EDU291: Children's Literature

Mythology Research Guide

This guide was created for ENG251 (Mythology). It includes resources and book recommendations that are also useful for students in EDU291.

Resources on Children’s Myths & Legends

Curated sites featuring folklore, tall tales, myths, legends, and related materials. Note that some resources are not written specifically for children; use judgment when sharing with younger readers.

  • American Folklore

    U.S., Mexican, and Canadian folklore with tall tales, myths & legends, ghost stories, fables, and fairy tales.

  • Solar Folklore — Stanford Solar Center

    Myths and legends reflecting cultural worldviews and attempts to explain natural phenomena. Note: this site was not written for children.

Books on Tall Tales & Creation Myths

Selected titles featuring American folk heroes and world origin stories—great pairings for Mythology (ENG251) and ENH/EDU291.

  • Cover of American Tall Tales by Mary Pope Osborne

    American Tall Tales

    Call Number PZ8.1.O813 AM 1991 — JUV

    A collection of tall tales about such American folk heroes as Paul Bunyan, Sally Ann Thunder Ann Whirlwind, Pecos Bill, and John Henry. 

  • Cover of In the Beginning by Virginia Hamilton

    In the Beginning

    Call Number BL226.H35 1988 — JUV

    A thought-provoking collection of twenty-five stories that reflect the wonder and glory of the origins of the world and humankind. With commentary by the author. “A must for mythology shelves.” — Booklist.

  • Cover of Myths, Legends, and Folktales of America by David Leeming

    Myths, Legends, and Folktales of America

    Call Number GR105 .L43 2000

    This marvelous collection brings together the great myths and legends of the United States—from the creation stories of the first inhabitants to tall tales, fables, and folklore.