, and others serve up "a tasty treat for fantasy fans" ( Booklist ). There are some "genuine gems" in this "enticing collection" of fifteen stories and three poems, all featuring "diverse takes on mythical beings associated with the protection of the natural world," most involving a teen's coming-of-age. Delia Sherman "takes readers into New York City's Central Park, where a teenager wins the favor of the park's Green Queen." Michael Cadnum offers a "dynamic retelling of the Daphne story." Charles de Lint presents an "eerie, heartwarming story in which a teenager resists the lure" of the faerie world. Tanith Lee roots her tale in "the myth of Dionysus, a god of the Wild Wood." Patricia A. McKillip steeps her story in "the legend of Herne, guardian of the forest. Magic realism flavors Katherine Vaz's haunting story. Gregory Maguire takes on Jack and the Beanstalk, and Emma Bull looks to an unusual Green Man—a Joshua tree in the desert" ( Booklist ). These enduring works of eco-fantasy by some of the genre's most popular authors impart "a real sense of how powerful nature can be in its various guises" ( School Library Journal ). "A treasure trove for teens and teachers exploring themes of ecology and folklore." — Kirkus Reviews "The stories are well-written and manage to speak to both the intellect and the emotions." —SF Site

Is The Green Man: Tales from the Mythic Forest (Mythic Anthologies) appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 13 and up.

This anthology features nature-focused fantasy stories with teen protagonists encountering mythical guardians of the natural world. Content is age-appropriate with mild fantasy peril and eco-conscious themes.

What to know going in

This book has mild violence, no sexual content, and clean language.

Who'll love this

Teens will enjoy diverse retellings of nature myths and legends featuring characters their age who discover magic in forests, parks, and wild places.

Tags

Eco-FantasyMythology RetellingAnthologyMagic RealismShort Story Collection