Pagan Portals—Aos Sidhe: Meeting the Irish Fair Folk

Witch Daimler (Pagan Portals—Raven Goddess) delivers a handy reference guide to Irish fairies. Mining the Irish folklore collection at University College Dublin, Daimler explores the myths surrounding the “people of the fairy hills” known as aos sidhe who, according to Irish legends dating back to the ninth century, are short, humanoid creatures who come from the “Otherworld” and dress in antiquated fashion. The author describes common motifs in aos sidhe stories, and notes that the beings are said to be visible only to a select few humans and can cause mysterious illnesses with a power called the “fairy stroke.” She furnishes recommendations for engaging with fairies and suggests readers respect fairies’ privacy, refrain from bragging about being blessed by fairies at risk of losing the blessing, and decline any offers of fairy food, which would prevent one from returning to the mortal world. A comprehensive reading list provides resources for those who want to dig deeper. Daimler makes for an enjoyable tour guide through the realm of the aos sidhe, moving briskly through the legends around the fairies without sacrificing thoroughness. Readers of magic and the esoteric should take note. (Aug.)