Baba Yaga: The Ambiguous Mother and Witch of the Russian Folktale (International Folkloristics, V. 3)

Rating:
Summary: In All Her Splendor
Review: As Andreas Johns concludes in his masterfully researched book, BABA YAGA: THE AMBIGUOUS MOTHER AND WITCH OF THE RUSSIAN FOLKTALE: "Baba Yaga defies any single or simple definition or interpretation, and no final definitive word can ever be said about her." Yet, what Johns has done is compile, in a fascinating and highly readable book, everything that has ever been said or written about this fabulous Slavic folktale character. As one who has adored and feared Baba Yaga since childhood, I have been on a quest throughout my life to know more about her -- well, here is the treasure for which I've been searching! Scholars, as well as lovers, of folklore, oral traditions, and the psychology of ancient story will relish the careful research, the vast exploration and deep respect Johns has brought to his wonderful study of Baba Yaga.