The Druid Network reviews a new book on folklore by Gary R. Varner from Publish America.

As with other books by the same author, this is a book based upon broad research into the subject, stretching across the world. What results is a fascinating weave of stories and images, descriptions of sites and associated tales, that leaves a sense of a thousand deities whispering in the air. Because it is so broad a sweep, the positive outcome is a overreaching perspective of the patterns and commonalities held between human communities - our ancestors - all around the world. The disadvantage is that there is seldom enough detail to satisfy my curiosity about a good handful of these sites and spirits; however, we are also given glimpses into stories, gods and locations that we did not previously know. As such, the book is a sound overview and provocation to research more deeply ourselves, to find alternative visions, tales and interpretations, to find out more about the sacred currents, their depths and importance - both to our ancestors and to ourselves. The author's notations are comprehensive, allowing us easily to follow the clues. A valuable piece of work.

14th September 2005