Jane Louise Curry was a prolific author whose literary work draws from a deep well of folklore and history. Her stories often explore themes of adventure and discovery through child protagonists navigating diverse worlds, from Native American legends to European fairy tales. Curry's ability to breathe life into ancient myths and legends in an accessible and engaging manner makes her a distinctive voice in children's literature. Her narratives are further enriched by her own illustrations, adding a visual charm to her creations.
The book features twenty-six captivating tales from fourteen Indian tribes of Texas and the Southern Plains, showcasing a rich tapestry of humor, guidance, and adventure. These stories, rooted in diverse cultures, have been preserved through generations, highlighting the unique traditions and wisdom of these tribes. Each tale offers a glimpse into the lives and values of Indigenous peoples, ensuring their voices and narratives continue to resonate.
A retelling of twenty-two legends about the creation of the world from a variety of California Indian tribes.
Time-travel adventures continue as characters from The Daybreakers face an unexpected twist when an imaginary girl created by Callie and her friends becomes real. This development leads them into a magical mystery rooted in the past, intertwining their lives with the secrets of history and the challenges of their own creation.
The characters navigate perilous challenges in the jeweled caverns of the Shadowlands, where they confront new dangers and unravel the final mysteries surrounding the magic stones. This installment builds on previous adventures and sets the stage for future events in the series, culminating in a dramatic conclusion that deepens the overarching narrative.
A make-believe treasure hunt spirals into a real-life confrontation with an ancient evil when Miggle discovers that strip-mining threatens the Fair Folk living in the mountain. As danger looms, Miggle, along with her siblings and cousins, must assist these enchanting beings in their quest for safety. The story weaves themes of courage and environmental preservation, highlighting the bond between the characters and the magical world they strive to protect.
Thirteen-year-old Ray is sent to live with distant relatives in the remote mountains of Western Virginia, where he grapples with family tensions and school struggles. In this unfamiliar environment, he uncovers a mysterious stone snake within an old coal mine, which links him to a long-buried ancient conflict. As he navigates this strange world, Ray becomes entangled in a tragedy that resonates through time, blending his personal challenges with the echoes of history.
The quest for a missing "dreamstone" leads Runner into the perilous northern Icelands and a foreboding mountain fortress. Amidst a night of unimaginable terror and destruction, he uncovers part of the dreamstone's mystery. Jane Louise Curry intricately weaves an ancient world rich with brooding mystery, danger, and powerful forces, featuring magical characters that enhance the suspenseful fantasy narrative.
A silver medallion transports Dave from the present to sixteenth-century Wales, where he inhabits the life of Dewi. As Dave joins explorers on a quest for legendary cities, he seeks a way to return home. Simultaneously, Dewi navigates the complexities of modern life. Their adventures reveal that they may be more compatible with each other's eras than their own, intertwining themes of destiny, adaptation, and the impact of time on identity.
Eilian grapples with isolation and suspicion from her community, who believe she is a fairy child. Feeling rejected by her family and neighbors, she contemplates escaping to live among the fairies. However, her journey reveals unexpected truths about both herself and the fairies, ultimately guiding her towards self-acceptance and a deeper understanding of her place in the world.