Glorious Goddesses Of Ancient Ireland written by Karen Ward and illustrated by Paula McGloin.
A literary review by Kate O’Brien.
Published by Beehive Books, Glorious Goddesses Of Ancient Ireland introduces readers to legendary figures from Irish mythology. This book is filled with fascinating tales.
This book is a delightful read, and Ward’s stories are brought to life by McGloin’s striking artwork.
This book introduces readers to nine Goddesses. Danu, Gráinne, The Cailleach, Brigid, Áine, Aisling, Boann, The Morrigan, and Ériu. Each of these mythical Goddesses are unique and powerful in their own way. Each and every one of these figures is a force of nature.
Danu, The Mother Goddess, is the first of all the Irish deities. Danu is the symbol of nature and fertility. Gráinne, The Maiden Goddess, is a determined girl who knows her own mind. The Cailleach, The Crone Goddess, is a protective and powerful force. The Crone Goddess brings the winter, but she also protects those in her care. Brigid, Goddess Of Spring, is the patron saint of Ireland. Brigid is the bringer of spring. Áine, Sun Goddess Of Love is celebrated at the summer solstice. She is a force that brings the harvest, and her sunlight ensures ripe crops.
Aisling, Goddess Of Vision, she inspires all who see her. Aisling’s presence is a sign of hope, and it was believed that if she appeared before you, it was to bring an important message.
Boann is the River Goddess who wouldn’t be refused wisdom, instead her power grew and grew. The Morrigan is the Goddess Of Death and Prophecy. The Morrigan is a seer of death, she predicts the future, and she encourages heroics. Last but not least is Ériu, the Sovereignty Goddess Of Ireland. She symbolises Ireland as a land of abundance.
This book brings these Goddesses to life, and celebrates a variety of abilities and strengths.
This book talks about life and death, about nature and the seasons, about love and revenge, and about the different stages of a woman’s life. The book also contains a lovely introduction, one that welcomes readers into the rich history of Ireland. Ancient Ireland was a place filled with magic and I must say that Ward and McGloin captured this sense of wonder on every page.
Also included in this book is a glossary that younger readers may find helpful if they’re coming across some new words, (Older readers may find this helpful too. We are never too old to learn something new!), and there’s a beautiful map of ancient Ireland too, making this text truly something to treasure.
Ward flawlessly writes about Ireland’s history as well as capturing the fiery, passionate, intelligent, powerful spirits of these figures and McGloin’s artwork is striking. The colours are rich and vivid, and her illustrations have brought the vastness of these figures to the forefront of every page. The illustrations capture the person, and their strength, as well as incorporating beautiful aspects of Ireland’s nature. I read this book from cover to cover several times over, but I also spent ages just flicking through the pages, looking at all of the pictures. There’s one or two that I would love to have framed on my wall! The stories are fascinating, and the artwork is eye-catching. That’s a brilliant combination if you ask me.
If you’re a fan of Irish mythology then this book belongs in your collection, and if you’re looking for an introduction to Irish mythology and wonder, look no further!
I highly recommend picking up a copy of this book, and I think it would make a beautiful present, remember Christmas is right around the corner.
Glorious Goddesses Of Ancient Ireland is a richly magical read and a stunningly visual treat.
I would recommend this book for anyone ages 8+.
I would like to thank the Beehive Books team for sending me a copy of this book to review.
Important Note – This is not an ad.
This is not sponsored.
This is not a paid review.
All thoughts and opinions shared are entirely my own.
You can order your very own copy of Glorious Goddesses Of Ancient Ireland written by Karen Ward and illustrated by Paula McGloin on www.beehivebooks.ie.
Social Links: @katelovesliterature @beehivebooks.ie @drkarenwardtherapist @paulamcgloin
A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of reviewing another book published by Beehive Books, The Song of Brigid’s Cloak, written by Catherine Ann Cullen and illustrated by Katya Swan.
You can read my review by clicking this link https://katelovesliterature.com/
Enjoy!
More Social Links: @catherineanncullen @katya_swan_illustrations
Katelovesliterature.com 