Gothic Folktales from Asia and Africa

Nights of the Dark Moon is a collection of 13 dark folktales compiled from around Asia, with two bonus stories from Africa, retold in the Gothic tradition, known for its air of brooding mystery and chilling fear. The tales feature haunted places, ancient curses, supernatural creatures and desperate maidens. Ranging from the eerily thrilling to the pitiably tragic, the stories evoke dread and terror, but also longing, affection and sorrow. Some serve as cautionary tales, reminding us that there are monsters lurking among us in the real world. A few are well known in their country of origin and have become part of the national folklore. Others are obscure folktales waiting to be discovered, perhaps long forgotten even in the places they originated. The folktales have been extensively researched to be the most complete version published. Since they are not simple retellings, even the familiar will appear strange and fascinating.

Tutu Dutta is a writer of children’s and young adult books. She is the author of eight books, including The Magic Urn and Other Timeless Tales of Malaysia, Eight Treasures of the Dragon, The Jugra Chronicles series and Phoenix Song. She has lived in Singapore, Lagos, New York, Havana and Zagreb as the wife of a Malaysian diplomat.