Christine Hrichak shares a book of little-known folktales.

Christine Hrichak
Published: September 23, 2024

Christine’s Note: In this recurring column I’ll share information about Carpatho-Rusyn books. Some will be books you might already be familiar with, and some you might not. Either way, we hope you enjoy these recommendations.

This month’s book feature is Dancing on Blades: Rare and Exquisite Folktales from the Carpathian Mountains by Csenge Virág Zalka.

From the introduction:

“ANICA, TELL US A STORY!”

Palyuk Anna and the world of Transcarpathian folktales

“Many of Palyuk Anna’s folktales are unique. Many do not belong to any internationally recognized type. She seems to have been a true artist of the oral tradition, taking symbols, motifs, and elements from fairy tales and re-assembling them into new stories.”

This book features retellings of Anna Palyuk’s oral folktales. Anna Palyuk was born in the village of Alsoveresmart near the Tisza River; today the village is called Mala Kopanya, Ukraine. Each folktale is retold by professional storyteller, Csenge Zalka. After each story, Csenge provides a little context, history, or information about what she kept or changed from the original. These folktales provide an interesting look into folklore, superstitions, etc. in Transcarpathia. 

Approximately $23 (Hardcover) or $12 (eBook) via Barnes & Noble or Amazon. You can also check your local library!

Christine Hrichak is a member of the Carpatho-Rusyn Society.