I am sure many of you are familiar with the remarkable tale of the Cottingley Fairies, and the photographs taken by two young cousins which caused such a storm the early 20th century. Now we can read Frances Griffith’s own account of these events in ‘Reflections on the Cottingley Fairies‘. Frances’ memoirs recall her initial encounters with the real Fairies of Cottingley Beck, and the subsequent creation of the photographs as a way to prove these encounters. Sadly, it is clear from reading that Frances was horrified at how the deception escalated, and was haunted for the rest of her life despite her best efforts to put the whole episode behind her and lead a normal life.
Obviously for anyone interested in Fairy lore it makes fascinating reading, particularly the details of the actual sightings – the ‘Little Men’ whom she saw on many occasions and of the ‘Pretty’ Fairies who could only sometimes be seen. Frances is sometimes frustratingly vague about details, and frequently goes off on tangents (although these do prove interesting glimpses into the social history of the era), but this is easily forgiven when you remember she was writing many years after the actual events. Where possible her daughter Christine Lynch has provided additional details to fill in the gaps and continued the story from where Frances left off. There is also a good collection of photographs reprinted in the book, including The Fairy Bower – the only photo said to be of the real Fairies. Above all, Frances considered the Fairies to be just another part of nature, and her memoirs offer significant insight to this enduring story.

Reflections on the Cottingley Fairies is available to buy here.

In a magical collaboration, Brian and Wendy Froud have drawn on their considerable artistic talents and many years of experience with the Faeries to bring us The Heart of Faerie Oracle. The box set contains 68 oracle cards and 160 page book, to help the reader connect with and experience the love and wisdom that comes from the hearts of Faeries. The oracle cards feature Brian’s artwork and Wendy’s accompanying text describes the emotional and practical nature of the cards and offers a variety of techniques for using the set.

Buy The Heart of Faerie Oracle from Amazon.co.uk

Inspired by the leaves and trees found in their native Australian forests, Leafy Creations brings you clothing and home accessories to ‘help bring out your inner magical creature…’. The wearables include skirts and waistcoats, hoodies and mittens. For your home, there are cosy leaf-shaped cushions and some really fantastic leafy blankets. Every item is handmade and custom creations are welcomed.

German ‘Pagan Folk’ group Faun have released a new acoustic album called Buch der Balladen. The CD contains 11 songs inspired by tales of trolls and elves, dragons and nymphs, including a version of La Belle Dame Sans Merci. It comes in a sumptuous digipak that has been designed to look like an old book. There are 44 pages of artwork and the lyrics in both German and English, and a wonderful John Bauer illustration on the cover.

Andrew Lang (1844 – 1912)

Inspired by Robert Kirk, author of The Secret Commonwealth of Elves Fauns and Fairies.

Welcome to our newest sponsor, Rachel’s Fairy Houses. Rachel Pace creates the most dainty dwellings for faerie folk complete with furniture and even lighting. Originally inspired by the faerie house from the film ‘Fairytale: A True Story’, Rachel has been building unique faerie houses since 2001. Talking about her work, Rachel says “Every house that I make has a story behind it. As I am making it I think of the fairy that might live there, what she likes to do, collect, her colors etc., and all that comes out in the final house. No two are exactly alike and each house has a distinct personality of its own. I think I fall in love with every one of them!”. Rachel recently received the ‘Best of 2009′ award from World of Froud. High praise indeed, and so worthy of these beautiful little houses. In fact, I quite wish I was small enough to live in one…

Verdant fairy forests. Whispering mountains. The fallen towers of ancient kings. Spirit-filled lakes. The distant strains of elven bards. For over thirty years, the fantasy art of Charles Vess has been acclaimed worldwide, his rich palette, striking compositions, and lavish detail second-to-none in the field. Vess has been the illustrator of choice for countless publishers and writers, and is perhaps best known for his collaborations with bestselling author Neil Gaiman, including the illustrated novel Stardust, whose major motion-picture adaptation from Paramount Pictures launched in Summer 2007.

This magnificent oversized hardcover edition is the ultimate presentation gallery for  Charles Vess‘ stunning visions, and features a forward by Suzanna Clarke (author of Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell).

Buy Drawing Down the Moon: The Art of Charles Vess from Amazon.co.uk

The new issue of Faeries and Enchantment Magazine is now available to buy. This issue includes an interview with beautiful and talented Emily Ovenden (Mediaeval Baebes, Pythia and Celtic Legend), with exclusive photography by Hayley Madden. There is also exclusive art by Marc Potts and Tamara Newman. There is an article on Nature Spirits by Danu Fox; Yuri Leitch tells us about Lord of the Fae Gwyn ap Nudd; and Felicity Fyr Le Fay goes on the hunt for Faery Men! There is a special feature on the world’s best faerie events – including South Africa’s first ever faerie festival. There is fashion by MTCoffinz, Twisted Twinkle, Vodabox & Nubia, plus clothing ideas for men are Unfurled. Browse the FAE Marketplace, and so much more in this gorgeous magazine!

* In Nigel Cawthorne’s ‘The Strange Laws of Old England‘.

I just adore this cute ‘grass’ rug from Vertbaudet, decorated with tiny 3D toadstools. Perfect for adding a little faerie magic to your home (and not just children’s rooms either!). I do think they have missed a trick by not putting the toadstools in a ring around the edge however!
Also from the same retailer is a gorgeous mushroom and elf duvet set (sadly only in cot bed size) and some sweet spotty bedlinen.