Folklore of the City

Folklore isn’t just found in forests — it thrives in cities too. Folklore of the City reveals the strange, surprising, and often overlooked stories woven through the urban landscapes billions of us call home. From the lore of doorways and rooftops to the mysteries of underground tunnels and the animals who share our cities, this book invites readers to see their surroundings anew. Tapping into traditions that have quietly evolved over thousands of years, Dawn Nelson opens the hidden folkloric archive of our cities, turning buildings, backstreets, and even birds into sources of wonder. Structured in accessible, short sections and styled like a field guide, Folklore of the City is a fresh, contemporary look at an age-old tradition. Explores city-specific myths, legends, and superstitions from homes to public landmarks Covers urban wildlife and their associated folklore — both day-dwellers and nocturnal creatures Includes the often-ignored underground realms of sewers, rivers, and tunnels Features folkloric "liminal spaces" like crossroads and churchyards where strange energies gather Perfect for readers curious about the hidden meaning behind everyday city life Rediscover the magic humming beneath the concrete — open the pages and let the streets start speaking.