Tales from Portugal: A World of Stories for Children

By Coledown Wells

Dive into the enchanting world of Portugal with this captivating collection of fourteen short stories for kids! 

Embark on a delightful journey through the rich tapestry of Portuguese culture, where each story unfolds like a treasure waiting to be discovered. Tales from Portugal is a heartwarming collection that celebrates diversity, family heritage, and multiculturalism.

Explore Cultural Wonders

From the colorful streets of Lisbon to the historic palaces of Sintra and beyond, these stories whisk young readers away on magical adventures that showcase the beauty and diversity of Portugal and Portuguese traditions.

Foster Multicultural Understanding

These stories serve as a valuable classroom resource, offering educators a unique tool to introduce young minds to the wonders of Portugal and promote an appreciation for diverse cultures. Each story weaves cultural insights seamlessly into its narrative, making learning a delightful adventure.

Perfect for All Ages

Whether read aloud by parents, explored independently by young readers, or utilized as a classroom resource, these stories cater to various age groups. The collection aims to spark curiosity and foster a global perspective.

A Kaleidoscope of Emotions

The characters in these tales experience joy, friendship, and resilience, creating a kaleidoscope of emotions that will resonate with readers of all backgrounds. 

Ignite a Love for Learning

Through these stories, children not only gain an understanding of Portuguese traditions but also cultivate a love for learning about different cultures. The collection encourages curiosity and open-mindedness, nurturing the next generation of global citizens.

In Tales from Portugal, every page is a portal to a world where diversity is celebrated, family ties are cherished, and the magic of multiculturalism comes to life. Join us on this literary adventure and let these stories of Portugal captivate your imagination!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Coledown Wells
• Release date: Dec 17, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223386193

Book preview

The Magic Fado Song

Once upon a time, in the sun-kissed city of Lisbon, there lived a curious girl named Maria. She was twelve years old, with chestnut curls that danced in the breeze as she explored the narrow cobblestone streets of her neighborhood. Maria had an insatiable appetite for stories, especially those told through the haunting melodies of fado, the soulful music that echoed through the ancient alleys of Lisbon.

One day, as Maria wandered through the Alfama district, she stumbled upon an old record store tucked away between colorful houses. The bell above the door jingled softly as she stepped inside, greeted by the musty scent of aged vinyl and the crackling warmth of a vintage record player.

The owner of the store, Senhor Silva, looked up from behind the counter and smiled kindly at Maria. Ah, a young music enthusiast! What brings you to my humble shop, my dear?

I love fado, Maria replied with a spark in her eyes. Do you have any rare records or stories about the songs?

Senhor Silva's eyes twinkled with excitement. Ah, fado is more than just music, my child. It's a portal to the soul of Portugal. Let me show you something special.

He reached under the counter and produced an ancient vinyl record, its cover adorned with intricate patterns and the words The Magic Fado Song. Intrigued, Maria listened as Senhor Silva placed the record on the player and gently lowered the needle.

As the haunting strains of fado filled the air, an enchanting transformation began. The room shimmered with a golden glow, and Maria felt a gentle tug at her heart. Suddenly, she found herself standing in a quaint village square, surrounded by the sweet scent of blooming flowers.

She was no longer in Lisbon but in the charming town of Sintra. The Magic Fado Song had transported her to a different region of Portugal. Overhead, the sky was painted with hues of pink and orange as the sun began to set.

In the square, children laughed and played traditional games. Maria approached a group of them, her eyes wide with wonder. They welcomed her with open arms, explaining the customs of their town, from the famous Travesseiros pastries to the folklore of enchanted forests.

As the fado music continued to play, Maria felt a warm breeze envelop her, transporting her once again. This time, she found herself on the shores of the Algarve, where the waves whispered tales of fishermen and the secrets of hidden coves.

In each region, Maria encountered new friends who eagerly shared their stories and traditions. The Magic Fado Song acted as a bridge between cultures, a key that unlocked the heart of Portugal. From the vibrant city of Porto to the historic plains of Évora, Maria's journey was a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and emotions.

In Coimbra, she attended a lively fado performance in a dimly lit tavern. The melancholy voices of the singers echoed through the room, telling tales of love, longing, and saudade. Maria swayed to the rhythm, her heart connecting with the universal emotions embedded in the music.

As the final notes of the fado song played, Maria found herself back in Senhor Silva's record store, the golden glow fading away. She looked around, her eyes sparkling with a newfound understanding of Portugal's diverse tapestry.

Senhor Silva grinned knowingly. You've experienced the magic of fado, my dear. It has the power to connect us to our roots, to transport us across time and space. But remember, the true magic lies in sharing these stories with others.

With a grateful heart, Maria thanked Senhor Silva and left the store, carrying the enchanting memories of her journey.

The Enchanted Azulejo Tile

In the heart of Portugal, in the sun-drenched city of Évora, there lived a young boy named Pedro. With his tousled dark hair and a perpetual twinkle in his eye, Pedro was known for his insatiable curiosity and boundless imagination. Évora, with its cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings adorned with colorful azulejo tiles, was Pedro's playground—a place where every tile held a story, and every story was waiting to be discovered.

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