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THE LIBRARY OF SPOKEN STORIES

Located in the center of the Whispering Woods, the Library of Spoken Stories serves as the land's beacon. The Library exterior, topped with a dome, blends together the architectural styles of Ancient Greece, Ancient Japan and Medieval Britain. It appears ancient, yet still feels as modern as ever. It must be a result of this land's magic.

Within, you'd be hard-pressed to actually find books here. Instead, this library celebrates the oral tradition of how stories were passed down in early modern history. Statues and busts depict the great storytellers and authors of the past: Homer, Aesop, Shakespeare. Elaborate murals and paintings depict some of the more famous tales in the oral storytelling tradition: "A Thousand and One Nights", "The Odyssey", "Beowulf", "Journey to the West", "Anansi the Spider." Plaques near each bust and statue describe their subjects, and their impact on spoken lore; whilst the murals and paintings have a layer of interactivity to them. When a button is pressed, the murals come to life through amazing projections. Sindbad's boat actually sails the seas; Odysseus fights the Cyclops before your very eyes. All the while, selected bits of narration, lifted direct from the story's prose, are heard.

In the middle of the Library is a raised stage. Throughout the day, Storytellers gather to recite famous stories in the oral tradition. In addition to storytellers reciting snippets of the stories prominently displayed in the library's art, there are also storytellers that tell tales in specific traditions. For example, you might see a recitation from Síthmaith the Bard, telling ancient Celtic tales; or Fatou the Griot, telling the stories of West Africa; or you might meet Haoran, a Chinese storyteller specializing in pingshu, a Han Chinese style of storytelling. The different "entertainers" rotate in different times all throughout the day, so you an expect to be roused by another incredible story every time you enter th room.

A rest before the journey begins...

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