ALL MY BONES, second bookseller/sleuth cozy mystery set in Georgia

ALL MY BONES (An Old Juniper Bookshop Mystery #2)
P. J. NELSON
Minotaur Books (non-affiliate Bookshop.org link)
$14.99 ebook, available now

Rating: 4* of five

The Publisher Says: Madeline Brimley, new owner of a bookstore in a small Georgia town, finds herself playing sleuth when a friend is charged with the murder of a much-disliked woman.

Madeline Brimley recently inherited a bookstore in Enigma, Georgia, is embarking on her second career, after her first one (acting) founders upon the metaphorical rocks. Settling in, Madeline recruits her friend Gloria Coleman, the local Episcopal priest, to help her plant azaleas in the front yard of the old Victorian that houses the bookstore. Turning the soil, however, uncovers the body of one Beatrice Glassie, a troublesome woman who has been missing for the past six months.

When her friend Gloria is arrested for the murder, Madeline is determined to prove her innocence and, as she quickly finds out, there aren't many people in town who hadn't wanted to kill Bea Glassie at one point or another. And the very expensive and rare first edition of a particular volume of Grimm's Fairy Tales—ordered by the victim and her sister is somehow tied to the grim death. With the help of her not-quite-boyfriend, a local lawman, and her deceased aunt's best friend, Madeline plans to set a trap to catch the real murderer—before she becomes the next victim.

I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA NETGALLEY. THANK YOU.

My Review: BOOKED FOR MURDER is Author Nelson's debut bookseller/sleuth cozy mystery set in Georgia. Building on its very pleasant foundations, this tale of a local harpy-cum-harridan's unregretted death takes Madeline Brimley into dark corners of her newly-returned-to hometown. Her buddy Gloria, the Episcopalian priest, gets accused...not very convincingly...of the crime. Not so fast says our intrepid actress manquée-turned-bookseller, and swings into action.

I absolutely love that she used to babysit Billy, the guy now running for sheriff! I love the depth of field that is developed in this second entry in the series. Her interest in David, the local master gardener, is a relief...it's usually the lawman who gets involved with the amateur sleuth which...just no. It's an ethical violation that would get him bounced from his job and void his case investigations in reality. Of course, this isn't reality.

As in the first book the suspense-meter's staying low. I'm not against that in a cozy mystery where we're reading for ma'at and vibes. The cast is developing nicely, their quirks settling in to a rhythm of believable traits by consistency of notice from the rest of the cast. (Nothing destroys an illusion faster than no one in town ever commenting on someone's weird little quirks, eg Philomena's sapphic relationship with the late Aunt Rose.) Madeline's first-person narrative voice is a high point in this series. I looked forward to spending time with her. That failed acting career has done its part in giving Madeline crime-sleuthing skills, like seriously good sight-reading of materials she's briefly shown or sees, and decent mimicry skills.

I don't think her concentration was ever that strong...imagine needing reminding that the point of uncovering something is to exonerate her jailed friend!...but I totally bought in to the resolution of the killing being rooted in old, deep, toxic hatred. Small towns are great at breeding that kind of proximity toxicity.

A wonderful way to feed your Kindle and your head in the down moments of the slide into the Yule celebration itself. Get the first one, too, but you needn't read it first if you're a cozy fan of long standing.

THE BIG BOOK OF TAROT SYMBOLS: The Beginner’s Guide to Decoding the Cards

THE BIG BOOK OF TAROT SYMBOLS: The Beginner’s Guide to Decoding the Cards
LIZ DEAN
Fair Winds Press (non-affiliate Bookshop.org link)
$26.99 all editions, available now

Rating: 4.5* of five

The Publisher Says: The Big Book of Tarot Symbols is a beginner’s guide to the most fun and mysterious aspect of tarot written by bestselling tarot author, Liz Dean. Discover the magic of tarot symbols with bestselling author Liz Dean.

Ever noticed a symbol on your tarot card—like the cat with the Queen of Wands, the moon with the High Priestess, or even the number X on the Wheel of Fortune? You’re not alone! These symbols speak directly to our intuition, making them key to unlocking deeper meanings in your readings. Symbols are the “language” of tarot, and each one—whether it’s a pattern, a plant, an animal, or a color—holds its own unique significance.

In The Big Book of Tarot Symbols, bestselling author Liz Dean guides you through over 200 tarot symbols, showing you how to interpret them for powerful insights and personal guidance. By understanding these symbols, you’ll not only strengthen your connection to the cards but also enhance your ability to give more intuitive, meaningful readings.

Here’s what you’ll find inside:

A beginner-friendly introduction to tarot symbols, plus easy-to-follow instructions on how to use the book.

A comprehensive explanation of the symbols and their meanings for all 78 cards in both the Major and Minor Arcana.

Practical tools to help you master tarot’s symbolic “operating system” and provide more accurate, insightful readings.

Dive into the world of tarot symbols and elevate your readings with this essential guide!

I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.

My Review: I've used tarot cards for over fifty years.

What the hell, you old materialist, hiding a spiritual side all this time?, some who know me well will think, or say if they feel bold.

Nope. It's all randomness. The iconography is totally invented, not that long ago (the eighteenth century saw the rise of purpose-made cartomantic decks of cards); the symbology draws on ancient sources, but what does not? We take old things and repurpose them all the time. No difference in this case.

Doesn't lessen relevance and usefulness of the symbology...we're pattern-finding creatures, us humans, and patterns are random chance put through our perceptual filters. Constellations, for a wonderful example; those beautiful designs of bright twinkly stars are tortally inventions of humans looking up at the sky without knowing the stars are all unimaginably far away from us and from each other. Doesn't mean you can't steer your way across the world by using the made-up patterns.

So does tarot tell, predict, or eventuate events in our lives? Nope. Does it afford you the chance to externalize the issue most perplexing, upsetting, angering, frightening you? Yep. Easily manipulable symbols make organizing complex or charged thoughts less fraught.

Liz Dean has written a lot about her system of divination by tarot. Always take your own ideas and insights more seriously than those of people selling things to you until you've determined for yourself how well the system they're recommending to you fits into your needs. That does require asking yourself the hard question, "what is it I'm looking for by asking for this answer I seek?"

That is the value that tarot can offer to you.

take a gander at where we're going

I think you're smart enough to figure out how to use this symbological system responsibly.

the Major Arcana

some Minor Arcana cards

THE WORLDS OF HAYAO MIYAZAKI: The Influences and Inspiration Behind the Iconic Films

THE WORLDS OF HAYAO MIYAZAKI: The Influences and Inspiration Behind the Iconic Films
NICOLAS RAPOLD
Frances Lincoln Ltd (non-affiliate Bookshop.org link)
$35.00 all editions, available now

Rating: 5* of five

The Publisher Says: An in-depth collection of the rich influences and sources of inspiration behind one of animated cinema’s all-time greats, and Japanese cinema’s most popular cultural export. Explore the inspirations behind the work of the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, one of animated cinema’s all-time great creators.

Often called the godfather of animation, Miyazaki is able to imagine and populate worlds like no other director or animator. His films, from My Neighbour Totoro to the Oscar-winning Spirited Away and The Boy and The Heron, are deeply original, each conjuring up their own complete and entrancing version of reality.

This book journeys through the rich mix of cultural, historical and artistic influences that shape Miyazaki’s storytelling. From Japanese folklore and childhood memories to architecture, classic cinema, literature and political commentary, it reveals how Miyazaki’s deeply personal vision creates layered worlds that somehow feel both fantastical and grounded in truth.

With insight into his process, visual language and recurring themes—including nature, flight, girlhood, resistance and renewal —The Worlds of Hayao Miyazaki offers fans and film lovers a deeper understanding of the imagination behind the magic.

A celebration of creative freedom, storytelling without limits, and the enduring power of animation.

I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.

My Review: If you are not a Miyazaki fan already, this book could make you one. (But seriously, how can anyone not be a fan after seeing Spirited Away?) I'm willing to bet most all of us have at least one film fan, animation fan, Japanese-culture maven, in our gifting circle. Any of them will appreciate this beauty.

what we'll see on the journey

I'm sure we're all aware of animation's tremendous popularity. A safe bet to give a teen giftee is this lovely, immersive story of how the art of Miyazaki sprang from th art Miyazaki has seen and spoken lovingly about.

The publisher doesn't offer lots of spreads for publicity, understandably, but there are some lovely ones to take a look at:

It's great value for money spent, assuming you opt for the tree book version; the ebookmis a bit cranky and not as fluidly designed.

A very exciting gift to get, and one you'll be thanked for in longer terms than most gifts.

TINY NATURE: Discovering Nature's Hidden World Through the Lens of Macrophotography

TINY NATURE: Discovering Nature's Hidden World Through the Lens of Macrophotography
JAMIE ROSECRANS
Wellfleet Press (non-affiliate Bookshop.org link)
$35.00 all editions, available now

Rating: 5* of five

The Publisher Says: Tiny Nature is a journey into the hidden world of the forest floor through the captivating lens of macrophotography. Marvel at the mysterious organisms of the forest floor, revealed in breathtaking macrophotography.

The beauty of the forest goes far beyond trees and wildlife. If you look closely—even closer!—the world beneath your feet holds tiny ecosystems that play a vital role in nature. To see them in all their glory, Tiny Nature harnesses the power of macrophotography. The term “macro” means large, but in photography, it refers to creating large reproductions of small subjects. It is the art of taking extreme close-up photos where the size of the subject on the camera sensor is life-size or greater. With this lens, take a closer look to see the wonders you’ve been missing.

Tiny Nature is a stunning display of the beauty and complexity of the natural world. More than just a photography book, every incredible photo offers insightful narratives that delve into the ecological significance of these miniature landscapes. With a keen eye for detail and an artistic vision, talented macrophotographer Jamie Rosencrans showcases a captivating collection of photographs along with guidance to gain a deeper appreciation for the forest floor. Unveil a mesmerizing microcosm teeming with life, including:

Enigmatic slime molds straddling the boundary between the world of fungi and animals through unique lifecycles and behaviors

Poetically sculptural fungi with a wide diversity and present year-round wherever rain and fungal spores coexist

Romantic, brightly colored lichens, from deep greens to radiant reds, that cling to fences and tree branches

Friendly gastropods such as snails, slugs, and more!

Every leaf, pebble, and tiny inhabitant has a story of resilience, beauty, and the timeless dance of life. Be inspired as you enter the heart of the forest floor and see the sheer wonder of nature’s design.

I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.

My Review: Not interacting with Meta/Facebook properties does mean I miss Instagram phenoms like @this_forest_floor, aka the author. Too bad...I'd like to see her work on the regular, but will not give fuel to that traitorous fuck Zuck.

I'm glad the publisher made the DRC available. I like interesting takes on Nature. This look at the reality of the tiny stuff we largely ignore is fascinating. A lot of y'all won't enjoy the creepy-crawlies or the moistness of it all. Me, I'm more curious about the weirdos than the cute fluffy boring ones.

contents...no, she doesn't say "icky little moist things" anywhere

What this book will do for the giftee is to discuss the realms of life we don't see much, with someone who knows a good deal about it. The focus is on the weird stuff, the way she takes their picture, the challenges of life at a scale we simply don't experience.

Look at these...really look, see them as the miraculous little survivors they are:

the slime molds

Not for everyone, but I'm not including the soil animals, or the fungi, because they're so very moist. I promise your science nerd giftee that they look great, though.

THE MATHEMATICIANS' LIBRARY: The Books That Unlocked The Power Of Numbers, illustrated to a fare-thee-well

THE MATHEMATICIANS' LIBRARY: The Books That Unlocked The Power Of Numbers
THOMAS K. BRIGGS
Ivy Press (non-affiliate Bookshop.org link)
$40.00 all editions, available now

Rating: 5* of five

The Publisher Says: A lavishly illustrated compendium of the most significant publications that have informed mathematical knowledge throughout history.

Discover the story of mathematics like never before with The Mathematicians’ Library, an extraordinary collection that chronicles the evolution of mathematical thought and its profound impact on the world. This expertly curated anthology brings together the most influential works and authors from across history, showcasing the journey of mathematical discovery from ancient tablets to contemporary volumes.

The Mathematicians’ Library takes you through the pages of history, featuring groundbreaking works like Euclid’s Elements, Fibonacci’s Liber Abaci, Hilbert’s Foundations of Geometry, and Mandelbrot’s The Fractal Geometry of Nature. Each book offers a unique glimpse into how mathematics has shaped human civilization, guiding everything from transportation and commerce to art, science, and beyond.

Mathematics is the invisible force that governs our daily lives, influencing everything from the weather forecasts we trust to the technology we depend on. It has been a cornerstone of human progress, evolving through centuries of research, discovery, and collaboration across cultures. This book reveals that legacy by presenting works that have changed the way we understand our world, from ancient knowledge inscribed on clay tablets, the contributions of Babylonian, Greek, Roman, Chinese, Islamic, and Maya scholars, The Mathematicians’ Library offers unparalleled access to the greatest minds in mathematics—Plato, Pythagoras, Euclid, Hypatia, Galileo, Einstein, and more.

The Mathematicians’ Libraryis more than just a collection; it's a journey through the intellectual milestones that have defined our understanding of the world. Whether you're a scholar, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about the forces that shape our lives, this collection will captivate and inspire. Unlock the secrets of mathematics and discover the brilliance behind the numbers that rule our world.

Table of contents:
Introduction
The Origins of Mathematics
Prehistoric
The Global Evolution of Mathematics (Babylon, Egypt, Greece, Rome, China, India, Islam, Maya, Medieval Europe)
The Scientific Revolution
Modern Mathematics
The Future
Bibliography
Index

I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.

My Review: I got mathphobia from my mother very early. I've used the established systematic desensitization technique of slowly increasing my exposure to it as a means of getting away from the extreme societal hazard of innumeracy. Goddesses please bless Author Paulos for writing that book I've linked to! It truly changed my life for the better.

That's one reason I asked for the DRC of this book. It's a seemingly unending process, this systematic desensitization, as ignoring it for very long will see my results evaporate...though they come back more and more quickly each time. This beautifully illustrated compendium of materials related to concepts I think most of us are noddingly acquainted with was a top-up.

If you're not a mathphobe like me, you might know one. You might also know a mathphile...I'm told they exist. Curious creatures I'm sure I do not know myownself. No matter, I think your science nerd bestie deserves a gorgeous work like this. It celebrates the tool they use the most.

These are the publicity samples the publisher provides. I think you'll agree that a non-fiction gift book about math is best illustrated in this demonstrative-of-concepts way. I found myself more focused on images than text...but remember I'm phobic about math. I would be.

A gift item for the biggest nerd you know and love! I'd get them the tree book, the design rendered onto the ebook looks...clunky. It's an option but not an ideal one.

Yuletide glory will be yours when gifting this one to the right giftee.

DRAGONS: A Handbook of History & Lore from Basilisks to Wyverns, beautiful woodcut art of the worlds favorite mythical beasts

DRAGONS: A Handbook of History & Lore from Basilisks to Wyverns
AGNES HOLLYHOCK
publisher (non-affiliate Bookshop.org link)
$19.99 all editions, available now

Rating: 5* of five

The Publisher Says: Dragons is your beautifully illustrated guide to these mythical creatures and their lore across cultures and centuries. Discover the ancient lore and cultural myths behind dragons—the world’s most mysterious and ubiquitous creatures—in this stunningly illustrated handbook.

For millennia, dragons have been considered real, appearing in legends and myths across cultures and societies, including Central America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Why are these creatures so popular, and what do they reveal about human nature?

Dragons offers a deep dive into the imaginative world of dragons and explores their vivid lore and myths across a wide variety of cultures. Through detailed descriptions and original artwork, learn all about these mysterious and powerful creatures, including:

Historical Tales and Legends

Dragons in Ancient Cultures

European Dragon Lore

Asian Dragon Myths

African and Polynesian Dragons

Dragon-Related Symbols

And more!

Featuring beautiful illustrations and a comprehensive appendix of notable dragon sites around the world, this easy-to-use and informative handbook is perfect for fantasy enthusiasts and the dragon curious. From their appearance in ancient myths to contemporary fantasy works, discover how dragons have influenced human culture across the globe.

The Folklore Legends series summons the mythical, magical, and mysterious creatures of lore out of the shadows with in-depth explorations of their stories and histories. Featuring original, woodcut illustrations and tales both famous and forgotten, these display-worthy volumes reveal the common traits, cultural variations, and appearances of these legendary beings across time and around the world.

I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.

My Review: Is there anything more certain to get a limbic response from a modern person than a dragon? Like dinosaurs for little kids, these monsters are not real (in the sense that you're not able to go anywhere in the world to see a living one) so the anxiety induced by a giant predator is manageable. We watch horror movies...or the news...for more threatening anxiety hits. Dragons and their legends add many layers of padding for the anxiety, so feel fun, almost friendly. After all you see tons of dragon media, like the Dragonriders of Pern series that's run for decades, all the way to the How to Train Your Dragon media franchise for the young ones.

We like to be scared. But only in fantasy. Dragons fit the need humans have for this fantasy of risk. A survey of the myth structures that deliver the shiver safely like this book is ideal for the YA market. This book is also beautiful, illustrated with woodcuts that capture the mythic element of the dragon lore we all love.

It makes for a lovely added layer of pleasure in the reading experience. The ebook looks fine on my tablet...I doubt a standard Kindle/Kobo would do that well with it, being black-and-white, but certainly wouldn't cause problems with the reading process.

But what a loss not to see this beautiful enhancing art in color!

A treat for any 12-year-old or older dragon-loving reader, fantasy fan, or just someone who likes reading about nyths and legends from around the world.

THE FANTASICAL SAFARI: Wander through 5 of the most remote habitats to meet more than 80 amazing animals

THE FANTASICAL SAFARI: Wander through 5 of the most remote habitats to meet more than 80 amazing animals
LUCY BROWNRIDGE (illus. Kristjana S Williams)
Wide Eyed Editions (non-affiliate Bookshop.org link)
$30.00 hardcover, available now

Rating: 5* of five

The Publisher Says: Step into a world where reality and myth collide. From powerful elephants and cunning foxes to towering giants and legendary dragons, The Fantastical Safari is a vibrant, beautifully illustrated book that brings science, storytelling, and adventure together. From the bestselling author of The Wonder Garden comes the incredible The Fantastical Safari!

Step into some of the hardest to reach landscapes on earth and meet the extraordinary creatures who live there. Discover how they survive and thrive in some of the strangest, most remote and unusual places in the world.

This book uncovers the science and stories behind some of the world’s most fascinating animals - from the tree kangaroo in the highlands of Papua New Guinea to the vampire ground finch in the Galapagos Islands. Alongside breath-taking illustrations, readers will explore different destinations where every day consists of endurance, perseverance and survival for the animals and plants that live there.

With its stunning design, engaging storytelling and fascinating facts, this book encourages young readers to see the world in a whole new way. Whether exploring solo or sharing the adventure with family, this book is a gateway to curiosity, discovery and endless imagination.

Locations include:

The Mariana Trench

The Greenland Ice Shelf

The Galapagos Islands

The Highlands of Papua New Guinea

The Sahara Desert

I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.

My Review: I'm deeply interested in the natural world (as long as I don't have to sleep in it). I found this interesting book about the extreme environments on our planet left me enrapt for hours after reading it...and the artwork...!

The mere existence of bioluminescence should evoke wonder in everyone who learns of it. There are many wonders in the world and this book makes them feel immediate, new, even to someone to whom their existence is not news. What must that say about the effect the package of art, text, and science will have on its six-year-old intended audience? I'd reserve it for the brightest of them, less worry about an eight-year-old or older needing significant assistance with reading it.

No one of any age needs assistance appreciating the artwork:

the most amazing place in all the world

It really amazes me that anyone can claim to be bored in a world where animals produce their own light:

And the other bits of Planet Earth are just as amazing. Frozen "wastes" or roasting deserts or humid jungles...the way life burgeons should give any thinking person a frisson of delight, a fillip of excitement at learning of it.

The artwork is packed with the sort of details that kids batten on detecting (and pointing out to you ad infinitum). It's a bargain at the price, for the pleasure and the sneaky education it will give a kid.

MYTHOLOGY LAND: 12 classic legends reimagined, beautiful Yule gift!

MYTHOLOGY LAND: 12 classic legends reimagined
CLAIRE COCK-STARKEY (Illus. Pham Quang Phuc)
Frances Lincoln Children's Books (non-affiliate Bookshop.org link)
$35.00 all editions, available now

Rating: 4.5* of five

The Publisher Says: Mythology Land is a large-format gift book filled with classic myths and exquisitely illustrated maps for children to pore over.

Mythology Land opens the gates to the magical lands of all the characters and creatures of myth.

These expertly retold stories are perfect for bedtime, and each tale is followed by an exquisitely illustrated map of its world. You can drop into Midgard and explore the land of the giants with Thor, run from Baba Yaga in the Deep Dark Forest, and follow the Yangtze river to see which animal will win the great race. What wonderful things will you find along the way?

Beautiful, stylish, and vibrant illustrations adorn each page, as the text transports readers to faraway lands of mystery, fantasy, and magic—and the level of detail in the maps of these lands means this title will be lovingly pored over time and time again.

The stories include:

Rama & Sita (Hindu)

The Great Race (Chinese)

The Trojan Horse (Greek)

Quetzalcoatl Brings Food to the World (Aztec)

The Great Maui (Polynesian)

Thor and the Land of the Giants (Norse)

The Tale of Blodeuwedd (Welsh)

Baba Yaga (Slavic)

Anansi and the Sky God (Ghanaian)

The Story of Isis and Osiris (Egyptian)

The Grateful Crane (Japanese)

The Legend of Sedna (Inuit)

I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.

My Review: A beautiful exercise in retelling a variety of cultures' myths. I felt drawn in to these retellings, and greatly appreciated the artwork. It's another case of how much you spend versus how much you get...it's a bit more than most but it really looks it.

A few spreads as examples:

Luxe items like this book are excellent gifts because they look more expensive than their actual cost. I'd choose the tree book because it's guaranteed to look lovely, where the tablet the book is viewed on will make a huge difference.

ASTROLOGICA: An Encyclopedia of Myths and Legends From the Planets, Stars and Skies

ASTROLOGICA: An Encyclopedia of Myths and Legends From the Planets, Stars and Skies
SUKI FERGUSON (illus. Camelia Pham)
Wide Eyed Editions (non-affiliate Bookshop.org link)
$30.00 all editions, available now

Rating: 4* of five

The Publisher Says: Astrologica is a visually stunning illustrated guide to the stories behind zodiac signs and systems from around the world.

Big, bold, and beautiful, this is the enthralling celestial follow-up to Mythologica: Amazon's No. 1 Children's Non-Fiction Book of the Year 2019.

How did the moon influence mighty emperors in Ancient China? Why are star signs so popular around the world? How did constellations help early seafarers sail safely across the vast Pacific? Blending science and storytelling, Astrologica introduces you to the marvels of our cosmos like you’ve never seen them before.

This gorgeously illustrated book is designed to introduce young stargazers to the celestial. Across the magical chapters, you'll learn about the antics of ancient gods, indigenous traditions, and scientific breakthroughs. You’ll delve into zodiac lore as you journey around the globe, from Mali to Hawai’i, Norway, and Australia. You’ll also travel through time, visiting early civilisations and empires to learn about the dawn of storytelling itself—and that's just the start.

Astrologica includes:

• The history of astronomy and astrology, including ancient rites and customs

• The global star-lore behind famous constellations

• The lore behind the Tropical and Chinese zodiac systems, plus their dates, traits, and quirks

• Stories of the gods and goddesses associated with the planets

• How stars have served as maps, clocks, and calendars for millennia

Featuring over 100 pages of unforgettable artwork, fascinating facts, and powerful stories, this book is the perfect gift for curious young minds aged 8+.

I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.

My Review: I don't believe in astrology. I do feel very sure some things aren't explainable by science...yet...because we don't know how to frame the questions. In the meantime, we have other existing systems to give the unusual coincidence a context our simple brains can comprehend.

Giving this beautiful book to its intended audience, kids eight years old and up, seems...fraught...to me. I'm not the least bit comfortable educating children into belief in any kind of supernatural stuff; I would not do this to any child in my authority.

I am not everyone. I offer this beautiful, costly book for you to consider, more especially for you or for another adult; but that is not my call. The art is gorgeous, as expected, and the stories well retold.

From here it's all you and your desire for your juvenile giftee.

See what I mean? Beautiful, just to have around!