The raven is for me a uniquely charming, ambiguous mythical figure: on one hand, the symbol of death and dark omens, on the other, the harbinger of light. That's why it nestled among the rare fairy tales in this small collection. Because everything, except for the humorous, leads from darkness to light - from "oh, sorrow" to "phew, freedom".

They come from many parts of the world - from the Arctic Circle, the Cree Indians of Canada, the Berbers of Kabylia, the Thousand and One Nights, Eastern Africa, Tibet. At the heart of the book, Greece, with two wonderful magical fairy tales from my homeland, Lesbos. The narration of all the fairy tales is followed by an epilogue with commentary.

If some of them catch your attention, bring them to life with spoken words. Speaking them is the only way to return them to the world of orality that gave them breath. For those who have no experience in storytelling, remember that fairy tales do good - both to the one who tells them and to the one who listens. Dare to try. The only sure "technique" is to tell them with your heart.

Beginning of the fairy tales. Greetings to your lordship!