1) The Korean Cinderella written by Shirley Climo, illustrated by Ruth Heller
Plot Summary: Follow Pear Blossom from the time of her birth, when her father plants a pear tree in her honour, through her plight in coping with her evil stepmother Omoni. Set in feudal Korea, this story shares many similarities with Disney's Cinderella, and both stories take root in the Greek myth of Rodophis in Egypt. Although Pear Blossom's father remains oblivious to the challenges she faces due to Omoni's cruelness, she receives magical support from nature from frogs and sparrows.
Appeal: Aimed at children ages 5-9, this colourful tale is both educational and exciting. This book is a wonderful way to introduce children to the stories of other cultures through the reimagining of tales they may already be acquainted with.
Limitations and Weaknesses: Although packaged in a child-friendly way, the character of Omoni may be upsetting to some readers, and the adult reading the book should be sure to offer support and explanations into the unacceptable nature of her behaviour.
Climo, S. (1993). The Korean Cinderella. HarperCollins.
2) Burmese Children's Favourite Stores by Pascal Khoo Thwe, illustrated by Maeve Bates
Plot Summary: These folktales feature everything from evil ogres to handsome princes! Passed down for many generations, and notated by the author from the tradition of his grandmother, this collection masterfully captures the magic surrounding an other-worldly Burmese village. This book is a collection of eight stories including "The Squirrels and the Bees," "Let her Take the Shadow," and "The Seven Sisters."
Appeal: Aimed at children ages 6-8, this collection is breathtakingly illustrated by self-taught illustrator Maeve Bates. Children will be sure to be excited and captivated by the way that the lush visuals compliment the interesting storylines. The perfectly condensed plot lines of these folk tales are a perfect way to introduce children to the traditional stories of Burmese culture.
Limitations and Weaknesses: While it is integral to encourage children to engage with stories from cultures outside their own, this title does pose the potential for the overgeneralization of Burmese culture. Additionally, offering this culture in a Western-style delivery (through picture book reading rather than traditional inter-generational sharing) can be an instance of "exoticizing" a foreign culture. However, discussing that with children in conjunction with the reading of the story can offer an extra educational edge to the reading experience.
Khoo Thwe, P. (2022). Burmese children’s favorite stories: Fables, myths and fairy tales. Tuttle Publishing