C. J. Taylor,
Spirits, Fairies, and Merpeople: Native Stories of Other Worlds
Tundra Books, 2009

Rating: G*

Spirits, Fairies and Merpeople is a collection of seven stories that represent seven different North American First Nation groups, including the Mohawk heritage of Taylor herself. Although each tale is distinct in plot and the cultural heritage of the particular tribe, each is also connected by the inclusion of a spirit or creature living in a parallel, fantasy world. From mermaids and little people to good and evil spirits, these mythical creatures shape the stories and bring meaning to happenings of the natural world and help to explain the balance between good and evil.

Each story begins with a beautiful, full-page painting by the author, an internationally acclaimed artist in her own right. The language of the stories is rich and descriptive, making it a pleasure to read for children and adults alike.

Thematic Links: First Nation Legends; Multiculturalism

Moira Kirkpatrick
Vol. 15, number 1
October 2009

*Rating System:
E - Excellent, enduring, everyone should see it!
G - Good, even great at times, generally useful!
A - Average, all right, has its applications.
P - Problematic, puzzling, poorly presented.