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Fairies: The Myths, Legends, & Lore
An enchanting treasury of fairy lore!
Around the corner, behind the bushes, and just out of sight...fairies have spent hundreds of years weaving their way in and out of our homes and gardens to spread their magic. Featuring folklore, mythology, and poetry from around the world, this lovely collection reveals these ethereal spirits' extraordinary powers and the history behind their existence. From the case of the Cottingley fairies in the early twentieth century, whose photographs fooled thousands (including Arthur Conan Doyle), to the mischievous fairies found in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream , the fascinating stories surrounding these magical sprites are sure to captivate anyone who has ever dreamed of catching one hiding deep within her flowerbed. Whether you're interested in exploring the history and culture or just want to learn more about fairies' powers and trickery, you'll love plunging into the enchanting tales that bring these whimsical creatures to life.
Complete with hundreds of lovely illustrations, Fairies reveals the magnificent beauty of these mesmerizing sprites as well as their knack for causing mischief.
Around the corner, behind the bushes, and just out of sight...fairies have spent hundreds of years weaving their way in and out of our homes and gardens to spread their magic. Featuring folklore, mythology, and poetry from around the world, this lovely collection reveals these ethereal spirits' extraordinary powers and the history behind their existence. From the case of the Cottingley fairies in the early twentieth century, whose photographs fooled thousands (including Arthur Conan Doyle), to the mischievous fairies found in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream , the fascinating stories surrounding these magical sprites are sure to captivate anyone who has ever dreamed of catching one hiding deep within her flowerbed. Whether you're interested in exploring the history and culture or just want to learn more about fairies' powers and trickery, you'll love plunging into the enchanting tales that bring these whimsical creatures to life.
Complete with hundreds of lovely illustrations, Fairies reveals the magnificent beauty of these mesmerizing sprites as well as their knack for causing mischief.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published February 18, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
May 21, 2019
I'm stunned. I've actually found a book more scattered and error-laden than Mermaid Magic: Connecting with the Energy of the Ocean and the Healing Power of Water. I never thought it would happen.
This book is an utter disaster, and I say that with disappointment. I went into this positively, looking forward to reading it. I love faerie mythology and lore, and credit where credit's due: it's a really beautifully designed book! Too bad it's filled with bad research and fluffy made-up nonsense.
My doubts began when the author claimed that "some sources" (never named) claimed that air faeries or "sylphs" clean up chemtrails from the air. Yes, you read that right. Chemtrails. (Also, while we're here, sylphs are elemental spirits, originating from Paracelsus -- not faeries.)
So. I mean. Well. YEAH.
My doubts solidified into annoyance when I reached "[p]erhaps you've heard of the Irish selkies..." Long exhale. Firstly, selkies aren't Irish -- they're Scottish. I kind of wonder if author understands that Irish myth and Scottish myth aren't interchangable, and that they're actual separate cultures. The very word "selkie" is Scots, for crying out loud! Secondly? It takes about three seconds to Google this. To my utter frustration, the author kept referring to selkies as Irish for the remainder of the book.
Next up, I was told that "Japanese mths speak of a shapeshifting fox called a kitsune", and I just facepalmed. No. 'Kitsune' is merely the Japanese word for fox. There is no special word for shapeshifting foxes, because ALL foxes were believed to have that ability. They were considered a witch animal, essentially.
Again, this is Google-able info.
But oh, it went on and on. Did you know that the Moirae/Fates of Greek myth are faeries? And the Seven Hathors of late Ancient Egyptian myth! (No. No, they are not -- they're goddesses.)
Some more Celtic Culture Smushing, for good measure, a claim that Picts lived in Ireland as well as Scotland (they didn't; you're thinking of Gaels), and that Picts and pixies are related (no, they're not -- the linguistic link between "Pict" and "pixie" is shakier than a bellydancer on the San Andreas fault after an espresso shot). Oh, and did you know pixies help with housework? (No, they don't, unless you live in Dartmoor. You're thinking of brownies, which are, I might add, Scottish. Which is not Irish. Just, y'know. FYI.)
And on and on! Kelpies are "enchanted horses". Pooka are goblins. Disney's "The Princess and the Frog" came out in 1992. (How...how did that slip by the editor? ...was there an editor?)
Then the conflicting information about faeries (author never specifies which type) themselves. They'll help grant your wishes, but they don't understand human emotions. You can make them like you but they actually frickin' HATE humans to no end (yeah, all of them. Not just the Unseelie lot, ALL of them!).
When the author claimed that "modern" faeries enjoy eating "fairy bread', I actually started laughing from embarrassment and knew I had to DNF things or my head would explode. (For those who don't know: "fairy bread" is an Australian dessert served, largely, at children's birthday parties. So, tell me, does anyone know how the aos-sìth feel about Wizz Fizz?)
This is book is beyond awful. It's ill-researched garbage and I wasn't going to put myself through the rest of it if the first part was such disorganised false information that a five minute Google search could rectify. I'd give it zero stars if I could. Bloody hell.
This book is an utter disaster, and I say that with disappointment. I went into this positively, looking forward to reading it. I love faerie mythology and lore, and credit where credit's due: it's a really beautifully designed book! Too bad it's filled with bad research and fluffy made-up nonsense.
My doubts began when the author claimed that "some sources" (never named) claimed that air faeries or "sylphs" clean up chemtrails from the air. Yes, you read that right. Chemtrails. (Also, while we're here, sylphs are elemental spirits, originating from Paracelsus -- not faeries.)
So. I mean. Well. YEAH.
My doubts solidified into annoyance when I reached "[p]erhaps you've heard of the Irish selkies..." Long exhale. Firstly, selkies aren't Irish -- they're Scottish. I kind of wonder if author understands that Irish myth and Scottish myth aren't interchangable, and that they're actual separate cultures. The very word "selkie" is Scots, for crying out loud! Secondly? It takes about three seconds to Google this. To my utter frustration, the author kept referring to selkies as Irish for the remainder of the book.
Next up, I was told that "Japanese mths speak of a shapeshifting fox called a kitsune", and I just facepalmed. No. 'Kitsune' is merely the Japanese word for fox. There is no special word for shapeshifting foxes, because ALL foxes were believed to have that ability. They were considered a witch animal, essentially.
Again, this is Google-able info.
But oh, it went on and on. Did you know that the Moirae/Fates of Greek myth are faeries? And the Seven Hathors of late Ancient Egyptian myth! (No. No, they are not -- they're goddesses.)
Some more Celtic Culture Smushing, for good measure, a claim that Picts lived in Ireland as well as Scotland (they didn't; you're thinking of Gaels), and that Picts and pixies are related (no, they're not -- the linguistic link between "Pict" and "pixie" is shakier than a bellydancer on the San Andreas fault after an espresso shot). Oh, and did you know pixies help with housework? (No, they don't, unless you live in Dartmoor. You're thinking of brownies, which are, I might add, Scottish. Which is not Irish. Just, y'know. FYI.)
And on and on! Kelpies are "enchanted horses". Pooka are goblins. Disney's "The Princess and the Frog" came out in 1992. (How...how did that slip by the editor? ...was there an editor?)
Then the conflicting information about faeries (author never specifies which type) themselves. They'll help grant your wishes, but they don't understand human emotions. You can make them like you but they actually frickin' HATE humans to no end (yeah, all of them. Not just the Unseelie lot, ALL of them!).
When the author claimed that "modern" faeries enjoy eating "fairy bread', I actually started laughing from embarrassment and knew I had to DNF things or my head would explode. (For those who don't know: "fairy bread" is an Australian dessert served, largely, at children's birthday parties. So, tell me, does anyone know how the aos-sìth feel about Wizz Fizz?)
This is book is beyond awful. It's ill-researched garbage and I wasn't going to put myself through the rest of it if the first part was such disorganised false information that a five minute Google search could rectify. I'd give it zero stars if I could. Bloody hell.
June 7, 2014
OK, let me tell you about this book.
First of all, it is a good and interesting book. It offers lots of literature advice, which I love. I love fairies. I love mythology. The way Skye Alexander writes is cute and personal, it's a fun read. The book cover is incredibly pretty, too. So yeah, if you're interested in fairies, magical beings, folklore, mythology, spitits... anything magic really, you should definitely give it a shot.
But...
There is one chapter about the fairies of the British Isles. one about Ireland's fairies, one about northern Europe's fairies, one about southern Europe's fairies and one about eastern Europe's/Slavic fairies.
Then there is one chapter about the fairies of "Africa, Persia and the Middle East" which is a bit odd considering AFRICA IS A HUGE CONTINENT, much bigger than Europe and still it has to share chapter with Persia and the Middle East? Come on.
Of course there is almost no mention of fairies living any further south than "West Africa".
The chapter thereafter is about Australian and Asian fairies, which is also funny because once again, Asia is huge with loads of different people and cultures. One would also think that if northern Europe got its own chapter, the Aboriginals of Australia should too, right?
Another thing that bothered me was that every time Skye Alexander mentions a book or a movie (which she does a lot), referencing to the magical beings in said book or movie, she reveals the ending! Thanks, Alexander, thanks a lot.
But like I said, it was an interesting read and I will try to get my hands on her Mermaids: The Myths, Legends, and Lore soon too.
First of all, it is a good and interesting book. It offers lots of literature advice, which I love. I love fairies. I love mythology. The way Skye Alexander writes is cute and personal, it's a fun read. The book cover is incredibly pretty, too. So yeah, if you're interested in fairies, magical beings, folklore, mythology, spitits... anything magic really, you should definitely give it a shot.
But...
There is one chapter about the fairies of the British Isles. one about Ireland's fairies, one about northern Europe's fairies, one about southern Europe's fairies and one about eastern Europe's/Slavic fairies.
Then there is one chapter about the fairies of "Africa, Persia and the Middle East" which is a bit odd considering AFRICA IS A HUGE CONTINENT, much bigger than Europe and still it has to share chapter with Persia and the Middle East? Come on.
Of course there is almost no mention of fairies living any further south than "West Africa".
The chapter thereafter is about Australian and Asian fairies, which is also funny because once again, Asia is huge with loads of different people and cultures. One would also think that if northern Europe got its own chapter, the Aboriginals of Australia should too, right?
Another thing that bothered me was that every time Skye Alexander mentions a book or a movie (which she does a lot), referencing to the magical beings in said book or movie, she reveals the ending! Thanks, Alexander, thanks a lot.
But like I said, it was an interesting read and I will try to get my hands on her Mermaids: The Myths, Legends, and Lore soon too.
September 29, 2021
DNF at page 102
I guess it's fine, but the tone of the book rubs me the wrong way. The author clearly has a disdain for child-friendly fairies, which I personally didn't agree with. The book treats fairies seriously, as if they actually existed and were trying to clean up pollution and had preferences, but the tone is incredibly unprofessional. Are you trying to be scholarly or not? Pick one.
The book also has a heavy focus on European folklore, with little information on other countries. They mention 'spirit animals' at one point in reference to Native culture (like...do they think wyakin are fairies? what???).
The information presented felt surface level and dubious. Also, the book mentions that Disney's Princess and the Frog came out in 1992...except it didn't. It came out in 2009.
I also thought it was strange just how many creatures were included in the definition of 'fairy', but that could be a personal thing. I don't feel that I have a clear understanding on what a fairy is after reading this book, and I can't be bothered to finish it.
I guess it's fine, but the tone of the book rubs me the wrong way. The author clearly has a disdain for child-friendly fairies, which I personally didn't agree with. The book treats fairies seriously, as if they actually existed and were trying to clean up pollution and had preferences, but the tone is incredibly unprofessional. Are you trying to be scholarly or not? Pick one.
The book also has a heavy focus on European folklore, with little information on other countries. They mention 'spirit animals' at one point in reference to Native culture (like...do they think wyakin are fairies? what???).
The information presented felt surface level and dubious. Also, the book mentions that Disney's Princess and the Frog came out in 1992...except it didn't. It came out in 2009.
I also thought it was strange just how many creatures were included in the definition of 'fairy', but that could be a personal thing. I don't feel that I have a clear understanding on what a fairy is after reading this book, and I can't be bothered to finish it.
March 8, 2018
This is a fantastic resource for fantasy writers (or anyone obsessed with fairies). It offers a good breakdown of fairy lore on a broad level, then dives into specific countries' legends. It's really more like an encyclopedia, but it doesn't pretend to be anything different so it works.
My one question though, is why England, Ireland, Northern Europe and Southern Europe all had one chapter each while the entirety of Africa + the Middle East and the entirety of Asia + Australia were shoved into only two chapters?
Other than that, like I said a good reference for writers.
My one question though, is why England, Ireland, Northern Europe and Southern Europe all had one chapter each while the entirety of Africa + the Middle East and the entirety of Asia + Australia were shoved into only two chapters?
Other than that, like I said a good reference for writers.
January 26, 2018
This book looks small but is actually pretty dense, since it’s basically a small encyclopedia detailing fairies and how they are represented, over time, in each region of the world and culture. I enjoyed it, but it took forever to read because if you are unfamiliar with most of the terms [I was], reading more than a page or two at a time could cause it to all run together. That being said, it’s a great collection, but one I feel mainly benefits a) fantasy writers, or b) someone who REALLY loves fairy tales.
February 18, 2018
This book was very inspiring and such a great introduction to fairies around the world. I loved that the author wrote like she was presenting facts about fairies that are real, I felt almost as if I was reading an essay on all of her research, which was great. The authors writing style was very accessible and amusing at times which made it a nice read. I also loved the illustrations throughout the book.
I would have given this book 5 stars but I felt like it focused a little too much on European fairies and talking about fairies in TV/books - but that’s just my own preference. I learned a lot from this book and can’t wait to read her others!
I would have given this book 5 stars but I felt like it focused a little too much on European fairies and talking about fairies in TV/books - but that’s just my own preference. I learned a lot from this book and can’t wait to read her others!
February 10, 2020
The aesthetic of this book is what I want to be in life. The violet toned print. The type face. The rough page edges. The illustrations (which I recognised some of the Ida Rentoul Outhwaite works). The cover. The whole lotta everything.
The aesthetic is mint okay. I am about it.
The content is also good.
Divided into two parts, the first is a general overview of the fey while the second, more in depth part is a brief look at folk tales from around the world. Their similarities and differences are fascinating between cultures. And one of the great things about this book is its wide net that's cast beyond the usual European stories we are familiar with. While not a complete guide, it certainly provides possible further reading.
The aesthetic is mint okay. I am about it.
The content is also good.
Divided into two parts, the first is a general overview of the fey while the second, more in depth part is a brief look at folk tales from around the world. Their similarities and differences are fascinating between cultures. And one of the great things about this book is its wide net that's cast beyond the usual European stories we are familiar with. While not a complete guide, it certainly provides possible further reading.
June 25, 2023
It took me forever to get through this book as it’s compiled of short snippets rather than a long narrative, but I enjoyed a lot of the content. The Cowherd and the Weaver Girl, Baba Yaga, and Ozma of Oz were some of my favorite fairytale descriptions, and I liked learning about the similar concepts of elemental fairies from different cultures. The author’s tone was a little annoying sometimes, I enjoyed that they wrote as if they were sharing facts, but their opinions were glaringly obvious at some points, which I found unnecessary. Overall, a fun read for spring/summer.
September 25, 2024
4.5 stars
This was just so charming and heartwarming! First of all the aesthetics are UNMATCHED. The purple font color, the illustrations, and cute little story boxes just made this a blast to read. I can’t speak on the accuracy or anything of these facts (I know she got the release date for the movie The Princess and the Frog way wrong. Not 1992, it was 2009 lol) but for someone who doesn’t know any fairy mythology, this was informative, easy to read, and magical. I have already bought her Mermaid book, and the Unicorn book is next. These will be GORGEOUS on a shelf together!
This was just so charming and heartwarming! First of all the aesthetics are UNMATCHED. The purple font color, the illustrations, and cute little story boxes just made this a blast to read. I can’t speak on the accuracy or anything of these facts (I know she got the release date for the movie The Princess and the Frog way wrong. Not 1992, it was 2009 lol) but for someone who doesn’t know any fairy mythology, this was informative, easy to read, and magical. I have already bought her Mermaid book, and the Unicorn book is next. These will be GORGEOUS on a shelf together!
January 23, 2020
I've had this book borrowed from Kindle Unlimited for a few months, but I never found the time to read it. As you all by now should know, I love Faeries. I've fallen in love with many mythical creatures, but faeries have always had a special place in my heart. Since I started #FaeFriday, I figured it was time to brush up on my faery facts, which is surprisingly nonexistent.
This book will be perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about faeries and fairytales. I have to admit, I wanted more focus on the fae and not on all of the fairytales. Yes, it was fascinating, but at times it felt that the author ran out of things to say on the fair folk.
Though the content was thorough, I wish this book didn't feel like a chore to read. At times I had to remind myself that I was reading this for pleasure and not for a class. It truly read like a textbook. I appreciated that there were citations, and I'm looking forward to diving into some of the sources she referenced.
Ultimately, if you're looking for a textbook on fairies and fairytales, this might be a good fit.
This book will be perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about faeries and fairytales. I have to admit, I wanted more focus on the fae and not on all of the fairytales. Yes, it was fascinating, but at times it felt that the author ran out of things to say on the fair folk.
Though the content was thorough, I wish this book didn't feel like a chore to read. At times I had to remind myself that I was reading this for pleasure and not for a class. It truly read like a textbook. I appreciated that there were citations, and I'm looking forward to diving into some of the sources she referenced.
Ultimately, if you're looking for a textbook on fairies and fairytales, this might be a good fit.
July 31, 2023
This book was a very interesting read! It delved into the history of fairy tales and gave notes of extra information surrounding each chapter with I loved. It also covered a very wide variety of fairies. At times I wish it went a little deeper, as sometimes the author assumed you knew what they were talking about without prefacing what fairy was being discussed.
January 10, 2025
i enjoyed this read quite a lot. as someone who believes in fairies, i really liked learning much more about them. it's also a very pretty book which i appreciate. i found myself a bit weary at some parts simply because it repeated itself with the same sort of phrases, but that's really my only complaint.
November 7, 2024
A cute, thoughtful and informative encyclopaedia of Fairies from around the world. I found the dive into ancient folklore and mythology from all over especially interesting. You don't hear much about African myths in modern life and I appreciated learning more about them!
June 25, 2019
This has been a very interesting book. I adore folktales, fairytales, myths and legends… but I’ve never read a non-fiction book about any of it.
The book is divided in two parts, one part about the history of fairies and the other about fairies all around the world. You’d think that the history part would be my favourite, but unfortunately it wasn’t. The first part was a bit slow, and the second part wasn’t long enough and way too Europeancentric. It would’ve been interesting to read more about African fairies, or Asian fairies, but they had very short chapters whereas certain European areas had whole chapters dedicated for them. Mind you, the Netherlands wasn’t mentioned either, which was a shame because we have a rich unknown fairytale-esque history.
In every chapter there was a little story about a person or persons who have encounters with fairies themselves.
All in all, it wasn’t a bad book. I enjoyed it, it was greatly written and the topic was highly interesting, it’s just a shame it was so European and American centric!
The book is divided in two parts, one part about the history of fairies and the other about fairies all around the world. You’d think that the history part would be my favourite, but unfortunately it wasn’t. The first part was a bit slow, and the second part wasn’t long enough and way too Europeancentric. It would’ve been interesting to read more about African fairies, or Asian fairies, but they had very short chapters whereas certain European areas had whole chapters dedicated for them. Mind you, the Netherlands wasn’t mentioned either, which was a shame because we have a rich unknown fairytale-esque history.
In every chapter there was a little story about a person or persons who have encounters with fairies themselves.
All in all, it wasn’t a bad book. I enjoyed it, it was greatly written and the topic was highly interesting, it’s just a shame it was so European and American centric!
October 3, 2014
Wonderful incite into the complex and mysterious world of the Fey. To those who wish to know more about this mystical realm, this book is highly recommended.
October 21, 2019
They are the hidden children of Adam and Eve. They are the minions of Lucifer fallen from Heaven into this terrestrial world when the gate was being closed by the Archangels at the time of the great celestial rebellion. No wonder they are neither good nor evil, although their amorality is felt more akin to treachery and terror to our mortal sense and sensibility. The ancient Greeks called them nymphs, and we call them fairies, frolicking and romping, feasting and dancing deliriously in their own fanciful realm: the slice of seacoast between tides, the deepening foliage between field and forest, and the sloping land between plain and mountain – a parallel universe existent in in their liminal four-dimensional world. Skye Alexander’s Fairies: The Myths, Legends, and Lore tells us all of it with her wealth of knowledge and introspection of these mystical beings as though it were her literary enchantment.
The ambiguous nature of fairies endows the mystical folk with wonder and terror, glamour and danger, all in the veil of mysterious invisibility that has protected them since the time immemorial. They can be friends or foes, depending upon their moods. In fact, fairies have a status which fuses the capricious powers of demoted deities with the erotic charge of modern celebrity in the kingdom of myth and folklore. So much so that they have consistently appeared in literature and movies, such as ‘The Fairy Queen’ by Edmund Spencer, ‘A midsummer night’s dream’ by William Shakespeare, ‘Rip Van Winkle’ by Washington Irving, and ‘Peter Pan’ by Walt Disney. Unlike educated Christianity of angels and demons, these mystical celebrities have lived among humans because they embody our certain human traits, which are the good and the bad, and wishes that we cherish secretly to live better life. Take the case of glamour spells that will make a plain-looking lady beautiful to impress the onlookers in a favorable light. Fairies are the embodiment of our what-ifs in a land of imagination where our strains of existential life can be forgotten, if not eradicated. This also relates to historian Keith Thomas’s analysis of myth and magic as a mental analgesic. That the concept itself can account for such misfortune explains any conspicuous discrepancy between merit and reward and thus helps to reconcile anyone who believes it to the environment in which he lives. That is, it helps a man to take decisions when other agencies fail him, not jeopardizing his self-esteem because it does not relate existential dilemma to his ascribed social ranks and conditions.
Changelings, Sleeping Beauty, Pixies, Brownies, Elves, Dwarfs, Selkies, Leprechauns, and Tinker Bell come alive pages upon pages of this enchanted book in an expense of the author’s charmingly kind guide to Fairyland we all have once believed. Since writing is also a peculiar alchemy of literature, this book is a magical concoction of the author’s knowledge of fairies and her alluring invitation to the liminal netherworld that will make the read even more enjoyable and lovable. Believers or unbelievers, this book is a good primer for the world of folklore and myths that we feel losing or lost.
The ambiguous nature of fairies endows the mystical folk with wonder and terror, glamour and danger, all in the veil of mysterious invisibility that has protected them since the time immemorial. They can be friends or foes, depending upon their moods. In fact, fairies have a status which fuses the capricious powers of demoted deities with the erotic charge of modern celebrity in the kingdom of myth and folklore. So much so that they have consistently appeared in literature and movies, such as ‘The Fairy Queen’ by Edmund Spencer, ‘A midsummer night’s dream’ by William Shakespeare, ‘Rip Van Winkle’ by Washington Irving, and ‘Peter Pan’ by Walt Disney. Unlike educated Christianity of angels and demons, these mystical celebrities have lived among humans because they embody our certain human traits, which are the good and the bad, and wishes that we cherish secretly to live better life. Take the case of glamour spells that will make a plain-looking lady beautiful to impress the onlookers in a favorable light. Fairies are the embodiment of our what-ifs in a land of imagination where our strains of existential life can be forgotten, if not eradicated. This also relates to historian Keith Thomas’s analysis of myth and magic as a mental analgesic. That the concept itself can account for such misfortune explains any conspicuous discrepancy between merit and reward and thus helps to reconcile anyone who believes it to the environment in which he lives. That is, it helps a man to take decisions when other agencies fail him, not jeopardizing his self-esteem because it does not relate existential dilemma to his ascribed social ranks and conditions.
Changelings, Sleeping Beauty, Pixies, Brownies, Elves, Dwarfs, Selkies, Leprechauns, and Tinker Bell come alive pages upon pages of this enchanted book in an expense of the author’s charmingly kind guide to Fairyland we all have once believed. Since writing is also a peculiar alchemy of literature, this book is a magical concoction of the author’s knowledge of fairies and her alluring invitation to the liminal netherworld that will make the read even more enjoyable and lovable. Believers or unbelievers, this book is a good primer for the world of folklore and myths that we feel losing or lost.
July 28, 2021
Yes, I bought and read a book about the legend of fairies.
Did I enjoy it?? Immensely.
Not surprisingly, I did know a good bit of the fairies mentioned in this book cause I happen to read a good deal of fantasy or paranormal that involves fairies, but it was nice to learn their back stories, how they originated, and how they’ve changed in the modern era.
This book discusses fairies from around the world! From anywhere in Europe to Asia and Australia to Africa and Persia and many other cultures. They each have their own versions of myths and legends of fairies, some similar to others and some are all their own.
It’s also very easy to see where authors got their inspiration from when writing books about the fae.
For example,
The story of Tam Lin a knight who was captured by a fairy queen reminded me a bit of Tamlin, not just in name.
The Iron Fey series by Julie Kagawa is especially filled with Fairy lore, from Tir na nog, to the seelie and unseelie courts, to queen Man to the Sidhe, and SO much more. This book will definitely show you where just about everything in the Iron Fey series originated and which culture it originated from.
Other books/movies such as Disney’s Tinker Bell, Peter Pan, Narnia, Lord of the Rings/The Hobbit, some aspects of Harry Potter, and some aspects of Percy Jackson are all talked about in this book.
The most frighting fairy in this book in my opinion is the Baba Yaga from Russian folklore. Think of the Weaver in the ACOTAR series.
I could go on and on because there’s so much fascinating information in this book about the fairytales we all know and love. I would highly recommend picking it up for yourselves and giving it a read!
Did I enjoy it?? Immensely.
Not surprisingly, I did know a good bit of the fairies mentioned in this book cause I happen to read a good deal of fantasy or paranormal that involves fairies, but it was nice to learn their back stories, how they originated, and how they’ve changed in the modern era.
This book discusses fairies from around the world! From anywhere in Europe to Asia and Australia to Africa and Persia and many other cultures. They each have their own versions of myths and legends of fairies, some similar to others and some are all their own.
It’s also very easy to see where authors got their inspiration from when writing books about the fae.
For example,
The story of Tam Lin a knight who was captured by a fairy queen reminded me a bit of Tamlin, not just in name.
The Iron Fey series by Julie Kagawa is especially filled with Fairy lore, from Tir na nog, to the seelie and unseelie courts, to queen Man to the Sidhe, and SO much more. This book will definitely show you where just about everything in the Iron Fey series originated and which culture it originated from.
Other books/movies such as Disney’s Tinker Bell, Peter Pan, Narnia, Lord of the Rings/The Hobbit, some aspects of Harry Potter, and some aspects of Percy Jackson are all talked about in this book.
The most frighting fairy in this book in my opinion is the Baba Yaga from Russian folklore. Think of the Weaver in the ACOTAR series.
I could go on and on because there’s so much fascinating information in this book about the fairytales we all know and love. I would highly recommend picking it up for yourselves and giving it a read!
January 8, 2025
2.75, but that's a little generous.
Not only did the author literally use modern-day FANTASY books as sources, but they couldn't even stay on topic.
The book is advertised to be about fairies, right? so tell me why over half the book was about fairytales like the little mermaid and stuff that don't even mention fairies.
The author also has the weirdest definition of a fairy that's hard to follow. I get maybe reffering to nature spirits/entities (ex: nymphs, dryads) as fairies aswell but they literally basically call every non-deity entity a fairy when they're not even close to being one. For example, she refers to nagas as fairies when they're their own separate thing like?? and there's worse than that, too. I just can't think of examples right now.
The book was also very white-centric, focusing mostly on europe. Which I sort of get because when I think fairy, I also think of Europe. However, the author repeatedly states that they don't like the modern interpretations of fairies, so why wouldn't they go more in-depth on those that people may not know about and change their perspective?
I do think the book deserves at least this rating because when the author did decide to be on topic, it was interesting, at least. even if some bits of it were poorly researched. I also found the fairy sighting bits scattered throughout to be interesting.
Not only did the author literally use modern-day FANTASY books as sources, but they couldn't even stay on topic.
The book is advertised to be about fairies, right? so tell me why over half the book was about fairytales like the little mermaid and stuff that don't even mention fairies.
The author also has the weirdest definition of a fairy that's hard to follow. I get maybe reffering to nature spirits/entities (ex: nymphs, dryads) as fairies aswell but they literally basically call every non-deity entity a fairy when they're not even close to being one. For example, she refers to nagas as fairies when they're their own separate thing like?? and there's worse than that, too. I just can't think of examples right now.
The book was also very white-centric, focusing mostly on europe. Which I sort of get because when I think fairy, I also think of Europe. However, the author repeatedly states that they don't like the modern interpretations of fairies, so why wouldn't they go more in-depth on those that people may not know about and change their perspective?
I do think the book deserves at least this rating because when the author did decide to be on topic, it was interesting, at least. even if some bits of it were poorly researched. I also found the fairy sighting bits scattered throughout to be interesting.
November 28, 2019
This book gave me everything I wanted. Mythology 101 without overloading my mind. The author gave fun quips and anecdotes. She had a show, don't tell approach, where her opinions didn't bog down the book. Rather, she presented the historical view of fairies from region to region across Europe (and eventually the earth). And let's the reader judge.
I think the book is summed up best on the Scotland section. I learned that in Scotland, fairies are put in to two categories by Scottish region. "Seelie" and "Unseelie". Good, and bad. Remember to stay protected when exploring god's universe, but in the meantime let's have some fun and learn from someone who has written 30 other books.
Author was professional and fun.
I think the book is summed up best on the Scotland section. I learned that in Scotland, fairies are put in to two categories by Scottish region. "Seelie" and "Unseelie". Good, and bad. Remember to stay protected when exploring god's universe, but in the meantime let's have some fun and learn from someone who has written 30 other books.
Author was professional and fun.
January 1, 2022
*2.5
I think this was more useful in terms of all the content referenced than the content the author actually wrote herself. It was also pretty basic and more useful as a starting point to bounce off of than having anything new, especially as it has a lot more focus on European folklore and fairy tales than other places.
The author also framed any mythical being as being fairies which was...a Choice. Honestly, I'm kind of glad it was focused a lot more on European myths because framing to creatures from other culture's mythologies/folklore as all just being 'fairies' felt ignorant at best. But again, I'd say this is more of a book to bounce off of into more detailed pieces about what was presented than to actually take it too seriously.
I think this was more useful in terms of all the content referenced than the content the author actually wrote herself. It was also pretty basic and more useful as a starting point to bounce off of than having anything new, especially as it has a lot more focus on European folklore and fairy tales than other places.
The author also framed any mythical being as being fairies which was...a Choice. Honestly, I'm kind of glad it was focused a lot more on European myths because framing to creatures from other culture's mythologies/folklore as all just being 'fairies' felt ignorant at best. But again, I'd say this is more of a book to bounce off of into more detailed pieces about what was presented than to actually take it too seriously.
January 2, 2018
A gorgeous book. Visually beautiful and looks smart on a bookshelf. Content wise, I felt this book was repetitive and all over the place.
I’d rather the author had spent more time focusing on different fairies in folklore instead of pop culture. The date given for Disney’s The Princess and Frog is wrong, and being early on in the book, it made me question the research and accuracy for the rest of the book. Personally, as a collector of faery and folklore, this book didn’t meet my expectations, but I think it’s a nice beginner book to wet one’s appetite. I much preferred the author’s book on Mermaids to this one.
I’d rather the author had spent more time focusing on different fairies in folklore instead of pop culture. The date given for Disney’s The Princess and Frog is wrong, and being early on in the book, it made me question the research and accuracy for the rest of the book. Personally, as a collector of faery and folklore, this book didn’t meet my expectations, but I think it’s a nice beginner book to wet one’s appetite. I much preferred the author’s book on Mermaids to this one.
June 17, 2023
I love the books in The Myths, Legends, & Lore Series by this author. It is the only author I read from in this series. It explained fairies in different ways than just the elemental ways. I knew there was different categories of fairies before, but I did not understand it till now. Of course it talks more about fairies than just categories. It talked about how Faries acted, people's sightings, the theories about who fairies are ect. Lovely book. If you like this book or are interested, I would read the books she wrote in this series. They have the same names, but instead of Fairies, it is Mermaids and the other Unicorns.
January 25, 2022
3.5 stars. Read this book to learn more about Fairy mythology as Faeries (Fae) are quite popular in fantasy atm. I also love fairies and used to have a fairy garden in my childhood haha. The book has some good nuggets of fairy myths, but I wasn't expecting most of the book to be about the belief in fairies and how to look for them. :D The author shares mini vignettes of fairy spottings. Good for fairy stans! lol! Overall, the book cover and torn edges are beautiful, but looking elsewhere for more mythology.
June 28, 2018
very basic good starting point if looking to explore fairy tales and fairy creatures- author missed exploring the Icelandic conception of trolls + author missed the translations for the word dwarf in different languages - she separated them out without realizing that they were the same thing- shows her need to explore linguistics (i.e. language links) and do a better job on her research. But overall is an okay and quick read.
January 23, 2019
This book was an enjoyable read with some interesting and varied information about fairies and mythology from around the world. The cover and layout is very cute and pretty and the writing style is fun and easygoing. The only thing I would say is that I would have liked a little more in depth look at the mythology and folk tales as opposed to all the information about fairy references in pop culture/books/films etc.
February 11, 2021
This is a great resource for fantasy writers and faerie lovers alike. It breaks down into fairy lore on a broad level, then tells about specific countries' legends. I loved that the author wrote like she was presenting facts about fairies that are real—it was reassuring in a way. Very informative and professional, I felt like I was doing research when I was reading, not just reading a fun book about faeries. Will definitely refer to in the future.
February 5, 2018
Great little book, this helped me to gain some brief insight for some research for a fiction novel i am writing.
It is perfect as a base, and now i know where i can go and extend my knowledge or what to search for. In the back of the book is an index and some website sources for more on this subject.
It is perfect as a base, and now i know where i can go and extend my knowledge or what to search for. In the back of the book is an index and some website sources for more on this subject.
May 22, 2022
good summary
Seems to be a pretty good summary and overview. Seems in places to extend the term a little too widely. Not everything nonhuman in mythology is a fairy. Or at least so I thought. The notion of fairy realms and portals is strangely universal and deeply numinous. Why is this so.
Seems to be a pretty good summary and overview. Seems in places to extend the term a little too widely. Not everything nonhuman in mythology is a fairy. Or at least so I thought. The notion of fairy realms and portals is strangely universal and deeply numinous. Why is this so.
March 28, 2018
I liked this more than Skye Alexander's Mermaid edition of this series. Fairies was a lot less repetitive and more informing than Mermaids. I ended up giving this 4 or 3.5 stars if we're getting real specific.
January 28, 2019
I throughly enjoyed this book !
It was a break from the stories but to learn about the mysteries of the fairy universe as how the tales have evolved especially in different cultures and parts of the world!
It was a break from the stories but to learn about the mysteries of the fairy universe as how the tales have evolved especially in different cultures and parts of the world!
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