Feathers, Fools and Farts: Folktales from Manipur – @blogchatter #bookreview

Feathers, Fools and Farts: Folktales from Manipur – @blogchatter #bookreview

I Love reading Folktales and immersing myself in the myths and beliefs of those times and that region. It is an enriching experience to read the tales that have been retold a thousand times.
Like that is what fascinates me – I always wonder WHY the stories that are retold were told.
Why those particular stories, and not others? What about them has stood the test of time that storytellers choose them over others do pass down the generations? What do you think?

THE BOOK: Feathers, Fools and Farts: Folktales from Manipur

by L. Somi Roy & Thangjam Hindustani Devi (Authors)
Illustrated by Sapha Yumnam

These ten wacky stories in Feathers, Fools, and Farts: Manipuri Folktales Retold from Manipur, perched on India’s border with Myanmar, are not for scaredy-cats.
Nor for those of you who do not enjoy a hearty laugh or a good cry. And if you try to copy the foolishness of the characters, animal and human, in these folktales, you just might turn into a tiger, get stung by a swarm of bees, or even get poo’ed on.
If, however, you believe in strange romances, admire bravery, and like magic and sorcery, this book is for you, wherever you are.

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BUY THE BOOK: Feathers, Fools and Farts: Folktales from Manipur – PAPERBACK and KINDLE

ABOUT THE BOOK & Some Thoughts : Feathers, Fools and Farts: Folktales from Manipur

Feathers, Fools and Farts: Folktales from Manipur is an anthology of 10 folktales, that not only entertains but also offers profound insights into the essence of Manipuri culture and storytelling traditions.

Why did the tradition of lighting a lamp on the full moon night of the autumn month of Mera, which is still followed by younger brothers of the Meiteis (native Manipuri ethnic group) begin?

The might of the Toad and the animal kingdom. I sincerely believe that we must respect nature, or it may be too late if nature decided to show us our place.

One my own favorite visualizations, flying away to another world – Books like these really do take me to another world, which is why I do so love reading 🙂

I enjoyed the story of Tapta, the (fictitious demon) that scared the crybaby Tompok, the Tiger and the thief, and gave the mother a much needed respite. Lol!

and 6 more stories where mystical creatures roam and ordinary folk encounter extraordinary adventures.

I also want to mention the title itself, with its playful alliteration, it hints at the delightful eccentricity found within these tales! and I have enjoyed saying the book’s name out loud – and have the listener cock their head, and ask ‘what did you say is the name of the book you read’ – haha! I love when there is a fun element to a book, and in this case, that is the name of the book itself!

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BOOK REVIEW : Feathers, Fools and Farts: Folktales from Manipur

First things First, The Book Cover and Illustrations and the QUALITY of the Paper and Printing and even the size of the book (10.5 inches) – I LOVED the book itself!
In these times of reprints on course paper, this book felt like a luxury to hold and read.

Feathers, Fools and Farts: Folktales from Manipur – 10 delightful #folktales from #manipur – An insight into the #people & #culture#bookreview #blogchatter @blogchatter Share on X

The stories themselves, 10 folktales that were varied and no two stories were alike. I enjoyed reading the stories, which are well-written, I feel even children can easily read and enjoy this book.
The authors have blended humor with timeless wisdom. Through the vivid imagery and colorful language, one can sense the vibrant traditions and deep-rooted beliefs that have shaped Manipuri society for centuries. This book really brought alive the simple stories, anecdotes and allegories that are the landscape of Manipur.
Each illustration, done in the style of Manipuri iconography are apt to the story – you can trace the story in the sketches, not to mention that they are beautiful and the book quality does justice to them.

This is a great book to gift – they would appreciate the stories and the vessel of the book itself – it is such a good quality book!

BOOK REVIEW : Feathers, Fools and Farts: Folktales from Manipur
BOOK REVIEW : Feathers, Fools and Farts: Folktales from Manipur

I spent the afternoon in the garden reading this book, soaking in the sun and stories.
I felt like I was sitting at the knee of my grandma as she retold these stories to me, and delightfully, these were not lesson heavy stories with morals and teachings. Rather, these were stories of how people were, and how some things, like the lighting of the lamps, or the myth of ‘Tapta’ came about and have stood the test of time, the test of multiple retellings and the test of fading human memory and humour.

STAR RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

Do you have a favorite folktale? Do you enjoy reading stories from a particular region? Tell me why in the comments below.

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This blog post is part of the blog challenge â€˜Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Bohemian Bibliophile.
This post is part of the Bookish League blog hop hosted by Bohemian Bibliophile

This review is powered by Blogchatter Book Review Program

Disclaimer – This Post contains affiliate links.

52 comments found

  4. I love to read short stories from different regions. Here, I guess all these folktales of Manipur are gems, as they bring the real culture and essence. I am going to buy this book. Thanks for such a great review.

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  7. That poem introducing the content of the book had me hooked. Is it from the book itself? I’m fan of short fiction and this one seems like fun ride. Your review had me curious (added with the fact that you’ve given it a 4/5 rating) and I’ll surely be checking this one out.

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  8. So beautiful books. Finally, getting something so soothing and peaceful from Manipur, which was recently in news for sudden violent clash. Such folktales reinstate belief in humanity. And you described everything so perfectly.

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  9. What a fun title indeed! I have also always loved reading folk tales (just like you they take me away to far away lands!) but haven’t read any from the North – East. Definitely sounds like an interesting read!

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  11. The illustrations sound like they add another layer of depth to the stories, capturing the essence of Manipuri culture and bringing the narratives to life in a visually stunning way. And I agree, there’s something special about holding a well-crafted book in your hands, especially in today’s digital age.

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  12. The book and its cover look great. I havent read many tales/stories from Manipuri authors or about the state, this book surely looks like the one I should pick up. Thanks for the recco.

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  13. This book, “Feathers, Fools and Farts: Folktales from Manipur,” offers ten quirky tales that entertain and provide insights into Manipuri culture. The stories blend humor with wisdom, making them enjoyable for readers of all ages. The illustrations complement the tales well and add to the overall charm of the book. It’s a delightful read that brings alive the vibrant traditions and beliefs of Manipur.

    Reply

  14. The catchy title and the promise of immersing myself in the folklore of Manipur is itself to pick this book for reading but the lure of the illustrations in traditional style is just too too much now.

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  15. I love reading folktales especially if it’s from another culture. I do love how penguin brings a lot of these literary translation work. Will check this out

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  16. Manipur – I am curious to know the culture. Folktales are always reflecting cultures. I am going to read this book. This will be sure very interesting read Because of the cover.

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  19. Wow, your review caught my attention. It’s been a long time since I’ve read any folktales, and your recommendation sounds interesting. Would love to read for my child if I find it a good read for her.

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  20. Folktales have a distinct flavour that brings out the culture and eccentricity of the region they’re from. This book sounds like a fun read and indeed looks good too. Will check it out.

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  23. Our school library had a collection of folk tales from around the world and I loved reading them. Somehow they were all relatable and gave the nostalgic feeling. I still feel the same feeling even remembering them now. Your review is quite tempting and I may
    pick up this book and since you say it is an easy read, maybe my daughters will read it too. I didn’t like the title as much but I’m curious to know how it fits in the book.

    Reply

  24. Beautiful expression of stories and the way you enjoyed reading the book. I liked the pictures. Though I don’t select a book based on any typical area but like to know about varied places in general.

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  27. It’s incredible how these stories have endured through generations, crossing borders and cultures, to captivate audiences around the world. I think the reason certain stories are retold lies in their timeless themes and universal truths.

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  28. This review of “Feathers, Fools and Farts: Folktales from Manipur” was delightful! I could feel your joy in reading the stories and admiring the book’s quality. Thanks for sharing your sunny afternoon and grandma’s storytelling vibes with us!

    Reply

  30. Folktales continue to enchant people today for many reasons. They tell us our history, they describe where we live, what our values are and
    ultimately who we are. Would love to read this for sure

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  32. Lovely review. shorts stories are my fav. Book seems interesting. Thanks for the insights. would try to get my hands on them.
    stories from different region are always exciting to me

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  33. I had tried to get this book for review from Blogchatter, but there were too many application for this one, so mine wasn’t selected. Now i know why. I was intrigued by the cover and I was eager to know the cultural life of people from Manipur. Thanks for your review; now I’m getting one for myself.

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  34. Yours is the second review of this book, and I think I really should check it out , seems fab. I too got a book on Naga Folk tales this time from India, but am yet to start reading it

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  35. I am itching to get my hands on this one, I know the North-eastern folk tales are full of magical and mythical beings so this would be like being transported to another land altogether. It would also be enriching to knoe more about the culture and traditions of Manipur.

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  39. Recently in Aadi Mahotsav..I had a chance to taste their food and watch dance from Manipur ..it’s amazing.this book is something which will help to explore more on to the state.

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  40. We know so litle about the northeast, I would love to read this book. I like to know how legends take on shapes and become a part of our lives. Besides you say it’s simply written, illustrated and has a lot about myths and nature.

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  41. I love reading folktales because they transport me to enchanting worlds filled with magic and wonder, while also teaching timeless lessons that resonate across cultures and generations. Each story is a window into the rich tapestry of human imagination and cultural heritage, captivating me with its unique characters, settings, and narratives.

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  42. I love the title of this book! So fun. It sounds like an excellent book, too. I don’t know much about Manipuri culture, and folk tales are such a delightful way to learn about the beliefs of different people and places.

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  43. Usually folklore encompasses the traditional beliefs, stories, customs, and legends, transmitted orally, from generation to generation. The most common folklore genres are: fairy tales, legends, myths, tall tales, and fables.

    Were as Regional literature is a good source of history because it helps us to understand the regional reforms ,monuments ,inscriptions and the administration of a particular region at a particular time.

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  44. I had seen this book on blogchatter book review page but I was in two minds…though your review here surely shows that I missed out on an amazing book. And regarding folktales, that went spiraling down as I think I remember none, perhaps except Panchtantra!

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  45. It’s clear that these stories have captured your imagination and transported you to another world – what more could we ask for from a book?

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  46. I have heard a lot about this book. Though I am not particular about reading area-specified books I want to know more about Manipur. The beginning prose is heartwarming and depicts a lot about the book.

    Reply

  48. I read a book called ‘Folktales of Rajasthan’ many years ago.

    This one sounds very interesting. I like reading multicultural stories. I have read two books set in the North East by Janice Pariat. Seems fascinating to me.

    Reply

  49. That is an interesting book title. I have seen the book doing the rounds, added it to my TBR too, but haven’t had a chance to pick it up yet. Your review just bumped it up the list.

    Reply

  50. With Manipur in the news recently for all the wrong reasons, books like these become even more important to shine a positive light on a lesser-known culture of our country. I would love to read this.

    Reply

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