One of our Books of the Year 2015 Discover eleven wonderful tales in this, ‘An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures’. The combination of author Theresa Breslin and illustrator Kate Leiper works beautifully. As an avid collector of fantastical treasuries, I have to admit to an immediate Gollum-esque grab, the moment this appeared on my desk. The gorgeous cover is of the Island Beast, the star of one of the tales, however most of the illustrations aren't quite as menacing as this particular creature. The illustrations reach out to you, with hidden glimpses of creatures as well as the obvious, make sure you don't slide over them as you read, as I loved the “ahah’ moment of the landscape in the Nessie tale. This book is an absolute treat for children as it’s not too frightening. Actually it’s a treat for any age, whether you are new to some of these tales, (as I was), or have grown up with story of the Nuckalavee or the Wulver, it’s quite simply fabulous. ~ Liz Robinson
An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures Synopsis
Mysterious selkies, bad-tempered giants, devious fairies and even Loch Ness's most famous resident -- these are the mythical beasts of Scottish folklore. In the highly anticipated companion volume to the much-loved An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales, award-winning children's author Theresa Breslin brings together a stunning collection of tales from across Scotland. Alternately humorous, poignant and thrilling, each story is brought to life with exquisite illustrations by Scottish fine artist Kate Leiper, whose exquisite illustrations brim with otherworldly beauty. A wonderful gift, this is a truly stunning book to be treasured for a lifetime and will be enjoyed by parents and grandparents as well as children.
'This is a rare delight; a harmonious braiding of pitch-perfect storytelling with illustrations of breathtaking elegance and integrity. Every home should have at least one copy.' Debi Gliori
'Theresa Breslin brings an array of creatures to life with her assured and captivating storytelling, and she places a child at the heart of each tale.' Julia Donaldson
'Theresa Breslin's storytelling and the artwork of Kate Leiper combine to produce An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures. Theresa has selected eleven stories from settings across Scotland to tell and re-tell: a Selkie tale from Orkney, Thomas the Rhymer from the Scottish Borders, a story of dangerous women from Arbroath and an adventure of the Wee Folk in Lanarkshire amongst others. Her engaging style makes this an ideal collection to read aloud. But be sure to allow plenty of time to absorb all the beauty in Kate's minutely detailed illustrations. The book is full of colour and atmosphere and style, a testament to the partnership of writer and illustrator.' Jane Sandell, The Scotsman
Author
About Theresa Breslin
Theresa Breslin O.B.E. is the popular, critically-acclaimed author of over 50 books for children and young adults and winner of many literary prizes including the prestigious Carnegie Medal. Her work has been adapted for television, stage, and radio, and is translated worldwide.
Theresa is an Honorary Fellow of the Association of Scottish Literary Studies, has received an Outstanding Achievement Award from Scottish Book Trust, and was appointed an OBE for Services to Literature. She lives near Glasgow, Scotland, is passionate about children's literature and literacy and a regular visitor at book festivals and schools. Theresa is the author of An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales,An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures and An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Castle Legends illustrated by fine artist Kate Leiper. Her numerous historical books for children include Mary Queen of Scots: Escape from the Castle and Illustrated Legends of Scotland's Kings and Queens, published by Floris Books.
