Folklore studies / Study of myth Books

Book Synopsis''THE MOST FRIGHTENING NOVEL OF THE YEAR'' Esquire''OLD-SCHOOL HORROR'' Stephen King The Exorcist meets Lord of the Flies, by way of Midnight Mass, Boys in the Valley is a chilling folk horror set in a remote orphanage in turn of the century Pennsylvania.St. Vincent''s Orphanage for Boys. Turn of the century, in a remote valley in Pennsylvania. Here, under the watchful eyes of several priests, thirty boys work, learn, and worship. Peter Barlow, orphaned as a child by a gruesome murder, has made a new life here. As he approaches adulthood, he has friends, a future. . . a family. Then, late one stormy night, a group of men arrive at their door, one of whom is badly wounded, occult symbols carved into his flesh. His death releases an ancient evil that spreads like sickness, infecting St. Vincent''s and the children within. Soon, boys begin acting differently, forming groups. Taking Trade ReviewFracassi makes terror read so damn beautifully -- Victor LaValleFracassi. . . builds his horrific tales slowly and carefully...he's especially skilful at creating, and sustaining, suspense -- THE NEW YORK TIMESGut-wrenching, heart breaking, and terrifying -- Andy Davidson, author of THE BOATMAN'S DAUGHTERHorror readers will be hooked -- PUBLISHERS WEEKLYFracassi. . . brings a depth of understanding to his monsters, human and otherwise -- GuardianFracassi's storytelling is. . . horror with a big, broken heart -- EsquireHis range, prolific output, and fast-paced prose are all set to put him on the shelf next to names such as King, Straub, and Thomas Harris -- Signal HorizonA riveting, and horrifying, tale of survival set against a punishing and vivid backdrop -- Victor LaValle, on BOYS IN THE VALLEYThe terror's exquisite. Fracassi's got his hand on the chisel going into your chest -- Stephen Graham Jones, author of THE ONLY GOOD INDIANSA smart and deftly-written tale instilled with the kind of creeping, claustrophobic horror I enjoy -- Nick Cutter, author of THE TROOPAn unrelenting and highly entertaining show of horrors -- Thomas Olde Heuvelt, author of HEXAs poignant as it is chilling, with a fast-paced, unflinching ending -- Alma Katsu, author of THE HUNGERHarrowing and claustrophobic, Boys in the Valley is an outstanding horror novel -- Christopher Golden, author of ROAD OF BONESThe most unsettling novel I have read all year. Cold dread clings to every page -- Ronald Malfi, author of BLACK MOUTH

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Book SynopsisMonsters have preoccupied mankind from the earliest times: even cave art includes animal-human monsters. This book explores monsters down the ages and throughout the world. It provides a dark yet engrossing visual history of the human mind, lit up by flashes of wild and unearthly inspiration.Trade Review'This nightmarish bestiary is sure to stir the bloodthirsty imaginations of nice boys and girls everywhere' - V&A Magazine'A mis-matched zoo of mind-boggling creations from minotaurs through golems to mermaids, from sphinxes to sirens and shapeshifting nightmares … takes us to the edge of the cultural map' - The TimesTable of ContentsIntroduction • Gods and Monsters • Devils and Demons • Magical Monsters • Dragons and Flying Monsters • Water Monsters • Transformations and Hybrids • Ghosts and Ghouls • Monsters of Folklore • How to Fight Monsters • Off the Edge of the Map

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Book SynopsisThis beautiful illustrated book is the result of eight years exhaustive research into the myths, magic and healing power of trees.It has comprehensive information on all the main species of tree and written in an easy to use and accessible style by an Arch-druidess.This book contains all the practical information you need to identify each tree as it changes throughout the year and includes:comprehensive physical and descriptions and botanical informationthe legends and myths surrounding each treethe healing powers and magical properties of the individual tree

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Book SynopsisAnd you thought unicorns were fabulous? Well, of course they are, but did you know how many other weird and wonderful mythical beasts are out there waiting to be discovered?From dragons and wyverns to vampires, werewolves and mischievous gremlins, pixies and fairies, Breverton''s Phantasmagoria is a unique compendium of over 250 mythical animals. Prepare to revisit familiar myths, such as vampires, werewolves and the Loch Ness Monster, the Minotaur and Medusa from Greek legend, and Biblical beasts such as Behemoth and Leviathan. Discover new mysterious animals like the giant serpents of Central America, the lethal Mongolian death worm, and the Ennedi tiger in Africa, and investigate the evidence for sightings of Bigfoot and the reclusive Yeti. Packed with quirky line illustrations and a wealth of weird and wonderful information, Breverton''s Phantasmagoria surveys the globe to uncover over 250 imaginary creatures passed down from generation to generatTrade Review'A quirky compendium of the weird and wonderful creations immortalised by legend, a vast cornucopia of curiosities, entreating' Good Book Guide. * Good Book Guide *Table of ContentsIntroduction. Mysterious, Magical and Weird People. Mythical Monsters, Ghosts and Things That Go Bump in the Night. Magical Places of Legend and Reality. Flying Monsters, Mysteries, Odd Happenings, Strange Sightings and Legends. Mysteries of the Deep. Strange Artefacts, Buildings, Maps and Writings. Tales of Secret Treasure. The Reality of Legends and Myths. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisThe Irish have a close connection with the land and nature. This book brings us through the Irish seasons and the customs that welcomed each one in turn. From Samhain to Imbolc, to Bealtaine and to Lunasa, it examines the significance of, andlegends associated with, this annual cycle.

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Book SynopsisEvery good hero needs a villain! Explore the hidden world of magnetic and mysterious villains, often cast aside and misunderstood in tales of mythology and folklore. Through the pages of Queer Villains of Myth and Legend, discover a diverse community of fascinating characters, ranging from seductive and cunning to powerful and awe-inspiring.Experience the dark allure of Circe and Medusa through to David Bowie's Jareth in Labyrinth and delve into their complex and multifaceted personalities and motivations. Take a deep dive into the intersection of queerness and villainy, re-examine some of our favourite characters, and discover why so many 'bad' characters are queer-coded. From ancient mythology to contemporary pop culture, Queer Villains of Myth and Legend celebrates the fascinating stories of these often-overlooked characters. Join Dan Jones on a journey of discovery, as he explores the hidden depths of queer villainy and sheds light on the queer identities of these compelling figures. It's a powerful celebration of queerness through the ages in all its legendary complexity.

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Book SynopsisFew classical stories are as romantic as that of Jason and the Golden Fleece. The stirring tale of an adventurer who was also a disenfranchised king's son and daring sea-captain has resonated through the ages, rumbling and echoing like the clashing rocks which almost pulverised the doughty Argo to splinters. The themes of the legend are perennial, and endlessly engaging. For even while it tells of a quest to the ends of the earth, of the villainous usurper King Pelias, of dragons' teeth, of the doom of Hylas (beloved friend to Heracles), ravished to his end by nymphs who greatly desired him for his beauty, and of Jason's lust for the witch Medea (betrayed so that he might wed another), it speaks to us of more: of sex and gender; of identity and race; and, of colonisation and conquest. From Pindar to J W Waterhouse, from Max Beckmann to Ray Harryhausen and from Mary Renault to Ian Seraillier, the epic poem of "Apollonius of Rhodes" has inspired later interpretations as rich, salty and diverse as the source text itself. Helen Lovatt here unravels, like untangled sea-kelp, the diverse strands of the narrative and its numerous and fascinating afterlives. Her book will prove endlessly entertaining to those who love classical literature and myth.Trade ReviewThis book, the outgrowth of a college course, is an ambitious project, meticulously researched and rich in detail, a tour de force that brings to bear well over the 57 literary works, children’s books, comics and films. * The Classical Review *In Search of the Argonauts draws a vivid treasure map to follow the Argonaut story wherever it lands – from ancient epics to modern children’s books to contemporary film and television. On this journey, Lovatt uncovers rich veins of meaning about heroism, masculinity, and leadership stowed within the various adaptations of the Argonaut tradition. -- Monica S. Cyrino, Professor of Classics, University of New Mexico USAThis is a wide-ranging study of many different versions of the Argonautic myth from antiquity to the present and in a broad range of media: poetry, novels, paintings, films. Lovatt skillfully shows how various retellings of the story bring out important issues, especially those concerned with gender and ethnicity, and shows the myth’s centrality in many stages of western culture. -- William Thalmann, Professor Emeritus of Classics and Comparative Literature, University of Southern California, USATable of ContentsList of Illustrations Versions, Texts and Abbreviations Acknowledgements Chapter 1: Back-stories and Beginnings Chapter 2: Femininity and Sexuality Chapter 3: Masculinity and Leadership Chapter 4: Entertainment and the Marvellous Chapter 5: Ethnicity and Otherness Chapter 6: Heroism and Betrayal Chapter 7: Quest and Fleece Chapter 8: Findings and Endings Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisWhy does Mulla Nasruddin spoon yoghurt into the river? What is the reason he rides his donkey backwards? Why does he paint a picture that is blank? And is he crazy to move into the house of the man who's just burgled him? Find out all about the amazing antics of Nasruddin in these twenty-one hilarious stories and riddles, famous throughout the Middle East for their jokes, riddles and wisdom.Trade Review"Written in a lively, fresh and accessible style, bridging the east and west, the old & new. The book’s backstory is also inspiring..." * Muslim Vibe *"Muslim culture is portrayed in its richness without the text feeling like a cultural studies project, and the sheer warmth and playfulness of each little vignette gives an insight into the common ground in all cultures that humour breaks. Children and adults will find themselves laughing out loud at the Mulla’s antics. Highly recommended." * INIS *"Sumptuous...It's a collection of 21 tales and riddles about a trickster known across Muslim culture. The text feels modern, but the illustrations feel traditional. They are bright and welcoming, playful and intelligent." * Minerva Reads *"Full of brilliant humour and amazing papercut illustrations, it's a real treat!" * Read It, Daddy *"Jokes, riddles and wisdom in a riotous collection of classic tales starring a popular character from the Islamic world. Khayall Theatre is an award-winning company dedicated to the exploration of Muslim literature for stage, radio and screen." * The Bookseller *"They’re just right for classroom use across a wide age range as well as great to share as a family. The tellings are enormous fun and Shirin Adl’s humorous collage illustrations an absolute delight; don’t miss the splendid Islamic tessellation style endpapers." * Red Reading Hub *

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Book Synopsis Learn the myths and legends behind this beloved goddess plus practices and suggestions for making Hekate part of your spiritual path. Courtney Weber (author of Brigid and The Morrigan) offers an informed, accessible journey through the lore and history of Hekate, the ancient goddess of crossroads, ghosts, and witchcraft, and reflects on Hekate?s relevance today. Tools and techniques for incorporating this goddess into your personal journey round out the book. Similar to her other works, Weber strikes a balance between the scholarly and the spiritual. Her exploration of Hekate combines solid research with practical, modern applications. The spiritual content is accessible to anyone with an interest in witchcraft, regardless of their faith or background. Each chapter focuses on a different aspect of Hekate, exploring original mythology, historical context, and contemporary connotations, concluding with spells and personal rituals. The final chapter is a grimoire full of rituals, offerings, and other practices designed to help readers align themselves with this extraordinary goddess. The book also explores magickal ethics, what it means to be a witch in the twenty-first century, and best practices for successful witchcraft.

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Book SynopsisDiscover over 30 intricate artworks to colour in, from the brilliant mind of artist Duchess of Lore. With subjects inspired by the occult, myth, legend and folklore, readers will find beautiful line drawings of Gaelic goddesses, astrological signs and tarot images, pagan symbols, ancient Greek gods, magical motifs and much more.Let your imagination roam, find a mindful escape and create your own beautiful, colourful artworks with The Occult & Folklore Colouring Book.

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Book SynopsisFairytales are one of our earliest and most vital cultural forms, and forests one of our most ancient landscapes. Both evoke a similar sensation in us - we find them beautiful and magical, but also spooky, sometimes horrifying. In this fascinating book, Maitland argues that the two forms are intimately connected: the mysterious secrets and silences, gifts and perils of the forests were both the background and the source of the fairytales made famous by the Grimms and Hans Christian Andersen. Yet both forests and fairy stories are at risk and their loss deprives us of our cultural lifeblood. Maitland visits forests through the seasons, from the exquisite green of a beechwood in spring, to the muffled stillness of a snowy pine wood in winter. She camps with her son Adam, whose beautiful photographs are included in the book; she takes a barefoot walk through Epping Forest with Robert Macfarlane; she walks with a mushroom expert through an oak wood, and with a miner through the Forest of Dean. Maitland ends each chapter with a unique, imaginitive re-telling of a fairytale. Written with Maitland's wonderful clarity and conversational grace, Gossip from the Forest is a magical and unique blend of nature writing, history and imaginative fiction.

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Book Synopsis• Describes the arcane rituals, ancient beliefs, and secret rites of the Welsh Marches, including those of the Sin Eaters, Eye Biters, and Spirit Hunters • Includes a Grimoire of the Welsh Marches, a wide collection of spells and magical workings along with practical instruction on crafting and casting In this collaboration between a Druid and a Witchcraft researcher, Jon G. Hughes and Sophie Gallagher describe in intricate detail the arcane rituals, ancient beliefs, and secret rites of the Welsh Marches, the borderlands between Celtic Wales and Anglo-Saxon England--one of the oldest and most significant locations for early Witchcraft and a lasting repository for ancient Druidic lore. Drawing on their personal access to the archives of the National Museum of Wales, as well as the local museums found within the Welsh Marches, the authors share extracts from ancient texts, along with original photographs of related artifacts. In the second half of the book, the authors present a Grimoire of the Welsh Marches, a wide collection of spells and magical workings along with practical instruction on crafting and casting. Offering a comprehensive look at the earth-based beliefs and practices of primal Witchcraft and Druidic lore, the authors show not only how the traditions of the Welsh Marches had a profound influence on the cultural and spiritual history of the British Isles, but how their influence was exported to all corners of the world.Table of ContentsAcknowledgmentsPART 1 Witchcraft and Druidic Lore of the Welsh Marches 1 A Curious Beginning 2 The Welsh Marches 3 Magic, Religion, and Ritual in the Welsh Marches4 The Shropshire Amulet 5 Witchcraft, Christianity, and the Witch Terror 6 Witches of the Welsh Marches7 Druids of the Welsh Marches 8 Other Occult Arteworkers of the Welsh Marches 9 Prominent Occultists of the Welsh Marches 10 The Legacy of the Witches and Druids of the Welsh Marches PART 2 Grimoire of the Welsh Marches Yr Llyfr Swynion Gororau Cymru “The Book of Spells of the Welsh Borderland” 11 Finding Harmony between Two Ancient Traditions 12 Preparation of the Workplace and Crafting Components 13 Utilizing the Elements and the Will 14 Apotropaic Devices for Protection against Curses and Malevolent Energies 15 The Casting and Lifting of Spells and Curses 16 Elixirs of Love 17 Other Spells and Workings: Attachment Nosegays and Druid’s Breath 18 Scattering the Workplace and Caching ApparatusBibliography Index

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Book SynopsisIrish fairy tales and legends are full of enchantment, brave deeds and lost loves. Told from generation to generation, they are as fascinating now as they were to their original listeners. With stunning illustrations to draw the reader back to a time of heroes and myth. Now available in paperback.

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Book SynopsisRecorded in sacred Sanskrit texts, including the Rig Veda and the Mahabharata, Hindu Myths are thought to date back as far as the tenth century BCE. Here in these seventy-five seminal myths are the many incarnations of Vishnu, who saves mankind from destruction, and the mischievous child Krishna, alongside stories of the minor gods, demons, rivers and animals including boars, buffalo, serpents and monkeys. Immensely varied and bursting with colour and life, they demonstrate the Hindu belief in the limitless possibilities of the world - from the teeming miracles of creation to the origins of the incarnation of Death who eventually touches them all.

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Book SynopsisAccording to legend, the English landscape – so calm on the surface – is really the Devil’s work. Cloven Country, now in paperback, tells of rocks hurled into place and valleys carved out by infernal labour. The Devil’s hideous strength laid down great roads in one night, and left scars everywhere as the hard stone melted like wax under those burning feet. With roots in medieval folklore, this is not the Satan of prayer, but a clumsy ogre, easily fooled by humankind. When a smart cobbler or cunning young wife outwitted him, they struck a blow for the underdog. Only the wicked squire and grasping merchant were beyond redemption, carried off by a black huntsman in the storm.Trade Review'Harte – a curator at Bourne Hall Museum in Surrey – has an encyclopedic knowledge of the diverse sources of England’s traditional tales and proves himself to be an authoritative guide . . . From the demon who appears as a fearsome figure hurling stones, gouging out valleys and heaping up hills, or as a sinister black-clad huntsman with his fiery-eyed hounds howling across Bodmin Moor, to ideas about how a woman’s wit is better than a man’s when it comes to besting the lord of darkness, Harte takes his reader on a devilishly entertaining tour of England and its richly storied landscape.' – The Guardian; '[a] fascinating study . . . In Cloven Country, Harte sets out to discover why the “Devil” appears in so many of our place names, and so many of the accompanying tales and folklore. Along the way it becomes an invaluable guide to some of our more puzzling local oddities . . . It all makes for a highly evocative and original guide to our ever-fascinating, multilayered landscape, so full of shadowy mysteries and stories.' – Sunday Times; 'With so much folklore resting on oral tradition, in which old cycles of storytelling disappear with the breath used to speak them, to be lost beyond recall, it is heartening to have authorities like Jeremy Harte tethering them to the record with books like this. Especially when it makes for such a wickedly good read.' – Literary Review; 'Although [Harte] will retell a tale with a nimble and gleeful charm, he’ll then carefully examine them. Harte's skill as a writer makes this process seamless. It also renders what could be an academic and slightly dry exercise every bit as interesting as the narratives themselves. Come for the telling of folktales; stay for the workings of folklore. Cloven Country is testament to Harte's deep personal and learned knowledge of the folklore of England. He’s seemingly read everything and been everywhere – and given the book is illustrated from his collection, clearly also bought the postcard. His writing style is wry and frequently aphoristic. Harte is one of Britain's most eminent folklorists, whose previous works have included detailed accounts of gypsy folklore, holy wells and an award-winning book on fairy traditions. As Cloven Country is coming from a more recognised publisher, hopefully his work will now reach a wider audience. Purely on the basis of this erudite, witty and exceptionally entertaining book, it clearly deserves to.' – Ross MacFarlane, Fortean Times; 'This is my favourite book of the year so far. It is immaculately researched, superbly written and – like all Jeremy Harte’s work – genuinely breaks new ground in folklore studies. Only somebody with his breadth of knowledge, not only of the lore but of related fields of history, myth and literature, could have done as well.' – Ronald Hutton, Professor of History, University of Bristol, and author of Pagan Britain; 'Jeremy Harte has woven together a rich and wildly entertaining romp through the Devil-pocked English landscape. It is hard not to feel more than a little sympathy, given the amount of times the Devil seems to have been outwitted by all and sundry, but then he must be content in the knowledge that his efforts to disrupt have led to him being memorialised across the UK, in the form of dykes, tors, bridges, cauldrons and punchbowls.' – Simon Costin, director of the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic and founder of the Museum of British Folklore; 'Engagingly written and with a fitting pinch of mischief, Cloven Country is both erudite and entertaining. Jeremy Harte is one of the country’s leading folklorists and behind his relish for telling tales lies a deep understanding of how devil legends formed in our landscape. Equally delightful to read in a comfy chair or out in the field searching for the many sites he explores.' – Owen Davies, Professor in History, University of Hertfordshire, and president of the Folklore Society; 'This is a damnably good book, thanks largely to Harte's wit and erudition and ability to take folk tales at more than face value, and tease out inferences that would be opaque in a less insightful writer's hands.' – John Billingsley, Northern Earth; 'Cloven Country is an extensive and well-rounded exploration of the image of the Devil as reflected in the English landscape and folklore record, penned in Harte's inimitable clever and witty style. Although rigorously academic, you always feel like you have sat down for a pint with Jeremy, probably in a pub named after one of the Devil's exploits, whilst being regaled with tales. Pull a chair up to the fire, get yourself a drink and a copy of Cloven Country . . . You will not be disappointed.' – Mark Norman, The Folklore Podcast"Table of ContentsIntroduction 1 His Work Undone: The Devil’s Ambitious Projects Fail 2 Down Tumbled the Stones: Landscapes Shaped by the Devil’s Hand 3 Have at Thee! Churches Shifted, Targeted and Raided by the Devil 4 There Stood the Stranger: Rash Deals and Binding Promises with the Devil 5 Off in a Sheet of Flame: Fighting the Devil and Escaping His Clutches 6 Neither Inside nor Outside: Raising the Devil and Laying Him Afterwards 7 Woman’s Wit Is Better than Man’s: Maidens and Mothers Beat the Devil 8 Amid the Shrieking of the Storm: The Devil Appears to Carry off Sinners 9 To Chase Forever: The Devil Is a Huntsman, and Souls Are His Prey References Bibliography Photo Acknowledgements Index

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Book SynopsisThe great Norse Myths are among the most dramatic and unforgettable stories in all human history. These fascinating, fantastical tales have inspired centuries of art, culture and literature, including the storytelling of Tolkien, Neil Gaiman, George R. R. Martin's Game of Thrones, Wagner's Ring Cycle and Marvel Comics.The Norse Myths takes us on a thrilling journey through the Norse cosmos, from the creation of the world to Ragnarok, the final world-destroying conflict; via the Nine Worlds, and the exploits of the mighty gods and goddesses - mystical Odin, malicious Loki, mighty Thor and more - and their quarrel with the giants. Bringing to life the magical world of monsters and mythical creatures, The Norse Myths also introduces the adventures of humankind: folk heroes and tricksters; Sigmund's great battle in the Volsung Saga; the exploits of Kings and Princes; Viking exploration and settlement of new lands including Iceland, Greenland, America; and Viking life in the Mediterranean and the East. As well as a treasure trove of these epic stories of heroism and cruelty, squabbles and seductions, The Norse Myths is a comprehensive study of their origins, survival and interpretations - as academically important as it is exhilarating.

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Book SynopsisThe essence of the Wild Woman Oracle is feminine, dark, witchy, wise, mystical, spiritual, whimsical, authentic, educational, and empowering. The essence feels like the Dark Feminine which is loving and compassionate, yet honest, direct, and powerful. Through mythological, folkloric and contemporary tales about empowering female figures who embody the Wild Woman in their own unique ways, The Wild Woman Oracle will awaken you to your true, free and soulful Self. These Wild Women's stories - the losses, victories, and lessons learned - will help you begin to rewrite your own story. You will see how all your life experiences - especially the difficult, dark and uncertain ones - are alchemizing into gold … into the invaluable wisdom, fierce self-respect and keen joie de vivre of the Wild Woman.

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Book Synopsis''So they took the blossoms of the oak, and the blossoms of the broom, and the blossoms of the meadow-sweet, and produced from them a maiden, the fairest and most graceful that man ever saw...'' In this superb collection of tales, Celtic mythology and Arthurian romance come together to form a fascinating, deep-seated and powerful interpretation of British history. The tales include the story of the shape-shifter, Gwydion, who created a woman out of flowers; a murdered husband turned into an eagle; Math the magician; a magical board, dragons witches and giants.These wondrous creatures live in the same world as kings and heroes, quests for honour, and stories of revenge, chivalry, honour and love. THE MABINOGIAN remains one of the greatest and most influential works of myth and legend ever created.Trade ReviewA magnificent achievement ... it is hard to think that in scholarship or as a piece of English prose the present translation will ever be bettered * THE WELSH REVIEW *Magisterial ... the authoritative translation, notable for its meticulous scholarship and a fine literary style * OXFORD COMPANION TO THE LITERATURE OF WALES *

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Book SynopsisRecaptures the magical vitality of the original Orphic Hymns. As famous Renaissance philosopher Marsilio Ficino wrote, “No magic is more powerful than that of the Orphic Hymns.” These legendary teletai of Orpheus were not simply “hymns”—they were initiatic poems for meditation and ritual, magical, and ceremonial use, each one addressed to a specific deity, such as Athena or Zeus, or a virtue, such as Love, Justice, and Equality. Yet despite the mystical concepts underlying them, the original hymns were formulaic, creating an obstacle for translators. Recapturing the magical vitality that inspired mystery cults through the ages, Tamra Lucid and Ronnie Pontiac present new versions of the teletai that include important esoteric details and correspondences about the being or deity to which each hymn is addressed. The authors also include a new version of a lost hymn to Number and messages that were inscribed on golden leaves meant to be passports for the dead, reinventions that preserve the original magical intent and mysticism of the teletai. The authors provide a complete historical survey, based on the latest research, of the obscure origins and evolution of the Orpheus myth, revealing a profound influence at the heart of Western esotericism as well as on countercultures throughout Western history. Revealing the power of the individual hymns to attune the reader to the sacred presence of the Orphic Mysteries and the higher order of nature, the authors also show how, taken together, the Orphic Hymns are a book of hours or a calendar of life, addressing every event, from birth to death, and walking us through all the experiences of human existence as necessary and holy.Trade Review“Tamra and Ronnie have outdone themselves! This book is the most comprehensively intelligent and pleasurably accessible portrait of Orphic mythology now available. Their modern translations of the Orphic hymns yield fresh fruit from an ancient vine. The culmination of their historical and practical research yields a book that testifies to the 21st century: this music is magic, and the magic is real. Anyone interested in the intersections of music, myth, and magic will delight in this work.” * Matt Marble, author of Buddhist Bubblegum *“This book is a marvel of pagan revivalism. Tamra Lucid and Ronnie Pontiac have created a symphonic and learned study of the Orphic mythos encompassing history and meaning; translation of key odes; and reconstructed practice. If you yearn for evidence that the old deities are with us today, look no further than The Magic of the Orphic Hymns.” * Mitch Horowitz, PEN Award–winning author of Occult America and Uncertain Places *“This fascinating, lively, and erudite exploration of Orphism is a superb entrance point to this treasure trove of lore and knowledge.” * Richard Smoley, editor of Quest: Journal of the Theosophical Society in America and author of A Theo *“Tamra Lucid and Ronnie Pontiac have produced a beautifully clear and elegant version of the ancient Orphic hymns, preceded by a meticulously researched mythic, historical, and magical overview of all things Orphic past and present. They are passionate and thorough, their tone contemporary and accessible, creating a wonderful example of what Jeff Kripal calls ‘the gnostic classroom,’ which is rigorously scholarly yet deeply sympathetic to the universal wisdom of the Orphic tradition. A great resource for students and practitioners alike.” * Angela Voss, editor of Marsilio Ficino (Western Esoteric Masters Series) *“A wonderful book for anyone interested in metaphysics and mythology. Not only a fascinating and easy-to-read history but also an exhaustive work of scholarship—and in the translations of the poems that make up the second half of the book, a mind-blowing work of creativity. A must for any visionary’s library.” * Tod Davies, author of the History of Arcadia visionary fiction series and editorial director of Exte *“The Orphic hymns are among the most beautiful and effective invocations that have been handed down to us from the ancient Greeks. But, while Taylor’s classic translations are both admirable and eloquent in practice—that is, used ritualistically—they can seem clumsy and, at times, even cumbersome. Pontiac and Lucid’s welcome interpretive renditions have changed all of that. Theirs have quickly become my go-to translations for using the hymns in practical theurgic rites.” * P. D. Newman author of Theurgy: Theory and Practice *“Ronnie Pontiac and Tamra Lucid, musicians and metaphysicians both, the inheritors of Manly P. Hall’s blessings. Who better to reveal the living magic of the Orphic hymns to a new generation? The Orphic hymns are not spells but poetic and magical evocations aligned with the understanding of pantheism, that all of nature is divinely infused and revealed through its kindred correspondences. Although the book chases the figure of Orpheus through history in a scholarly fashion, the author is not identified, the story is too complex and veiled. The magic is to be encountered in the song, not the singer, so take up the invitation and softly sing to the world outside your window.” * Naomi Ozaniec, author of Becoming a Garment of Isis *“This book delivers what its title indicates: the translations of the Orphic fragments and hymns are rendered in clear modern English, easy to understand for the contemporary reader. The review and analysis of scholarship on the contested ‘Orphic’ religion is wide ranging and comprehensive. All scholarship is taken into consideration from skeptical classicists to engaged occultists. The book presents a ‘feeling’ of the Orphic tradition and at the same time an analytic and critical overview of ‘Orphism’ from ancient to modern times. From the ancient poets to the modern painters of Orphism; from Plato and Plotinus to Ficino, Thomas Taylor, and E. R. Dodds; from Monteverdi to Philip Glass to modern pop culture—it is an accomplishment. I give my warmest endorsement.” * Jay Bregman, author of Synesius of Cyrene *“I have often said that history is not a linear line, but instead a complex web. The goal of the historian is to make that web feel linear to the non-specialist. Tamra Lucid and Ronnie Pontiac have done exactly that, producing a stellar work, including passages so gorgeously written, I found myself returning to previous pages for a reread. Impeccably researched and beautifully written, The Magic of the Orphic Hymns is a wild ride through history, ritual, and the mysteries of the human mind and soul. As Lucid and Pontiac took me through the many ages and evolutions of the Orphic Mysteries, I could almost hear the sweet strings of a lute accompanying the many discoveries I made while reading—such is the strength of this timely work. Highly recommended to those who like their history neat, engaging, and filled with a page-turning allure that can only be described as magic.” * Thomas Hatsis, author of The Witches’ Ointment and Psychedelic Mystery Traditions *Table of ContentsIntroduction: An Experiment with the Orphic Hymns 1 The Mythology of Orpheus2 Mysterious Orpheus3 The Severan Dynasty 4 The Pagan Orpheus 5 The Orphic Mysteries 6 The Golden Leaves 7 The Night Gathering 8 Orpheus in the Renaissance 9 The Occult Orpheus 10 More Popular Than Ever 11 The Backward Glance 12 The Evolution of Eurydice 13 The Mystical Purpose 14 A Note on Incense15 A Note on the Translation Orphic Charms and the Sacred Songs of Orpheus Orphic CharmsMessages on gold leaf buried with the dead, and a grand invocation.The Sacred Songs of OrpheusA poetic interpretation of the Orphic hymns with added details about the sacred correspondences of the gods. Annotated BibliographyIndex of Orphic Charms and the Sacred Songs of OrpheusIndex

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Book SynopsisAfter witnessing first-hand the death throes of this rich and captivating tradition, Richard Hamilton has tracked down the last few remaining storytellers of Morocco, recording stories that are replete with the mysteries and beauty of the Maghreb. Marrakech is the heart and lifeblood of Morocco's ancient storytelling tradition. For nearly a thousand years, storytellers have gathered in the Jemaa el Fna, the legendary square of the city, to recount ancient folktales and fables to rapt audiences. But this unique chain of oral tradition that has passed seamlessly from generation to generation is teetering on the brink of extinction. The competing distractions of television, movies and the internet have drawn the crowds away from the storytellers and few have the desire to learn the stories and continue their legacy. Moroccan tales have a huge educational, religious and moral impact on their audience, offering timeless values and guidance to all who listen. With their passing we risk losing something of Morocco's national psyche and also part of the world's tangible heritage. Those who have listened to the storytellers at Marrakech first-hand have witnessed something that is no longer part of this world, a treasure as precious as the planet's most endangered species and of immeasurable importance to humanity.Trade ReviewInspiring . . . brilliantly illustrates an ancient oral tradition in my country. I cannot but commend your untiring, meticulous work. Building on stories gathered directly from some of our most renowned storytellers, you have introduced readers to a time-honoured Moroccan tradition. -- Mohammed VI, King of MoroccoCharming, fantastical and lively collection. Like a genie emerging from a flask, The Last Storytellers produces a startling amount of pleasure from some very small packages.... Both men [author and interpreter] deserve much praise for the successful outcome of this endeavour. * Times Literary Supplement *Hamilton presents readers with a precious gift: a collection of content not quite like anything we have ever heard or seen before. Readers who might never reach Marrakech can find their own oasis by making a cup of mint tea and giving thanks for these enchanting stories rescued from oblivion. * New York Journal of Books *Think of this as a collection of Grimm’s fairy tales with plenty of added North African charm. * Lonely Planet *Hamilton does not only offer his readers a valuable, enchanting, interesting and entertaining read but also launches a cri de coeur to rescue this vanishing and traditional form of storytelling as it slowly falls into the abyss of forgetfulness. * North South Magazine *This is addictive material. * The National *A truly remarkable piece of literature. * Essential Travel Blog *Table of ContentsForeword: Circles in the Jemaa el Fna xiii Author’s Note Acknowledgements Introduction The Red Lantern The King and His Prime Minister The Gazelle with the Golden Horns The Imam and the Wager The Girl Who Fell in Love with the Hermit The Birth of the Sahara The Trials of Noureddine The Sultan and His Vizier’s Wife The Queen and the King, the Son of Amelkani Nour and the Sultan The Laundryman and the Fountain The Man Who Went Against His Father’s Wishes The Vizier and the Chicken The Fakir and the Frog The Two Hunchbacks El-Ghaliya Bent Mansour The Land and the Treasure The Statue and the Robber The Tailor, the Princess and the Eagle The Sultan and the Thief The Eyes of Ben’Adi The Shoemaker and the Bird The Vizier and the Barber Seven Coins and a Donkey The Sultan’s Daughter and the Leper The Nobleman and His Three Sons The Vengeance of Allah The Woman and the Black Cat Aicha Rmada The Traveller and the Pasha’s Daughter The Girl from Fes One Hundred and One Beheadings The Three Figs Suleiman, the Stork and the City of Gold The Woman and the Devil The Bird from the Land of Gabour The Pomegranate and the Talking Drum The Date Gatherers The Rich Woman and the Sacks of Corn Postscript

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Book SynopsisThis labyrinthine and extraordinary book, first published more than fifty years ago, was the outcome of Graves''s vast reading and curious research into strange territories of folklore, mythology, religion and magic. Erudite and impassioned, it is a scholar-poet''s quest for the meaning of European myths, a polemic about the relations between man and woman, and also an intensely personal document in which Graves explored the sources of his own inspiration and, as he believed, all true poetry.This new edition has been prepared by Grevel Lindop, who has written an illuminating introduction. The text of the book incorporates all Graves''s final revisions, as well as his replies to two of the original reviewers, and a long essay in which he describes the months of inspiration in which The White Goddess was written.

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Book SynopsisIn this unique, illustrated collection, Literary Witches co-creator Katy Horan resurrects the real and fictional women (and men) of twenty traditional murder ballads, exploring their legacy in modern American music and culture.Murder Ballads is a guide to the origins and cultural impact of murder ballads as a music genre, covering its roots in patriarchal violence and white supremacy, as well as its contemporary relationship to true crime.   From “Delia's Gone” to “The Death of Queen Jane,” each of twenty carefully chosen ballads is accompanied by one of Horan’s beautifully macabre illustrations, a brief but thoroughly researched reflection, and suggestions for further listening.   Mysterious and alluring as the songs themselves, Murder Ballads will delight history enthusiasts, armchair musicologists, true crime fans (and critics), as well as anyone who appreciates the darker side of folk music.

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Book SynopsisFirst published in 1964, Indaba, My Children is an internationally acclaimed collection of African folk tales that chart the story of African tribal life since the time of the Phoenicians. It is these stories that have shaped Africa as we know it.

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Book SynopsisYou know Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen…but do you recall the most petrifying Christmas figures of all? Not all children fear just a lump of coal in their stockings. Discover the terrifying Yuletide fables that have horrified kids for generations.He sees you when you’re sleeping, he knows when you’re awake. He knows if you’ve been bad or good, so be good for goodness’ sake. This lighthearted song is a bit more ominous in the context of other Christmas traditions. From beasts that threaten to cook children into stew to sinister crones who snatch little ones from their beds, you won’t find any dancing sugar plums here. Outside of the heartwarming Christmas tales we all know and love, there are an abundance of frightening stories to chill all who hear them to the bone. Discover folklore from all corners of the world, including: Krampus (Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, and northern Italy), a demonic half-goat monster who drags chains and whips bad children with birch sticks, or stuffs them in his sack to take away The Kallikantzari (Greece, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Turkey), goblins who come out during Advent to cause mischief Père Fouettard (France, Belgium, Switzerland), Saint Nicholas’ eternal cannibal manservant who deals with naughty children Hans Trapp (Alsace-Lorraine, France), who roams the countryside disguised as a scarecrow and goes door to door on Christmas looking for children to feast upon Gryla (Iceland), the giant ogre who emerges from her cave on Christmas to hunt children and cook them into stew Mari Lwyd (Wales), a creature with a horse’s skull and a long cloak that is followed by a group of chanting people Frau Perchta (Austria and Bavaria), who slits the bellies of bad children and stuffs them with straw These tales are sure to leave you wishing for the Grinch. Whether you are a fan of history and folklore, you love learning about different cultures, or you just want to give a holiday gift that will bring the joy of Christmas to that lucky someone (just kidding), The Scary Book of Christmas Lore is for you. ’Tis the season! Is it beginning look a lot like Christmas, yet?

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Book SynopsisDrawing on myth, folklore and history, the stories of the Mabinogion passed from generations of storytellers before they were written down in the thirteenth century in the form we know. Set in dual realms of the forests and valleys of Wales and the shadowy otherworld, the tales are permeated by a dreamlike atmosphere. In ''Math Son of Mathonwy'' two brothers plot to carry off the virginal Goewin, while in ''Manawydan Son of Ll^yr'' a chieftain roams throughout Britain after a spell is cast over his land. And King Arthur''s court provides the backdrop to tales such as ''How Culhwch Won Olwen'', in which a young man must complete many tasks before he can marry a giant''s daughter.

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Book SynopsisDiscover a collection of fairy tales unlike the ones you''ve read before . . . Once upon a time, in the middle of winter, a King sat at a window and sewed. As he sewed and gazed out onto the landscape, he pricked his finger with the needle, and three drops of blood fell onto the snow outside.People have been telling fairy tales to their children for hundreds of years. And for almost as long, people have been rewriting those fairy tales to help their children imagine a world where they are the heroes. Karrie and Jon were reading their child these stories when they hit upon a dilemma, something previous versions of these stories were missing, and so they decided to make one vital change . . . They haven't rewritten the stories in this book. They haven't reimagined endings, or reinvented characters. What they have done is switch all the genders. It might not sound like that much of a change, but you'll be dazzled by the world this swap cre

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Book SynopsisA SUNDAY TIMES BOOK OF THE YEAR _______________ 'A work of extraordinary ambition, brilliantly realised’ OBSERVER 'A mesmerising journey down the byways of English folklore' MAIL ON SUNDAY 'Verbally dextrous, inventive, and hugely entertaining’ THE TIMES _______________ Herne the hunter, mischief-maker, spirit of the forest, leader of the wild hunt, hurtles through the centuries pursued by his creator. A shapeshifter, Herne dons many guises as he slips and ripples through time – at candlelit Twelfth Night revels, at the spectacular burning of the Crystal Palace, at an acid-laced Sixties party. Wherever he goes, transgression, debauch and enchantment always follow in his wake. But as the forest is increasingly encroached upon by urban sprawl and gentrification, and the world slides into crisis, Herne must find a way to survive – or exact his revenge.Trade ReviewWeaving together prose and poetry, myth and history, the past, present and future, it’s a work of extraordinary ambition, brilliantly realised * OBSERVER *A dark-dazzling archive of enchantments, pursuit, and desire -- ELEY WILLIAMSInventive and subversive ... A mesmerising journey down the byways of English folklore * MAIL ON SUNDAY *Verbally dextrous, inventive, and hugely entertaining * THE TIMES *This is the most adventurous, stylistically magnificent thing I’ve read for years. Nobody does fantasy like Zoe Gilbert -- NATASHA PULLEYMischief Acts is a deeply lyrical, century-spanning polyphony of voices; a dazzling new take on an ancient myth, reminding us of the wildness within. I adored it -- KERRY ANDREWMischief Acts is brimming with magic - full of wild hunts, river spirits and revelry. The story of Herne, like the forest itself, transforms, entangles and enchants -- LUCY WOODSuperb. A work of shimmering allure. By turns beguiling and mercurial, Gilbert takes British folklore to new heights -- IRENOSEN OKOJIEPraise for Folk: 'An extraordinary debut novel … It feels both ancient – drawing on deep seams of myth and folklore – and strikingly contemporary, pushing at the edges of what we mean when we call a book a novel. In Folk, Zoe Gilbert has made a thing of strange and enduring beauty -- ALEX PRESTON * FINANCIAL TIMES *Folk is a special book: immersive and dripping with life, each story a spell, an allegory, a dark, smoky poem divined from the landscape of our ancient kingdom … It reads like a dream that, once visited, is difficult to leave behind -- BEN MYERS * GUARDIAN *Genuinely original, disturbing, beautiful and gripping ... Folk can be read as a map of the British mythic imagination: of the river under the river. Starkly original and expertly written, it draws you, like a faerie song, into a kingdom from which you may never escape, and may not want to * NEW STATESMAN *Dazzling and unsettling, much like the best and darkest of fairy tales * TIMES LITERARY SUPPLEMENT *A dark, often discomforting debut … Gilbert’s sensuous prose conjures fantastical figures including a man born with a wing for an arm, and a girl who’s abducted by a water bull … Bewitching * MAIL ON SUNDAY, BEST NEW FICTION *Folk is absolutely stunning. I loved it. With gorgeous, incantatory prose, it submerges you in a mysterious and utterly compelling world. Its illumination lingers long after you close the book -- MADELINE MILLERI was thoroughly absorbed. Zoe Gilbert’s invented folk-world is sensuous and dangerous and thick with magic -- TESSA HADLEYThat rare thing: genuinely unique. It’s part-myth, part-allegory, wholly wonderful * OBSERVER, BOOKS OF THE YEAR *A captivating mythical, magical and haunting debut which draws on fascinating folklore * I PAPER *

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Book SynopsisExplore our fascination with UFOs and extraterrestrial intelligence through exclusive interviews, archival photos, and strange but true stories from history. Do you want to believe? After decades of cover-ups and denials, in a June 2021 report, the US government finally admitted what many people already knew: yes, UFOs are real, and no, we don t know what (or who) they are. Writer and historian Marc Hartzman separates fact from fiction and provides a comprehensive tour through the skies, including: UFO sightings, from the famous (including the Phoenix Lights and the Ariel School Incident) to the obscure Alien abductions, including the Betty and Barney Hill abduction and the Pascagoula abduction Ancient aliens, from Biblical astronauts to the alien architects behind the pyramids Scientific evidence, including the Wow! radio signal and the interstellar Oumuamua object Cover-ups and conspiracies, including the Roswell Incident and Area 51 Governmental and military reports, from Project Blue Book to reports of UFOs at nuclear weapons sites. Deeply researched and highly entertaining, We Are Not Alone will inform and enchant anyone who s ever doubted we re really alone in the universe.Trade Review“We Are Not Alone is a highly informative new book by Marc Hartzman that covers the UFO/UAP topic from ancient times to the present. It manages to be highly entertaining and easy to read, yet fair, balanced and thorough. Because it manages to be so enjoyable and engaging, while still doing justice to the complex history of the issue, it provides an ideal introduction to the UFO/UAP topic.” —Christopher Mellon, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Intelligence “Whether you’re a newcomer to the topic or a seasoned investigator/researcher, everyone will find something of interest in this enjoyable read that serves as an out-of-this-world journey.”—David Marler, Executive Director, National UFO Historical Records Center"Marc Hartzman's We Are Not Alone is the best book I've seen in decades for a single source account of the entire UFO phenomenon… It's perfect for the UFO curious, but also still valuable for grizzled veterans.”—Paul Hynek, son of Dr. J. Allen Hynek and Miriam Hynek and an entrepreneur, professor, and futurist “I recommend this book to anyone interested in our human experience with UFOs, UAPs, aliens, and SETI. It's thoroughly researched, brilliant, and so much fun! A perfectly lighthearted serious book.”—Dr. Pascal Lee, co-founder and chairman of the Mars Institute and planetary scientist at the SETI Institute"Now that UFO news pervades the media, I'm often asked by friends: How do I make sense of it all? They want to know how to get up to speed. Now I can finally say, ‘Just read this book.’ We Are Not Alone is the perfect summary of the most prolific UFO events and key themes of related phenomena. A fun read packed with illustrations and photos that will strike up an existential conversation anywhere on planet Earth!"—Ben Hansen, UFO researcher and host of UFO Witness “An entertaining, informative and even-handed overview of UFOs, alien abductions and the scientific search for extraterrestrial life, that places our fascination with aliens in its social, cultural and historical context.”—Nick Pope, UK Ministry of Defence ‘UFO Desk’ (1991-1994)“Marc Hartzman did it again—summing up expansive lore in a comprehensive and entertaining way, with loads of anecdotes and illustrations. The truth is in here!”—Axelle Carolyn, filmmaker (American Horror Story, Haunting of Bly Manor)“If you’re looking for the truth about UFOs and aliens, don’t look to the government, don’t look to the skies, look to the pages of We Are Not Alone. Hartzman’s thoroughly researched and thoroughly enjoyable book should be an essential part of any weird library.”—J.W. Ocker, author of The United States Of Cryptids“Deeply researched and highly entertaining, We Are Not Alone will inform and enchant anyone who's ever doubted that we are really alone in the universe.”—John Burroughs, Midwest Book Review “We Are Not Alone is a terrific overview of the UFO mystery, ETs, how they’ve affected us in the past and maybe in the future.”—George Knapp, investigative journalist and host of Coast to Coast AM“An absolutely astounding read in every possible way. Bottomline, this book you must read in your lifetime."—Daniel Breuer & Jennifer Gregerson, Night Talks Radio

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Book SynopsisLearn about all things dragon—lore, magic and where to find them—and how you can be more dragon in everyday life.Kirsten Riddle introduces you to the inspirational world of dragons. From the Chinese dragon, a symbol of auspicious power, to the Lindworm that appears in Norse mythology, dragons have featured in legends, literature, and on screen throughout the years and continue to fascinate us. As well as teaching you about dragon folklore and magic, Kirsten explains how to “train your own dragon”—tap into your creativity and inner fire with easy rituals and visualizations to express your true self and achieve your goals. She also describes how to become a Dragon Queen, with guides on makeup, hair, and fashion that all evoke the powerful spirit of dragons.

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Book SynopsisThis is a book about English art like no other. Forget the tired rogues’ gallery of lords and ladies, forget the tall ships and haywains. These images cut to the heart of England’s psychic landscapes to portray an Albion unhinged, where magic and rebellion and destruction are the horses to which the country is hitched. On these fabled shores we are all castaways, whether our family has lived here for four thousand years or for four. Here you will find depictions of ancient trackways, chalk carvings and standing stones, of animal-masked community rituals, of streets set ablaze in protest, of occult dreams and psychedelic prophecies. There are over 200 images by artists ranging from William Blake, J.M.W. Turner and Samuel Palmer to Paul Nash, Louis Wain, Bill Brandt, Derek Jarman and Ithell Colquhoun to present-day visionaries such as Paula Rego, Cathy de Monchaux, George Shaw, Jamie Reid, Matt Collishaw, Tacita Dean, Lina Iris Viktor, Yinka Shonibare, Nick Waplington, Dan Hillier, Nicola Tyson, Sutapa Biswas and Chila Kumari Burman. The mind-blowing selection of images is accompanied by short texts by Mat Osman, exploring magic and mazes, ghosts and gardens, shipwrecks and cities. These poetic renderings of a spectral isle, together with Stephen Ellcock’s hallucinatory visual journey, reclaim Albion as an eternally inspiring and anarchic domain – an England on fire.Trade Review"Fascinating, vibrant, and overwhelmingly powerful, this is a unique look at England in its magical and rebellious glory ... A LoveReading Star book, England on Fire is truly beautiful, it’s astute, inclusive, and absolutely magical." - Liz Robinson, LoveReading.co.uk "Ellcock resurfaces the work of a wide range of artists, from overlooked 19th century printmakers to female surrealists. In the place of sedentary lords and ladies, he offers saturnalia. In the place of haywains; standing stones, the Cottingley fairies and scenes from anti-fascist marches." - India Bourke, New Statesman"England On Fire will change the way you see England, not for showing anything new, but for showing you what has been there all along." - Thomas Overlook, Exquisite Terror"not just mind blowing, but mind defining – approaching the heights of epiphanic beauty ... This deep, wild England also contains the euphoria of possibility – therein lies the importance and joy of this book, the pages of which mingle with our dreams." - Richard Cabut, International Times"England on Fire is definitely thought-provoking. As you flick through the pages, you really do get a sense of the subconscious and often poignant undercurrent of England's 'jousting and days out' heritage." - Love British History"A fantastical wander through English art, customs and rituals [...] an insightful visual map of a strange and fascinating world." – Sinéad Gleeson

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Book SynopsisExplore the sprawling network of culture to discover the incredible ways in which ideas connect to shape the world we see today. These mind-blowing essays dig down to the roots of stories, myths and literary genres, travelling from art to politics to history to folklore, and from high to popular culture and back again. Through an intricate web of sidenotes, embark on a voyage of discovery from the unluckiest book ever made to Viking horned helmets to the sex life of vampires …. or from mermaids frolicking in the margins to the ancient Amazons to the power of Amazon and on to Utopia and Atlantis … This is western culture as you’ve never seen it before.

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Book SynopsisMost people have no idea that we have scorpions, Aesculapian snakes, eagle owls, wallabies and many more unusual non-native species living and breeding in the British Isles.In An Unnatural History of Britain nature writer Kevin Parr travels the length and breadth of the country seeking out these rare creatures and exploring the myths and folklore which have emerged around them along the way.

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Book SynopsisHIGHLY COMMENDED: THE OWPG GUIDEBOOK AWARDS 2024Embark on an extraordinary journey through the British countryside, leading to mysterious sites, ancient wonders and legendary landscapes to uncover 50 of the most intriguing walks in Britain. Discover the Green Chapel of Arthurian legend deep in the Staffordshire moorlands. Take a magical stroll through the fairytale forest of Wistman's Woods on Dartmoor. Marvel at the surreal rock formations of Brimham Rocks in Yorkshire, or spot the Hogwarts Express crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Scottish Highlands. With each walk ranging from two to eight miles in length and featuring beautiful photography, helpful directions and useful information, this book guarantees captivating experiences for walkers of all abilities, whether you're a casual stroller or seasoned hiker. Short Walks to Curious Places is your key to unlocking the secrets of the British countryside. With every step, you'll uncover the stories that shaped these extraordi

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Book SynopsisNiall Mac Coitir provides a comprehensive look at the folklore, legends and history of animals in Ireland, and describes their relations with people, being hunted for food, fur, sport, or as vermin, and their position today. A final section, inspired by stories of animal transformation, looks at twelve animals and how we can enrich our lives by visualising ourselves with their special qualities. This fascinating and beautifully illustrated compilation of folklore, legends and natural history will delight all with an interest in Ireland’s animals.Trade Review'Full of arcane and interesting facts' * Irish Examiner *

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Book SynopsisThis powerful analysis of the 'wise women healer' from the oral traditions of Ireland's rural communities, is unique in its depth and perspective. Stories, told and retold, embedded in the texture of culture and community, collected and studied for many decades, are here translated and made available to the general reader for the first time. The figure of the 'wise woman', the 'hag', the Cailleach, or the 'Red Woman' are part of an oral tradition which has its roots in pre-Christian Ireland. In the hands of Gearoid O Crualaich, these figures are subtly explored to reveal how they offered a complex understanding of the world, of human psychology and its predicaments. The thematic structure of the book brings to the fore universal themes such as death, marriage, childbirth and healing, and invites the reader to see the contemporary relevance of the stories for themselves.Trade Review"This is a breathtaking book. It returns to Irish folk material the emotional depth and imaginative meaning which it always contained in its natural context but of which it has often been stripped by the more utilitarian and commonplace interpretations long in fashion. It reminds me once again why I am charmed and enchanted by this material, and more than that, why I regularly find in it answers to the deep-seated obsessions of my own. A real gem of a book, containing an exemplary methodology showing how the Irish folk tradition can be interrogated to find answers which are vitally important to our age and times." Nuala Ni Dhomhnaill "The Book of the Cailleach is not only ambitious, but courageous...this book will be indispensable to students of Irish vernacular culture and richly rewarding for readers from many other backgrounds." Angela Bourke

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Book SynopsisExplore the most fascinating superstitions from around the world and marvel at the impact they have on our present-day lives. The Encyclopedia of Curious Rituals and Superstitions sheds light on the impact that superstitions have on our global society at large, world history, the pop culture we consume, the art we create, and even the way we think about marriage, death, prosperity, self-protection, and luck, to name a few. No matter where on Earth you live, superstitions have always been the infrastructure of societies since ancient times. They can be found in social rules of etiquette, in the vocabulary we communicate with, in rituals performed during holidays, in birthing rooms across time, at funerals, or just in our everyday habits. These mysterious practices provide an essential source of comfort, safety, and control. Even more fascinating is that they have been used since time immemorial to explain the unexplained. Unpack the lore and origins of cultural superstitions and how they have persisted throughout many generations. Discover how:  Celtic fairies are behind our compulsion to knock on wood  Norse mythology is responsible for our fear of the number 13 Taylor Swift finds the number 13 to be lucky  A quick death in Japan is thought to be ensured if you cut your toenails at night The evil eye is an important talisman in Jewish and Muslim cultures The meaning behind your birthstone can predict your personality Rabbits hold significance in some Asian and Indigenous cultures Finding a husband in Nebraska is as simple as 99 horses, a white mule, and a handshake Eating twelve grapes on New Year''s Eve in Spain and Central and South America can bring forth prosperity Beautiful illustrations further challenge the images your mind may have already held about the beliefs you instinctively carry throughout your life. You will be continually surprised and delighted by how superstitions not only define the bedrock of a culture but also demonstrate the nuanced ways in which we are all connected. Unlock a world of wonders in The Encyclopedia of Curious Rituals and Superstitions.The Wonderpedia series offers comprehensive, display-worthy illustrated references on a range of intriguing topics, including archeological discoveries, world mythology, pop culture, global superstitions, and the fascinating stories behind signs and symbols. A cross-cultural exploration of what makes humans tick, this series magnifies the connective threads between us across time and geography and demystifies the surprising, confounding sides of life.  

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Book SynopsisA deep exploration of the regenerative and magical secrets of sacred masculinity hidden in familiar myths both ancient and modern• Reveals the restorative fungi archetype of Osiris, the Orphic mysteries as an underground mycelium linking forests and people, how Dionysus teaches us about invasive species and playful sexuality, and the ecology of Jesus as depicted in his nature-focused parables• Liberates Tristan, Merlin, and the Grail legends from the bounds of Campbell’s hero’s journey and invites the masculine into more nuanced, complex ways of dealing with trauma, growth, and self-knowledgeLong before the sword-wielding heroes of legend readily cut down forests, slaughtered the old deities, and vanquished their enemies, there were playful gods, animal-headed kings, mischievous lovers, trickster harpists, and vegetal magicians with flowering wands. As eco-feminist scholar Sophie Strand discovered, these wilder, more magical modes of the masculine have always been hidden in plain sight. Sharing the culmination of eight years of research into myth, folklore, and the history of religion, Strand leads us back into the forgotten landscapes and hidden secrets of familiar myths, revealing the beautiful range of the divine masculine, including expressions of male friendship, male intimacy, and male creative collaboration. In discussing Dionysus and Osiris, Strand encourages us to think like an ecosystem instead of like an individual. She connects dying, vegetal gods to the virtuous cycle of composting and decay, highlighting the ways in which mushrooms can restore soil and heal polluted landscapes. Exploring esoteric Christianity, the author celebrates the Gnostic Jesus of the Gospel of Thomas, imagining the ecology that the Rabbi Yeshua would have actually been referencing in his nature-focused parables. Strand frees Tristan, Merlin, and the Grail legends from the bounds of Campbell’s hero’s journey and invites the masculine into more nuanced, complex ways of dealing with trauma, growth, and self-knowledge. Strand reseeds our minds with new visions of male identity and shows how each of us, regardless of gender, can develop a matured ecological empathy and witness a blossoming of sacred masculine powers that are soft, curious, connective, and celebratory.Trade Review“If we want to locate the underlying source of our civilization’s headlong rush to destruction, we must dig deeper than capitalism, deeper even than the Western worldview, until we encounter the bedrock of patriarchy. In this exuberant tableau of resurrection, Strand reveals how even our most archetypal myths have been molded and devitalized to fit the patriarchal straitjacket, and Strand lays the groundwork for a regenerated masculinity--one that is liberated to explore life-affirming possibilities grounded in the deep wisdom of long-buried ancient lore.” * Jeremy Lent, author of The Web of Meaning *“Sophie Strand’s beautiful and poetic book is a game changer. With The Flowering Wand as a tool, it is possible to rewrite the mostly traumatizing patriarchal narratives Western males so often base their identity in and reconnect them with the underlying story of a cultural and natural deep history of mutual transformation with other beings beyond all modern binaries.” * Andreas Weber, biologist, philosopher, and author of Enlivenment: Toward a Poetics for the Anthropoc *“Sophie Strand writes with the urgency of a prophet and the musicality of a bard. Weaving myth together with botany, history with theology, her virtuosic linguistic skeins would do her beloved mycorrhizae proud. In The Flowering Wand, the masculine appears as lover, as partner, as inspirer, as friend. This is a book important in its joy, powerful in its love--exuberant in its curiosity. Taking us by the hand, Strand leads us into a garden of delights: tarot cards, ancient scriptures, Shakespearean comedies, sky gods, the Minotaur, the Milky Way. Strand holds the gates of wonder open and love comes flowing out. These are the birth waters breaking. Rejoice! The masculine is reborn.” * Amanda Yates Garcia, author of Initiated: Memoir of a Witch *“A magnificent weave of ecology and myth--it is evident there’s some pretty rich dirt, culturally speaking as well as actual dirt no doubt, under the fingernails that have written this lyrical journey. A book filled with magical insight, revealing Strand’s wondrous curiosity and impressive learnings of the complex relationships between humans and nature.” * Sam Lee, musician and author of The Nightingale *“The wisdom in this book is almost beyond expression. Sophie Strand’s The Flowering Wand reveals the full potency and profligacy of myth.” * Manchán Magan, author of Thirty-Two Words for Field: Lost Words of the Irish Landscape *“Sophie Strand’s work is a must-read for lovers of mythology and the Earth. Her work is poetic yet practical. It’s whimsical and transportive, yet it’s describing the world around you, inviting you back home to the reality of this mystical life and world we inhabit.” * Annabel Gat, author of The Astrology of Love and Sex and The Moon Sign Guide *“The Flowering Wand is a ‘wild thing’ and seeks out other forms of recombination and transformative fusion and gives them life. The surprising conclusion is, we humans have always been more-than-human. Are you wild enough to find out why?” * Glenn Albrecht, Ph.D., philosopher and environmentalist *“Sophie Strand’s new book offers a luminous exploration of the radical mythic underpinning of the masculine narrative. Here the autocratic sky gods and sword-wielding dominators of people and landscapes are replaced by a dynamic ensemble of dancers, lovers, and liberators. Strand reminds us how these actors--from the Minotaur to Merlin--inspire people of all places and genders to break out of the straitjacket of patriarchal control and become more embodied, protean, dramaturgical, and emergent in our lives. Get entangled!” * Charlotte Du Cann, author of After Ithaca: Journeys in Deep Time *“Sophie Strand’s words embody both the chthonic depth of well-myceliated soil and the crystals, sharp with insight, among its hyphae. In The Flowering Wand, Sophie remediates the ground of western culture by rerooting the divine masculine--in all its fertility, magic and imagination-- back into the earth. Through Sophie‘s richly seeded prose and deep scholarship she shows us how reclaiming this fertile, soporific energy--an energy that lives within us all--can help heal our connection with the Animate Everything and nourish the re-flowering of the world.” * Asia Suler, author of Mirrors in the Earth *“Readers will feel the words in this book tendril around their hearts and minds, forming adaptive connections and creating conversations with the ‘Animate Everything’ in the wilds of their everyday worlds. Myths that stay the same don’t survive, Strand tells us; she waves a wand toward the earth and summons up vital wisdom for our time.” * Gavin Van Horn, author of The Way of Coyote *Table of ContentsIntroduction The Sword or the Wand PART 1Back to the Roots1 Sky, Storm, and Spore Where Do Gods Come From? 2 The Hanged Man Is the Rooted One Thinking from the Feet3 Between Naming and the Unknown Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night4 The Minotaur Dances the Masculine Back into the Milky WayMyths Need to Move5 The Moon Belongs to Everyone Lunar Medicine for the Masculine 6 Becoming a HomeThe Empress Card Embraces the Masculine 7 Dionysus Girl-Faced God of the Swarm, the Hive, the Vine, and the Emergent Mind 8 Merlin Makes Kin to Make Kingdoms A Multiplicity of Minds and Myths9 Joseph, Secret Vegetalista of Genesis Plants Use Men to Dream 10 Actaeon Is the King of the Beasts From Curse to Crown11 A New Myth for Narcissus Seeing Ourselves in the Ecosystem 12 Everyone Is OrpheusSinging for Other Species 13 Dionysus as LiberThe Vine Is the Tool of the Oppressed 14 Rewilding the Beloved Dionysus Offers New Modes of Romance 15 Grow Back Your Horns The Devil Card Is Dionysus PART IIHealing the Wound 16 Let Your Wings DryGiving the Star Card to the Masculine 17 Tristan and TransformationEscaping the Trauma of the Hero’s Journey 18 Boy David, Wild David, King David The Land-Based Origin of Biblical Kingship 19 Coppice the Hero’s Journey Creating Narrative Ecosystems 20 Merlin and Vortigern Magical Boyhood Topples Patriarchy21 Parzifal and the Fisher King The Grail Overflows with Stories 22 Sleeping Beauty, Sleeping World The Prince Offers the Masculine a New Quest 23 Melt the Sacred Masculine and the Divine Feminine into Divine Animacy The Sacred Overflows the Human 24 Resurrect the Bridegroom The Song of Songs and Ecology as Courtship 25 OsirisThe Original Green Man 26 What’s the Matter? A Mycelial Interpretation of the Gospel of Mary Magdalene 27 Knock upon Yourself The High Priestess Wakes Up the Masculine28 The Kingdom of Astonishment Gnostic Jesus and the Transformative Power of Awe 29 Healing the Healer Dionysus Rewilds Jesus 30 Making Amends to Attis and AdonisNo Gods Were Killed in the Making of This Myth 31 The Joyful Rescue Tolkien’s Eucatastrophe and the Anthropocene 32 Sharing the Meal Tom Bombadil Offers the Masculine Safe Haven 33 The Gardeners and the SeedsHealing the Easter Wound Conclusion A Cure for Narrative Dysbiosis Acknowledgments Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisHarperCollins is proud to present its range of best-loved, essential classics.The wolf thought to himself, What a tender young creature! what a nice plump mouthful she will be better to eat than the old woman. I must act craftily, so as to catch both.'This collection of much-loved folk tales features such familiar characters as daring Little Red Riding Hood, crafty Rumpelstiltskin and the ill-fated infants Hansel and Gretel. They are as magical and fascinating today as when they were first told, despite or because of the underlying darkness at their heart.Collected in a single volume by the brothers Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, and first published in 1812, these stories are known and loved by adults and children alike, and have grown to be an invaluable part of our collective imagination.

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Book SynopsisMagic is all around us - in stones, flowers, stars, the dawn wind and the sunset cloud. All we need is the ability to see it, understand it, and apply it.

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Book SynopsisThe powerful gods of Greece, Rome, and Scandinavia, the more mystical deities of Buddhist and Hindu India, and the stern spirits of the African and American continents all reflect very different civilizations, yet they also demonstrate the unity of mankind in its fundamental need for explanations of the unknown. Arthur Cotterell sets out clearly the chief myths of the world and explains why different mythologies arose in different lands. * Comprehensive coverage in seven main sections of West Asia, South and Central Asia, East Asia, Europe, America, Africa, and Oceania * Clear and informative section introductions highlight the history and lifestyle of ancient peoples and the landscape in which they lived * Illustrated with black-and-white photographs and maps of each key area `An excellent reference book, as well as a good book for dipping into at leisure.'' Greek ReviewTrade ReviewAn excellent reference book, as well as a good book for dipping into at leisure. * Greek Review *

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Book SynopsisMeet the monsters in our midst, from bigfoot to Mothman and beyond! Welcome to the United States of Cryptids, where mysterious monsters lurk in the dark forests, deep lakes, and sticky swamps of all fifty states. From the infamous Jersey Devil to the obscure Snallygaster, travel writer and chronicler of the strange J. W. Ocker uncovers the bizarre stories of these creatures and investigates the ways in which communities embrace and celebrate their local cryptids. Readers will learn about: Batsquatch of Washington, a winged bigfoot that is said to have emerged from the eruption of Mount Saint Helens Nain Rouge of Michigan, a fierce red goblin that has been spotted before every major city disaster in Detroit Flatwoods Monster of West Virginia, a robotic extraterrestrial that crash-landed in rural Appalachia Lizard Man of South Carolina, a reptilian mutant that attacked a teenager in the summer of 1988 Glocester Ghoul of Rhode Island, a fire-breathing dragon that guards a hoard of pirate treasure And many more! Whether you believe in bigfoot or not, this fully illustrated compendium is a fun, frightening, fascinating tour through American folklore and history, exploring the stories we tell about monsters and what those stories say about us.Trade Review“A deliciously nerdy chronicle that celebrates thinking about life beyond.”—Vice“Thoughtful and well-researched...a worthy addition to any cryptid enthusiast’s library.”—AIPT Comics “[Ocker's] breezy storytelling talents make for enjoyable reading.”—Booklist“Essential reading for anyone with an interest in unexplained mysteries, folklore, mythology, and the supernatural. An inherently fascinating, impressively informative, truly exceptional, and unreservedly recommended addition to community and academic library Cryptid collections.”—Midwest Book Review“I love folklore, so naturally, I also love cryptids, since they're basically the scary story versions of modern folklore. Which is precisely what I enjoyed about The United States of Cryptids.”—BoingBoing“Essential reading for anyone with an interest in unexplained mysteries, folklore, mythology, and the supernatural. An inherently fascinating, impressively informative, truly exceptional, and unreservedly recommended addition to community and academic library Cryptid collections.”—Midwest Book Review“For believers and non-believers alike, this book is an interesting look at the legendary creatures that run, crawl and fly throughout the 50 states.”—James Madison University’s The Breeze

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