This collection of 29 short stories, folktales, and poems dealing with faeries and other little folk spans many different cultures and periods of time. Selections from Shakespeare and Tennyson, Hans Christian Andersen, and e. e. cummings as well as Mayan, African, and Native American folklore are among those included. The similarity of themes across the ages and cultures is noted in the foreword, which compares many of the selections.
With references to Joseph Campbell and Bruno Bettelheim, this introduction seems to be intended for adults. Some of the stories are given lively retellings, while others are preserved intact. A thorough bibliography lists general sources about faeries, citations for the poems, and the different versions consulted by the reteller. Charming illustrations in delicate watercolors appear on nearly every page and greatly enhance the book's appeal. Wonderful book and illustratons!