In “The Islands of Magic: Legends, Folk and Fairy Tales from the Azores,” Elsie Spicer Eells masterfully collects and retells a vibrant tapestry of folklore from the enchanting Azores archipelago. The book is characterized by a lyrical prose style that immerses the reader in the rich tapestry of regional myths and tales, where the fantastical often intertwines with the everyday. Eells accentuates the cultural significance of these stories, showcasing their roles in preserving local identity against the backdrop of a rapidly modernizing world. The collection not only entertains but also serves as a crucial scholarly resource that highlights the unique cultural heritage of the Azores, drawing upon both oral traditions and literary sources from the early 20th century. Eells, an American author and folk storyteller, dedicated her craft to bringing lesser-known tales to a wider audience. Her work is influenced by her travels and her deep appreciation for folklore as a means of cultural expression. Eells's passion for the narratives that shape communities is palpable, and her scholarship reflects an understanding of how these tales weave into the fabric of identity, particularly in island cultures like those of the Azores. This book is highly recommended for readers and scholars interested in ethnography, folklore, and cultural studies. It not only serves as a delightful read but also as an important contribution to the understanding of Azorean heritage. Eells's engaging storytelling and deep respect for the source material ensure that these tales resonate with both descendants of the Azores and those encountering this folklore for the first time.
