Tales for the Brave: Heroes and Heroines, Gods and Ghosts

‘Tales from the Brave’ is a wonderful collection of myths from Ireland, Cornwall, Scotland, Wales, Brittany and the Isle of Man. On the eve of Samhain, a druidess and a file (a poet) come together to light a bonfire on a hillside. Settled by the fire, they feel the presence of the other-worldly spirits who come to share their stories. As each figure emerges from the darkness into the firelight, they tell their tale. As the last of the visitors leaves, the druidess and the file leave the hill, taking the ancient stories with them as gifts to any who will listen - and take heed to the wisdom they offer.

Each story is vividly illustrated by three Irish artists whose talents create the perfect atmosphere for each tale. The front endpapers show the druidess and her companion arriving on the hill, with the sunset full of magical creatures whilst the closing papers show them leaving with figures from the tales looking down from the skies. The pages and their numbers are edged with patterns which remind the reader of their connection with the natural world and the stories Celtic origins.

The author’s note speaks of a love of stories and storytelling which connects us to our ancestors and this collection is sure to pass that love on to those who read the tales contained here. Full of magic and mystery, wisdom and wonder, they are perfect for sharing and retelling for generations into the future just as they have come to us from the past.

Tales of the Brave: Heroes and Heroines, Gods and Ghosts

Rachel Pierce, illustrated by Béibhínn McCarthy, Lauren O’Neill and Louise Dukes

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702325557