It’s been a while since my last newsletter so thought I would give you an update on my activities. First, my 2002 book, Sacred Wells: A Study in the History, Meaning and Mythology of Holy Wells & Water will be reissued in a second edition by Algora Publishing in June. This edition will have many new photographs as well as some additional text and will be available in both paperback and hardcover.

Two new projects I have undertaken include a cultural history of the Owens Valley Paiute and a book on the folklore of the sea. More information will be provided as they get nearer to completion. Upcoming travel includes a trip to Ireland in September/October and I have been approached to do a book on the folklore of Australia so may be heading there in 2010.

Some recent titles published over the last few months include a biography of Charles G. Leland (Charles G. Leland: The Man & the Myth), a book on amulets (The History and Use of Amulets, Charms and Talismans) and an expanded version of my book on architectural symbolism (Gargoyles, Grotesques and Green Men: Ancient Symbolism in European and American Architecture). All of my books may be ordered from any book shop or from the many on - line retailers. By the way, the first edition of Sacred Wells is no longer in print and should not be available to purchase although I still see it listed at Amazon.com and other on line retail outlets.

As always your questions/comments are welcome. You may contact me via email at gary_varner@yahoo.com or through my Auhorsden site (www.authorsden.com/garyrvarner).

Thank you and have a Happy Beltaine!

Gary