In these four little paperback books, Rily Press have produced a welcome quartet of individual sections of the Four Branches of the Mabinogi . Forget Disney, think authentic: these are fresh retellings of ancient tales which should be as familiar as those of the Greeks, Romans and Norsemen, with plots as vivid, exciting and thought provoking as widely known contemporary games and films. Whether child or adult , if you're looking for quality storytelling and an introduction to ancient Welsh stories, these works by prize-winning Sian Lewis and Valeriane Leblond are for you. The acclaimed, well-loved author has produced readable and enjoyable versions which thrill and capture the imagination , appealing to both boys and girls.The style is easy but remains true to the original and the storytelling brings the characters and tales to life with an immediacy which both engages and draws the reader along, introducing fascinating characters, witnessing mysterious events and entering Celtic Wales and its otherworld. The striking gouache drawings by masterful Valeriane Leblond create a sense of atmosphere, place and time. Lightly annotated maps of The Island of the Mighty and Wales provide the geographical context whilst individual pictures convey the wonder of various scenes which are populated by kings and princes, hunters, prey and otherworld creatures, warriors and maidens,magical , mysterious and sometimes raw confrontations, love stories and tragedies, rifts and rivalries, strange challenges and adventures. These expertly illustrated single stories present the ancient traditional tales of Wales in manageable individual sections. They are ideal for younger children to share or for others to enjoy solo, lending themselves to reading for pleasure, pocket money collection or swapping. Whilst they are great purchases and gifts for the home, in school they would present rich opportunities across the curriculum. (They are also available in Welsh and together in a quality hardback. ) In school, at home or on holiday these tales are a treat. -- Lorna Herbert-Egan @ www.gwales.com
