Books with author Lystra Stephens-James

Irish Fairy Tales is a retelling of ten Irish folktales by the Irish author James Stephens. The English illustrator Arthur Rackham provided interior artwork, including numerous black and white illustrations and sixteen color plates. The stories are set in a wooded, Medieval Ireland filled with larger-than-life hunters, warriors, kings, and fairies. Many stories concern the Fianna and their captain, Fionn mac Uail, from the Fenian Cycle of Irish mythology.

“There is a difference between this world and the world of Faery, but it is not immediately perceptible. Everything that is here is there, but the things that are there are better than those that are here. All things that are bright are there brighter. There is more gold in the sun and more silver in the moon of that land. There is more scent in the flowers, more savour in the fruit. There is more comeliness in the men and more tenderness in the women. Everything in Faery is better by this one wonderful degree, and it is by this betterness you will know that you are there if you should ever happen to get there.” ― James Stephens, Irish Fairy Tales

When a crock of gold belonging to the leprechauns of Gort na Cloca disappears, strange things begin to happen. Brigid and Seumas, the children of Philosopher and the Thin Woman of Inis Magrath are kidnapped; and even more unusual, the ancient god Pam is seen playing in the fields!Attempting to find his children, the Philosopher undertakes a journey to seek the help of the mighty and mysterious god Angus Og. The journey abounds in fantastic adventures and weird sights, culminating in a great gathering of the clans and fairy creatures. There, Angus and a merry multitude of gods bring happiness once again to the folk of the enchanted countryside.This delightful and unique fantasy established the reputation of the noted Irish poet and novelist James Stephens. Brimming with good humor, whimsy, and charm — along with a few serious observations that in no way detract from the story's magical qualities — The Crock of Gold is a wise and beautiful fairy tale for grown-ups. "Full of sympathy and tenderness and sly satire, of merriment and of poetry." — The New York Times. It is a classic of modern fiction that will enchant devotees of Celtic lore and fable lovers of all ages.