Book excerpt: Discover Ukraine's long and fascinating history, its rich folk literature, and its deep cultural roots. A historical overview and an introduction to Ukrainian folk literature are followed by 33 traditional tales-humorous animal tales, instructive fables, how and why stories, heroic legends, and even spooky tales. Ukraine, a country that was for years forgotten, has recently emerged from the shadows of the former Soviet Union to take its place on the world stage. This unique collection of stories introduces readers to Ukraine's long and fascinating history, its rich folk literature, and its deep cultural roots. A historical overview and an introduction to Ukrainian folk literature are followed by 33 traditional tales-humorous animal tales, instructive fables, how and why stories, heroic legends, and even spooky tales. Color plates and line drawings illustrate elements from the stories and show readers some of the landscape, architecture, and folk arts of Ukraine. A great source for read-alouds and student reports, this book is a wonderful addition to the school or public library collection. With the recent influx of immigrants from Ukraine, renewed interest in this part of the world, and the country's increased visibility in international politics, this book will be a valuable resource for school and public