Children's Literature
The magic in the title refers to the magic of myth and folk and fairy tales. Author Jane Yolen urges us all to touch that magic and pass it on. Pass it on to children in the younger generation who aren't learning the classic tales, those legends that do more than simply amuse and entertain. Ms. Yolen calls them the birthright of children and that to do without them is to "lose humanity's past and to have no star map for our future." Touch Magic, a book of essays advocating the protection and preservation of traditional folk and fairy tales, was originally published in 1981. This new edition includes six additional essays. It is a book to be read slowly, savored, pondered. Phrases cry out to be underlined. Margins are generous enough to allow the reader to star passages and make brief notes, because it is a book that once read, will be returned to. Ms. Yolen, who has been called "the Hans Christian Andersen of America," has written more than 200 books for children, young adults and adults. Her books reflect her love of myth and legend. 2000 (orig. 1981), August House Publishers, $11.95. Ages Adult. Reviewer: Janet Crane Barley AGES: Adult

Library Journal
This revision of a classic collection of historical and analytical essays explores the use of fantasy and fairytales in children's literature. The compilation of 16 perceptive essays includes six new entries and updates others from the original 1981 publication. Yolen, winner of the National Book Award and the Caldecott Medal, among other honors, is a renowned storyteller and author of more than 200 books for children and adults. Authoritative, eloquent, and fetching, her observations focus on traditional tales that have passed down through generations and been altered in the process. Folklore and fantasy have, she asserts, endured as basic learning tools to introduce young readers to the world around them, and the stories are a uniquely appropriate guide to day-to-day realities and culture. The definition and impact of these stories is couched in the wonder of fantasy and themes essential to today's young readers. As Yolen poetically observes, "To do without tales and stories and books is to lose humanity's past, is to have no star map for the future." This book will be prized by teachers, authors, students, and all readers who value the use of folklore, mythology, and the familiar stories of youth. A pleasure to read; highly recommended.--Richard K. Burns, MSLS, Hatboro, PA Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.\