Module 3: Mightier than the Sword

Yolen, Jane. 2003. Mightier than the Sword. Illus. by Raul Colon. Silver Whistle: Orlando. FL. ISBN 0-15-216391-3.

This collection of folktales lives up to its title. The lead characters prove that they are “mightier than the sword”. The triumph of brain over brawn is a theme in this series of international folktales. Each tale contains a simple black and white pencil illustration that supports and does not distract from the overall meaning. For each folktale, Jane Yolen relays the country of the tale’s origin, the title, and the moral that the reader should glean at the close of the tale. Readers may not be familiar with these tales, but they will be instantly at ease once they utilize the informational support provided. The Norwegian tale Eating with Trolls may not be familiar but reading the moral at the beginning of the tale and reviewing the study notes about the tale at the end of the book will provide necessary understanding. Librarians are continuously looking for materials for boys and reluctant readers. This collection would be an excellent selection for boys and would be an excellent addition to any library.