The Faerie Isle: Tales and Traditions of Ireland's Forgotten Folklore

Watch for seal-skinned selkies coming to shore every ninth day to dance--but keep a safe distance, lest you become mesmerized. If you spy a fair mermaid combing her hair whilst sitting upon a rock, look away, as that could be bad luck indeed. And legend has it that just one encounter with the silver-tongued fairy known as the Charmer may leave a person lovesick and heartbroken. This gorgeous book offers illuminating introductions to fifteen remarkable fairies, the lesser-known heroes and villains of Irish folklore, from tiny leprechauns to enormous giants, trickster spirits to slippery shape-shifters. Dramatically lit illustrations, stories inspired by tales from the Irish National Folklore Collection, and a look at each fae's traits and origins make this a keepsake collection and a gift to be treasured.