THE FAERIE ISLE

A collection of Irish myths and legends, some encouraging, most cautionary.

Irish folklore is populated by faeries, or “the good people,” as you’d best call them. They include creatures great and small, those of the land and of the sea, those who act as harbingers, and others who frankly just don’t like to be bothered. Each well-researched entry includes a page of general description covering the creature’s historical origins and traditional behaviors and temperament, as well as lessons to be learned, followed by a brief tale. “The Queen’s Shoes” tells of a tiny leprechaun shoemaker who rewards a kindly young shepherd, while “At the Crossroads” centers on a brave young girl’s encounter with the Headless Horseman. Quinn’s writing has a folksy, intimate tone; readers will feel as though they’re huddled by the fireside, listening to a gifted storyteller holding an audience spellbound. Even folklore enthusiasts will find unique depths within each jam-packed entry. Reminiscent of Stephen Gammell’s work, Flynn’s illustrations are grotesquely gorgeous—like the fae they depict, they are texturally rich, glowing with a unique allure and just a touch unsettling. Her use of color and negative space is haunting, well paired with the creatures depicted.

Fantastic in all respects.