Nothing better exemplified the world of magic and Celtic tradition than its fairy tales, and in this collection John Mattews has brought together some of the best of these stories, following in the tradition of the great nineteenth-century collectors such as Joseph Jacobs, W. B Yeats and Jermiah Curtin. Classic Celtic Fairy Tales contains a veritable treasure trove of material, much from forgotten archives in Scotland, Ireland and Wales.

While fairy tales and their equivalent occur in all cultures throughout history, the Celtic tradition speaks especially of a univeral humanity and of a oneness with land, time and nature that we seem to have lost over the last hundred years. The current revival of interest is matched by a seeking for deeper understanding, both of self and of place in the universe. These tales and their lessons are wonderful in introducing the simple yet magical aspects of truth -- entertaining, amusing and teaching all at the same time.

John Mattews has supplied a full background and explanation for each story. With the supreb colour illustrations provided by noted artist Ian Daniels, Classic Fairy Tales is fitting additon to the wide range of titles on Celtic and other mythical and legendary topics.

This book is a trip into fantasy with a touch of reality and I have granted it three thistles for the insight it gives us into the fairy tales of the Celtic world.