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The Little People reveals that the fairy folk are both enchanting and dangerous. This lavishly illustrated survey is packed with intriguing tales about all kinds of sprites, from fairy queens and brownies to lutins, mermaids, dwarves, and trolls.

Neil Philip has combed the lore of northern Europe for stories of human encounters with fairies, from Cherry of Zennor, who unwittingly worked in a fairy household, to Thomas the Rhymer, who spent seven years in fairyland and was given the gift of prophecy. Sumptuous images of the fairy world by William Blake and other classic artists are supplemented with newly commissioned drawings by Jacqueline Mair.

Gr 4 Up-This survey is both exhaustive and engaging. Philip defines fairies as "all kinds of magical beings who can take a human form" and confines his survey to the fairy folk of northern Europe. Each of the eight chapters begins with an explanatory note for the topic under discussion, be it "Fairy Neighbors," "Fairy Treasure," "Mischievous Fairies," etc., followed by brief but succinct retellings of tales that illustrate a particular trait or behavior. The book is handsomely decorated with full-color plates from 30 different artists, including Arthur Rackham, William Blake, Richard Doyle, Edmund Dulac, and George Cruikshank. Pencil drawings by Jacqueline Mair provide additional interest. Notes on fairy lore, fairy paintings, and a glossary of fairies are also included. In all, a well-written, attractive choice for anyone wishing to become better acquainted with this magical realm.-Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.