Folktales were humble stories, passed down generations by those on the fringes of society: women, peasants, outcast groups. Across the world, these ancient stories are filled with unique characters who hold up a mirror to the world that dreamt them up. From outspoken women cast as witches to anti-authority figures denounced as criminals, flawed heroes to relatable villains, this book celebrates 50 of these misfits and what they mean for us today. Whether it's Muma Padurii, the Romanian forest witch who terrorizes trespassers to protect the environment, or Robin Hood, everyone's favourite lawless activist, we can learn a lot from the rebels of days gone by: how to speak out, embrace our flaws, and be unashamedly ourselves - even if that means being a cannibalistic swamp witch.