We're talking about 31 authors children love from A-Z this October. Which means today we're focusing on Aesop.
Our favorite copy of Aesop is a beautifully illustrated, hardback copy:
But we actually have several including this inexpensive Dover copy:
Why do children love Aesop's fables?
The animals. Because they talk. And they have friendships and strained relationships. They often do foolish things. The characters make mistakes. But they also learn lessons.
Children can definitely relate to those experiences. And something about an animal being foolish in a similar way to a child takes the sting out of some of childhood's difficulties.
Other beautiful copies of Aesop to consider:
Aesop is definitely the "oldest" author I'm sharing with you in this series, with his birth given as c. 620 BC and his death given as 564 BC. Aesop is mentioned by Aristotle, Herodotus, and Plutarch. Some traditions suggest that, if Aesop really lived, he was originally a slave. If that's true, it's incredible to think of his stories surviving into our day.
Some sites you might want to check:
- Vita Aesopi
- Aesopica (Aesop's Fables in English, Latin, & Greek)
Do you have a favorite fable from Aesop?
Don't forget that you can find more ideas and printables to go along with this series on this Pinterest Board:
Resources for book lovers:
we started our learning year with a big dose of Aesop! we've really been enjoying Fox + Crow.
I love Jerry Pinkney's picture books of The Lion and the Mouse and The Tortoise and the Hare. Almost no words, the stories are portrayed with beautiful artwork and the emotions and plot come through. We have enjoyed many wordless books over the years, and the Lion and the Mouse is my favorite. He has a lovely Aesop's Fables as well. I really love his artwork, he has lovely editions of fairy tales too.
The Crow and the Pitcher has always been a favorite though I couldn't explain why! :)
Fun 31-day list you've got going here.