Lit List
The Classic Fairy Tales | By Iona & Peter Opie
One of my primary sources when researching Messed Up Origins. This book contains 24 of today’s most well-known fairytales and gives a brief history of their evolution across time.
Norse Mythology | By Neil Gaiman
If you want to dive headfirst into the world of Norse Mythology then this is a great place to start. Neil Gaiman reimagines some of the most famous Norse myths in a way that is somehow both completely original and still faithful to the ancient texts. You’re going to learn about the creation of the universe, the exploits of Thor and Loki, the origins of poetry, and – of course – Ragnarok all through the form of stories.
The Viking Spirit: An Introduction to Norse Mythology and Religion | By Daniel McCoy
A great resource for someone who is new to Norse Mythology but wants a more “scholarly” approach to learning about the Viking Age. Daniel McCoy does an excellent job of breaking down the Norse mythos in a way that is simple to understand but also highly detailed when it comes to citing sources and comparing different versions of the ancient myths. By reading The Viking Spirit you will have a more complete and well-rounded understanding of Norse society, the gods they worshipped, and how they worshipped them. Doesn’t get much better than that.
The Oxford Dictionary of Nursery Rhymes | By Iona & Peter Opie
If you’re curious about the origins of nursery rhymes then you might wanna check this one out! It breaks down everything you need to know about them from the known publications of each rhyme, how it originated, the changes in its wording over time, and variations in versions around the world!
The Disney Version: The Life, Times, Art and Commerce of Walt Disney | By Richard Shickel
A great source for the history of Walt Disney’s life. From his childhood spent on his father’s farm, to his days as an up-and-coming animator, all the way through his ascension to the throne of animation. Not only that, but there’s a plethora of information about the development of some of your favorite Disney classics!
H.C.a. – The Life of a Storyteller | By Jackie Wullschlager
This is probably the best biography on the great Hans Christian Andersen that you’re ever going to find. I’ve referenced it in just about every episode breaking down his stories thus far and will no doubt be discussing it more in the future!
Steel Drivin’ Man: John Henry: The Untold Story of an American Legend | By Scott Reynolds Nelson
My primary resource for “The VERY Messed Up Origins of John Henry” and “The Messed Up TRUE Story of John Henry’s Arrest.” Scott Reynolds Nelson does an incredible job putting his wealth of knowledge about American railroads to use in tracking down who he believes to be the real John Henry.