Tales from Moominvalley (Moomins, 6)

If you grew up with the Moomintrolls just as I did, you'll probably be just as happy as I was to know that the books are not only available but still in print and you can order brand new unblemished copies. If you didn't grow up with the Moomintroll books, it's never too late to learn to love them or teach the kids in your life to do so. To the uninitiated, it's hard to explain what makes the Moomintrolls so great. Sometimes there are great adventures in their tales but often they are distinguished from other so-called children's literature by the quiet, philosophical bent of much of the text. Either way they're gems not to be missed. (NOTE: when I say "so-called children's literature" it's not because I disdain children's literature but rather that I disdain the idea that it's just for children. A Wrinkle in Time, the Moomintroll books, The Phantom Tollbooth, these are great books and they remain worth reading at any age.)

A collection of shorter stories by a children's lit master. You should probably read a few of the other books first to have context but really a lovely book for every age.

I loved this book. Loved the story of how the Moomins discovered Christmas and thought it was a threat they had to be ready for . I loved the story of Moominpapa yearning for the wicked life in the island of the Hattifaternes, the strange beings that only live for storms. I loved the story of the Hemulen and his theme park of Silence. I loved all the stories for their unusual and sometimes gloomy wonder. Couldn't get the Fillyjonk story out of my head, it was so desperate and wise. These are s ...more I loved this book. Loved the story of how the Moomins discovered Christmas and thought it was a threat they had to be ready for . I loved the story of Moominpapa yearning for the wicked life in the island of the Hattifaternes, the strange beings that only live for storms. I loved the story of the Hemulen and his theme park of Silence. I loved all the stories for their unusual and sometimes gloomy wonder. Couldn't get the Fillyjonk story out of my head, it was so desperate and wise. These are simply the best books for children I've ever come across.

These are the same Moomin books, with beautiful artwork on the sleeve and inside covers! Some of them even have a little fold out Maps in the beginning, showing the area in the story. Note: the text and page numbers don’t EXACTLY match up to the old series, but that’s a very small issue. I am so EXCITED to have these new hardcover movement books, they are smaller size and very durable. I love them! The paperbacks aren’t bad either, just not as durable and not as much pretty artwork. But they are also a good cheaper option.

I've bought this book for several people now. It's one of our favorites. Little guy is 5, and I'm way older. The illustrations are interesting and many. The stories almost defy description. Many are allegories for psychological challenges... and social difficulties. All are sweet, occasionally melancholy, unexpectedly and irreverently funny, and poetic. The writing is really some of the most un-self-conciously skillful I've encountered. On par with Alfredo Vea Jr, Sr. Suess, Lynda Barry and Amy Herrick (at her best--At the Sign of the Naked Waiter). The excerpt that sold me on this book, and which is still one of my favorites, is from The Spring Tune: "'It's the right evening for a tune,' Snufkin thought. A new tune, one part expectation, two parts spring sadness, and for the rest just the great delight of walking alone and liking it." The narratives are fairly easy to understand. Nothing about this book is unnecessarily obscure/obtuse, but neither is it ever predictable. What a strange and wonderful combination.

And not sappy or sentimental. Sometimes with books for younger readers the attempt to provide a gentle and uplifting message is swamped by Hallmark card pieties and sappiness. Jansson's books do not drift into such territory. They are clear-eyed and practical. The characters are flawed, but trying to do right. The stories have honest charm and wisdom, and humor, and are not "message driven". They are ddeft, and light and still satisfying.

A bunch of fun tales. The Moomin books are all great.

I’m in love with all of them, but my favourite is Snufkin. Tove Jansson is a god for creating this amazing series. She also was a lesbian and an artist. I wish she didn’t die 1 year after I was born. Due to my love for the moomins, I’m no longer clinically depressed for that Moomin filled a hole in my cold, dead heart and brought it back to life. He is our savior, our messiah. The mother (tove) The son (Moomin, our hero) And the Holy Spirit (the groke) are all holy entity’s that we should appreciate and greet with love and acceptance.