Aesop's Fables

Aesop's Fables
illustrated by Arthur Rackham

The Moral Of The Story Is...!

This is a book that has been sitting on my book shelf for some time now, and back in 2013 I began going through these stories as part of the Moral Of The Story challenge that I never actually got around to finishing.

Contained within these stories are a number of classic characters that have a familiarity about them, such as 'The Man', 'The Old Woman', 'The Fisher' and 'The Woodman'. However there are also a great many more characters in these stories that are animals of one sort or another, such as foxes, wolves, horses and mice. It is through these simplistic and uncomplicated character and animal archetypes that these stories are able to be understood for what they are without the complications that more complex human interactions can bring, giving the moral to each story a more powerful impact.

Aesop's Fables is a collection of 285 fables that are, if not actually written by Aesop himself, than are Aesop like enough to be attributed to him. As there are some who may argue the authorship of these fables the point is not who wrote these fables but the moral of these fables themselves. Although old in their origin, and at times dated in their context, the morals these stories offer are timeless as each has the potential to offer wisdom as well as whimsy to those who take the time to read them. These are stories not only to entertain both the young and old, but also to give one something to think about.

 

Aesop's Fables

Aesop's Fables

 

On sale: 08 September 1992
Price (AU): can be found Free online
ISBN: 9780517171981
Recommended age: all ages
In a word: Fables
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Forest Fae Messages

Forest Fae Messages by Nadia Turner

"Curious Messages Of Enchantment"

Within this mini deck you are introduced to new and distinctive Fae creatures who are ready to offer you their words of inspiration, encouragement and insight. These are creatures who live on the threshold between our world and theirs, inviting us to cross the boundaries and glimpse into the magical world of the forest to learn from its wisdom.

Forest Fae Messages is a deck filled with positive and affirming messages accompanied by unique Fae creatures that are a wondrous blend of both the natural world and the fantastical, beautifully brought to life by Australian artist Nadia Turner. It really is such a lovely deck to own and explore, or would make a wonderful gift for both adults and children.

(CLICK HERE FOR A MORE IN-DEPTH REVIEW OF THIS DECK)

Nadia Turner Webpage
Nadia Turner - Wayward Harper
Nadia Turner @ Rockpool Publishing

(includes 40 Cards)
On sale: 07 April 2021
Price (AU): $14.99
ISBN: 9781925946192
Recommended age: all ages
In a word: Fae
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Healing With The Fairies Oracle Cards

Healing With The Fairies Oracle Cards by Doreen Virtue

 

"Heal Your Life With Help From The Fairies"

Fairies have long existed, sharing their knowledge, wisdom and enchantment to those who were willing to open their hearts to them. Found in places of magic, such as in woods, at the bottom of gardens or simply in your own imaginations, fairies have always served as guides. And now through these oracle cards the fairies are able to do just that.

Healing With The Fairies Oracle Cards are a fun and enchanting source of entertainment, enlightenment and magic. Beautiful and positive affirmations accompany these enchanting images of the fairies who share their wisdom, love and healing. A wonderful gift for a treasured loved one or a special treat to buy for yourself.

Doreen Virtue Webpage
Doreen Virtue @ Walker Books

(includes 44 Cards + Booklet)
On sale: 01 June 2004
Price (US): $24.95
ISBN: 9781561707850
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Fairies
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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FLOWER FAIRIES: A Treasury Of Flower Fairies

FLOWER FAIRIES:
A Treasury Of Flower Fairies
by Cicely Mary Barker

A Collection To Treasure!

From small beginnings as seeds they grow

Into wondrous fairies whose flowers we know.

From each bloom, each bud, petal and wing

Is seen a rainbow of colours to make your heart sing.

But while some of these fairies may be as old friends

There are others to discover, with much love to send.
  

A Treasury Of Flower Fairies is perfect for your home

As it's filled with fairy images and each with a poem.

Each fairy and flower is beautifully detailed with care

Shown in each pencil stroke and each word delivered with flair.

So take a moment to ponder and skip through these pages

But be warned, stay too long and you might be gone ages.

Flower Fairies

On sale: 03 November 1993
ISBN: 9780723237969
Recommended age: 6+
In a word: Fairies
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Betty Bib's Fairy Handbook

Betty Bib's Fairy Handbook
by Betty Bib

'A Field Guide To Fairies And Their Habbits'

Fairies come in all shapes and sizes and their moods are as varied as yours and mine. Though fond of nature and sweets and laughter there are also fairies that live under your very nose. Either causing mischief or helping out round the home as they so desire, for the most part fairies go about unseen, though occasionally you may feel there presence. When socks go missing, cakes are baked, surfaces are found clean or else powdered footprints are discovered in miniature, you can be sure that fairies are near.
 

Betty Bib's Fairy Handbook is a detailed guide to all things fairy. As an ambassador for PUFF (Promoting Understanding of Fairy Folk) the author has delivered a comprehensive, sensitive and enjoyable guide to the fairy world detailing the lives, looks and sleeping habits of fairies. Not to mention a greater understanding of these elusive folk and how we might better attract fairies into our everyday lives. A beautifully whimsical guide filled with illustrations and photos to enjoy and ponder.

Betty Bib's Webpage

On sale: 30 November 2005
ISBN: 9781844831944
Recommended age: 6+
In a word: Fairies
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Wild Child

Wild Child by Jeanne Willis
illustrated by Lorna Freytag

Into The Wild!

In the wild lives a child, she lives all alone. She is the last of her kind and the earth is her home. Other children lived there once, but they were all taken away. Made to stop and sit still, made to behave and to stay. But one child in the wild is still free to be, never tamed and held back, she is happy and free.

Wild Child is curious, adventurous and brave. Enter her world and you'll want to stay. She lives in a world filled with nature, beauty and fun. She'll make you want to play, skip, hop and run. She is an inspiration as is the images that hold her, and her simple little story will bring pleasure, wonder and laughter.

Jeanne Willis Webpage
Lorna Freytag Webpage
Mary Losure @ Walker Books

On sale: 01 January 2012
Price (US): $27.95
ISBN: 9781406323085
Recommended age: 1-5
In a word: Wild
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Fantasy Art Journal

Fantasy Art Journal

"My Mind Is My Weapon... And A Mind Needs Books"

A place where dragons are rescuers, where trees talk, rings are all powerful and where anything you can believe in can become reality. This is a world where anything you can imagine can be unleashed with more then enough space to give home to all those creative ideas, thoughts, dreams and wishes.

Fantasy Art Journal is a charming and inspiring journal filled with a number of fantasy quotes that will stir your imagination. Comprising of blank, lined an graph pages, this journal will support you in any creative endeavour whether that is through writing, sketching, planning or any other form of creative expression you could think of. This is a special journal you should treat yourself to or buy for that someone special.

@ Thames & Hudson

On sale: 01 March 2012
Price (AU): $19.95
ISBN: 9781908150516
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Journal
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Runes Of Elfland

Runes Of Elfland by Brian Froud

A Gateway Into Faerie!

There are many doors and pathways to Faerie, even a window will do if you can open it wide enough to fit through. However this guide takes you by the hand and leads you willingly to a place where faeries exist, a place where they play, dance and dream. Anywhere you find nature, the wind, the sky, a puddle of water, you will find a story and a gateway into Faerie.

The Runes Of Elfland are a set of twenty-four runes known collectively as the Elder Futhark. Each individual rune represents more then just its sound or letter, there is a meaning behind each symbol and a story behind each meaning. Between the pages of this book are charms, stories, gifts and symbols that will amuse, delight and enlighten all those who venture along pathways and through doors opened within these pages. A beautiful book for lovers of faeries, art, fairytales and magic.

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

Brian Froud @ Thames & Hudson

Brian Froud @ Abrams Books

On sale: 01 July 2003
Price (AU): $20.86
ISBN: 9780810946125
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Fairies
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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50 Things Every Young Lady Should Know

50 Things Every Young Lady Should Know
by Kay West
with John Bridges & Bryan Curtis

'Good Manners Never Go Out Of Style'

While most of what's in this book may seem to most to be nothing more then simple common sense and polite manners, sadly in today's impersonal society these most basic of skills and knowledge are becoming lost. The simple thing like 'please' and 'thank you' never go out of style, and no matter what anyone said, it is never cool to be rude.

50 Things Every Young Lady Should Know is a guide book that reminds us all that the simple acts of kindness and courteous manners are worth more then money can buy. This is the kind of book that belongs in every home, teaching young ladies social skills that they can't learn in schools, and may not be learning at home, skills that are simple, practical and will serve them their whole lives.

Kay West @ Thomas Nelson

On sale: 01 November 2011
Price (US): $16.99
ISBN: 9781401600648
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Etiquette
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Lady Cottington's Pressed Fairy Journal

Lady Cottington's Pressed Fairy Journal by Brian Froud

A Place Where Dreams Are Stored And Fairies Are Squashed!

When Angelica Cottington shocked the world with her fairy squashing ways, not to mention her proving once and for all that fairies exist, she did it through a dairy not too dissimilar from this journal. As one of the greatest fairy related finds in history, Lady Cottington's story has entertained, enchanted and engaged all who have been lucky enough to read it. Now with this journal is an opportunity to create some magic of your own.

Lady Cottington's Pressed Fairy Journal is beautifully bound with a ribbon page marker and antiqued pages. Pre-lined and littered with squashed fairies throughout, this is the perfect home to store your dreams, wishes, stories, random thoughts, or anything you care to jot down. Filled with the promise of endless possibilities this exquisite book would make a perfect gift for that someone special, or a charming treat for yourself.

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

Brian Froud @ Thames & Hudson

Brian Froud @ Abrams Books

On sale: 01 July 2003
Price (AU): $20.86
ISBN: 9780810985438
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Fairies
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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How To See Faeries

How To See Faeries by Brian Froud and John Matthews

I Can See A Faerie!

It's not hard to see faeries, not really if you try. Though you may only see them if your looking, it may not be with your eyes. There are many ways and means to Faerie, through games and rhyme and art. But the best way to spot a faerie is to use your own true heart. So keep your mind open and taken time to listen, for if you're very lucky you may see a faerie too.

But a warning to all who venture here, for time is not the same. And with each page a lifetimes lived, treasured moments to be relived again. Watch for the symbols and follow the clues, be ready to step through the gate. Just remember, though they are tricksters, meeting faeries is up to fate. When strolling through Faerie, slow down and take your time, after all you're just a visitor and you're only passing through.

How To See Faeries is more then just a beautiful guide book to the fey, this is a portal to another world not all that far away. Here you are guided by the hand, into a strange and wondrous Faerie Land. A place of hidden messages and magical devices, staying close to your heart it more then suffices. But just remember, although you may seek to see a faerie, it may just be a faerie that is seeking to see you.

John Matthews Webpage

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

Brian Froud @ Thames & Hudson

Brian Froud @ Abrams Books

On sale: 01 April 2011
Price (AU): $44.95
ISBN: 9780810997509
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Faeries
Re-read it: yes, many times
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Gnomes

Gnomes: Deluxe Collector's Edition
by Wil Huygen and Rien Poortvliet

Who Is This Little Man?

For hundreds of years gnomes have watched, listened, advised, assisted and inspired us. Known for their wisdom, patience and kindness to small animals, gnomes have always been there as an essential part of nature. At times they have even been known to assist those in need, council those with difficulties and on occasion teach the unpleasant among us a hard lesson.

Elusive and cunning, these happy little men with their affinity for animals and knowledge of plant life run about the night on their secret duties, while at home the females are busy tending the children and completing domestic chores. Their sworn enemies, besides animals of prey, are trolls who are disliked for their foul odour and general badness; in turn trolls detest gnomes for their beguiling ways and quick feet.

Gnomes is a charming and comprehensive guide into the world of these amazing and astonishing little people. Known mostly for their full beards, rosy cheeks and nose rubbing ways, within these pages you will discover just what it is to be a gnome. Which according to any gnome would be his cap, for a gnome is just not a gnome without his pointy red cap. With physiology, remedies, courtship, legends, songs and personal accounts, Gnomes is a book for anyone with a inquisitive mind and an open heart.

Wil Huygen @ Thames & Hudson

Wil Huygen @ Abrams Books

(includes 8 Frameable Prints)
On sale: 01 May 2011
Price (AU): $49.95
ISBN: 9780810998469
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Gnomes
Re-read it: yes, many times
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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The Goblins Of Labyrinth

The Goblins Of Labyrinth by Brian Froud
captured and cataloged by Terry Jones

'Stranger! If You Would Know The Goblins Of The Labyrinth, Seek...'

When a small, impossibly ancient, earthenware pot was first discovered in remote Olduvai Gorge its significance was such that it was promptly ignored and abandoned. Luckily it was later discovered and destroyed by Brian Froud. However before its destruction Mr Froud was able to discover a message hidden within this pot. And when that message was eventually deciphered he began a journey that would lead to the greatest goblin related discovery in history.

The Labyrinth, created by a goblin king, was built as a refuge to goblins from those in the world not of goblinkind. Over the years the Labyrinth has become one of the only places in the world where goblins can be found, however until now little has ever been known of their daily lives let alone their appearances. But when one goblin artist decided to thrown down his images of goblins, images that were later enhanced or butchered depending on who you talk to, finally the world was introduced to the goblins of Labyrinth.

The Goblins Of Labyrinth is a unique look at a species that has eluded, beguiled, teased, tormented and terrorised many a human over the course of history, a time honoured goblin pastime that is still alive and well today. There is much to read, see and ponder within these pages, the least of which not being the story, and goblins, behind the well known movie Labyrinth. Aside from this however there are plenty of legends, tales and poems, not to mention recipes, games, philosophies and sacred days to uncover. All in all a very beautifully presented book of not so beautiful beasts.

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

Brian Froud @ Thames & Hudson

Brian Froud @ Abrams Books

On sale: 1 October 2006
Price (AU): $49.95
ISBN: 9780810970557
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Goblins
Re-read it: yes, many times
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Mermaid Magic

Mermaid Magic
by Lucy Cavendish & Serene Conneeley

'Connecting With The Energy Of The Ocean
And The Healing Power Of Water'

The oceans have long drawn people to its shores to marvel at its wonder and beauty, its ability to provide and its power to destroy. For thousands of years people have taken to the seas to find food, fortune and adventure. Those who meet the waters find themselves moved by its music, mystery and depth and few can turn their back on it without leaving behind a piece of their heart. As the personification of these waters Mermaids carry with them a magic and intrigue that has captured our imaginations for thousands of years.

Mermaid Magic is more then just a history of mermaids and the legends that have sustained them; it is a book of healing, hope and magic. A catalogue of spells, stories and knowledge on a number of sea creatures that are as majestic as they are inspiring. Even as land animals we rely on the power water has to sustain us, provide for us and heal us. Mermaids are the embodiment of water and of life, and it is impossible for us to deny that which makes up a significant part of who we are, after all it's in our blood.

Lucy Cavendish Webpage

Serene Conneeley Webpage

Paperback @ Mermaid Magic

Paperback @ Amazon

Mermaid Magic

On sale: 13 May 2011
Price (AU): $34.95
ISBN: 9780987050533
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Mermaids
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Chelsea Morning

Chelsea Morning by Joni Mitchell

illustrated by Brian Froud

A Beautiful Way To Start The Day!

With every new day comes the appreciation and pleasures of the simple things in life like milk, honey and rainbows. The sights and sounds of the everyday create music and wonders' demonstrating how magical an ordinary morning really is, filled with joy, faeries and new possibilities. Affectionate, light and playful, it is a perfect story to start your day by or just brighten your day with.

Chelsea Morning brings together Joni Mitchell's classic song with the liveliness of faeries as only Brian Froud can portray them. The Grammy award-winning singer and songwriter Joni Mitchell teams up with award-winning illustrator Brian Froud to create this light and dreamy coupling of music and imagery. Brian's images give Joni's words form and new life in this, Brian's first children's book in decades. This bright yet sweet book is inspirational in a beautifully innocent and naive way.

Joni Mitchell Webpage

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

(includes 1 CD)
On sale: 28 September 2004
ISBN: 9780689035937
Recommended age: 4+
In a word: Colourful
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Faeries

Faeries: Deluxe Collector's Edition
by Brian Froud and Alan Lee

Do You Believe In Faeries?

Whether we are aware of it or not faeries have, for as long as can be remembered, always played a part in the daily lives of men, women and especially children. For as far back as can be remembered there have been stories, ballads and legends of faeries and their ability to connect with the nature on the planet and the nature of man. Though not always with the most desired of results, for as many stories as there are of faeries bringing messages of love and friendship there are also stories of torment and death.

It is perhaps the dualistic nature of these elusive beings that has drawn so many to them and their kind over the years. Within these pages the history, wisdom and playfulness of faeries can be explored, and hidden within each image beauty and inspiration are found. But whether your seeking wisdom, inspiration, or just a simplistic beauty in their existence, Fairies is a guide to the impossible made possible, the magic in wonder, and to a race of beings who, having always existed, are seen not through the eyes but through the heart and mind.

Faeries, thirty years after the original, has been done up all new and golden, but there is more to this book then just a new cover. Inside this deluxe edition you will find more images, more stories and more faeries to take you deeper into the world of faery then you have ever been before. This magical book has so much to offer whether you are just curious about faeries, whether you are an avid faery lover, or whether you are seeking guidance from those elusive and captivating creatures. Not only a must for Brian Froud and Alan Lee fans but also for those with a passion for the faeries and for beautiful art.

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

Brian Froud @ Thames & Hudson

Brian Froud @ Abrams Books

(includes 1 Poster + 8 Frameable Prints)
On sale: 15 November 2010
Price (AU): $49.95
ISBN: 9780810995864
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Faeries
Re-read it: yes, many times
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Wood Nymph Seeks Centaur

Wood Nymph Seeks Centaur by Francesca Lia Block

Find Your Perfect Match!

The dating forest can seem at times a magical place filled with happiness and love, and at other times a place to be feared, where hearts are stolen or left broken. It is not always easy to find your way, especially when the scenery keeps changing. Just who are all these creatures roaming the forests of love and heartbreak? For that matter, what type of creature am I that I dare to enter such a perilous yet hopeful place?

In this forest the first thing you must do is not to discover what creatures are about you, but what creature are you. If you can first see who you are, then you can see who you want, and who you want to avoid. There are many dangers; some more easily avoided then others as attraction can easily lead you down a stray path. But if the right path can be found, one that leads to your own handsome prince, or beautiful princess, then there is no reason why one cannot live happily ever after.

Wood Nymph Seeks Centaur is an eerily accurate, at least in my case, guide to love, life and friendships. This is no ordinary story but a cautionary guide filled with all the wisdom and enchantment that comes with blending myths, fairy tales and astrology. If you ever find yourself lost in these woods, and you will if you haven't already, then this invaluable book will be able to assist you, if not entertain you, as you make your way blindly through this world.

Francesca Lia Block Webpage
Francesca Lia Block @ Allen & Unwin

On sale: 01 January 2010
Price (AU): $35.00
ISBN: 9781596916227
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Dating
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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The Love You Book

The Love You Book by Andrew Wynne

illustrated by Emma Scott

I Love You Soooooo Much!

A little girl, Milly, and her magical friends, a flying fairy, two soft and cuddly bears and one cheeky little cat, do everything together. An enchanting adventure that endearingly demonstrates how these friends share and express their feelings of friendship and love. If hugs and kisses were words and pictures then this book would equal love.

The Love You Book is the sweetest message of love written in a simple yet charming format that makes it the ideal book for anyone who has ever loved or been loved. Bright playful images capture the feeling of warmth and innocence as this beautifully engaging rhyming story unfolds. The perfect story for everyone to share.

Andrew Wynne @ Murdoch Book
The Love You Book

On sale: 01 October 2010
Price (AU): $24.95
ISBN: 9781741969825
Recommended age: 5+
In a word: Love
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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The Adventures of the Princess and Mr. Whiffle: The Thing Beneath the Bed

The Adventures of the Princess and Mr. Whiffle:
The Thing Beneath the Bed by Patrick Rothfuss
illustrated by Nate Taylor

Once Upon A Time!

The Princess and Mr. Whiffle live alone together in a marzipan castle, but they don't mind for they are the best of friends doing everything together. They have many great adventures facing many dangers, though none of these dangers are real but for one exception; the Thing beneath the bed.

Here at the first of three endings you can decide to stop before things get too frightening and you can still pretend that there is nothing too terrifying about the Thing beneath the bed, or else you can go on if you dare.

If you are brave enough to read on then you, along with the Princess and Mr. Whiffle, will be given a great surprise. But that sudden joy will soon turn to sadness when curiosity takes hold, a sadness that leads to terror in the night.

However you can still stop here at the second ending, it is not too late, but if your curiosity has got you hooked and you must know more, then proceed with caution for you have been warned before.

You have come this far and there is no turning back now, but why would you want to when a happy ending is just around the corner... but happy for whom?

The most shocking twist so far is yet to come, a twist that will haunt you long after the last page is read, a twist that will also amuse you if you can get over the shock. You were warned.

The Thing Beneath the Bed is an original and beautifully illustrated fairytale filled with gorgeous images that create a feeling of both innocence and malice. It is a dark and quirky story with a disturbing ending that will leave a smile on your face. Definitely not for children! though I'm sure that they will love it.

Patrick Rothfuss Webpage
Patrick Rothfuss @ Subterranean Press

On sale: 31 July 2010
Price (US): $25
ISBN: 9781596063136
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Marzipan or the Thing
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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The Book Of Faery Magic

The Book Of Faery Magic
by Lucy Cavendish & Serene Conneeley

'Come Away, O Human Child'

Faeries are not just tiny girls with butterfly wings dancing around and granting wishes, although they certainly can be just that. For hundreds of years faeries and their kind have been a part of our lives in some way or another, through stories and songs, and superstitions and customs. Weather you believe in them or not faeries have always been a beautiful, feared, enchanting, inspiring influence to us.

The Book Of Faery Magic is the ultimate guide to all things faery while still being entertaining, informative and enthralling. If you believe in faeries or are just curious there is much for you to learn from this book, from their history and legends, their magical gifts and sites, to their own unique beings found around the world. There are also quizzes and recipes and crafts to keep you busy while you explore their magical world.

Lucy Cavendish Webpage

Serene Conneeley Webpage

Paperback @ Mermaid Magic

Paperback @ Amazon

Faery Magic

On sale: 13 May 2010
Price (AU): $34.95
ISBN: 9780980548723
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Faery
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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