Christmas Tales of Flanders is a collection of folk stories from the regions of Flanders and Brabant, presented with illustrations by Jean de Bosschère.
The tales, which have been passed down through oral tradition, often share similarities with folk narratives from other European cultures but retain distinct Flemish characteristics. The stories, such as Simple John and The Boy Who Always Said the Wrong Thing, are marked by their simple, sometimes primitive characters and whimsical adventures, highlighting the creative imagination of the Flemish people. These folk tales serve a similar function to nursery rhymes in other cultures, offering both entertainment and moral lessons.
The collection draws from various sources, including Zoo Vertellen de Vlamingen and the Brabantsch Segenboak, and reflects the broader European tradition of collecting and preserving folk narratives. The tales featured in this volume were translated into English for the first time by M. C. O. Morris and offer a glimpse into the cultural history of Flanders. The illustrations by de Bosschère complement the storytelling, reinforcing the timeless appeal of these folk tales.