Welcome back to White Rose of Avalon, my Darlings. For today’s blog post, I will be sharing my review of the book Among the Mermaids: Facts, Myths, and Enchantments from the Sirens of the Sea by Varla Ventura.
This is a book that has been on my radar for quite a while, especially given my absolute adoration of all things Mermaid-related. It is honestly one of the last books that collects Mermaid folklore stories that I had left to add to my collection. I think I may only have one or two more to go as of right now. I have to say I really enjoyed reading this book. The format was wonderful, with the author interspersing sections of facts related to Mermaids and all things nautical and Sea-life oriented in between the stories shared.
The actual stories shared were a mix of well-known (at least to Mermaid obsessives) folktales and less popular tales, making some of the information feel fresh, even to a seasoned Mermaid lover. However, the only stories I had never heard of were ones relayed by the author from interviews with other people who love Mermaids. That is another place the book shone, as it was not only the folklore, but also had stories directly from people who feel a deep connection with Mermaids! Reading about other Mermaid lovers talking about their history in the water and why they have always felt a kinship with Mermaids is a special treat. There is a sense of community formed by reading other people’s accounts of being drawn in by the Mermaids, as I know that I share something special in common with these people.
Beyond the actual content of the book, I really enjoyed the artwork that was placed throughout. There were several drawings of Mermaids, many from iconic illustrations and classic art, that made the book beautiful to flip through. Oh, and there is also a lengthy list of books that the author recommends at the end of the book, which is always enjoyable for me. I love digging through those sections to find more books to read on a subject I adore!
So, I would most definitely recommend reading this book if you truly adore Mermaids. I also look forward to reading some of the author’s other folklore books. I hope you have enjoyed this short review of Among the Mermaids. Have you read this book? Do you want to read it now? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!
Note on Image: The image at the top of the post is the book cover. I found the picture on https://www.amazon.com/Among-Mermaids-Facts-Enchantments-Sirens/dp/1578635454.
LINK TO AVALONIAN ROSE FAERY MYSTERIES PATREON: patreon.com/AvalonianRoseFaeryMysteries
Further Reading
- Among the Mermaids: Facts, Myths, and Enchantments from the Sirens of the Sea by Varla Ventura