These are six brilliant and enthralling stories that, while making you both laugh and cry, also leave you desperate to know what happens next. A nineteenth-century Ireland is depicted; steeped in the supernatural, it's a place where both humans and fairies collide, both refusing to be defeated in their quest for the freedom to govern their own lives. We witness the friendship between Tipperary farmer Darby O’Gill and King Brian Connors of the Good People grow. These two, who first thought that the differences between them meant that they were forever mortal enemies, later realise that circumstances unite rather than divide them. The stories also celebrate the most powerful fairy of them all, the Banshee, who is not really the scary villain that people sometimes imagine, but rather a career-minded, kind-hearted messenger from the Otherworld. Brian McManus has made some changes to the original stories to present them to modern readers at their absolute best, while still remaining true to the spirit and intention of Herminie Templeton Kavanagh. These delightful tales of genuine Irish folklore, full of charm, wittiness, and poignancy, will appeal to children of all ages.
Ok, I have to admit something. I have never seen Darby O'Gill and the Little People.
I know! I should have to hand in my Irish card. It's a shocker. What can I say? I just never caught it live. I did plan to stream it once I'd read the book, but then I...didn't do that.
And I didn't do it largely because I can't imagine the movie being as sweet and goodhearted as these stories. Darby is not nearly as smart as he likes to make out he is, but he is a genuinely good guy, always ready to help a neighbour or befriend a lonesome fairy. The friendship that develops between him and King Brian is honestly heartwarming.
The tone of the stories reminds me of Michael Scott's folktales. These are full of the feel of Old Ireland without being twee and annoying. They're a really great read, and I think children would enjoy them - they might need a few things explained to them though!
A fantastic read, and I will get around to the movie one of these days...
Darby O'Gill and the Good People is available now. I received a free copy and am giving an honest review.
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