552 page hard cover book in very good secondhand condition. Reader’s Digest 1977 reprinted 1979.

This is an endlessly fascinating book that is perfect for dipping in and out of. It’s a bit like a massive folklore magazine, rather than a book you’d sit down and read from cover to cover. The book is split into three parts – the first covers ancient superstitions, creatures, plants and festivals. The second (largest) section covers regional stories from across Great Britain and the Isle of Man, such as alleged hauntings, origins of place names and local festivals. The final section describes key figures in British folklore. It’s a large book but very easy to read and illustrated with drawings and black and white photos throughout. The book summarises stories and describes myths and folklore in a highly readable, matter-of-fact way. There are lots of interesting explanations about how current day festivals, phrases and superstitions may have developed.