Book Review by Dr Phil Noone of ‘A True Fairy’s Tale’ By Glory Wolfe, published by Book Hub Publishing.
The Scene
Circular table. Stone seat. Rocky landscape visible between the trees, layered, inviting, mysterious, moon-like, unknown. Sun rays scorching my left arm. Bare shouldered as I write.
Reading
I’ve a new book by esteemed American author Glory Wolfe, titled: ‘A True Fairy’s Tale’. I thank Dr. Niall McElwee of Book Hub Publishing for giving me this opportunity to share this incredible book with you. I hold it in my hand. Silently soak in its spiritual wonder. It’s precious, powerful. Glancing lovingly at its cover, admiring it, peeping inside, reading, resting, imagining the created space of Willow Mist Isle, Crystal Falls and ‘Moon-Dancing’ as she explores her world and beyond in fun, curiosity and wonder.
To quote the great Irish writer and poet John O’Donohue, “a book is barely an object, it is a tender presence fashioned from words, the secret echoes of the mind” (O’Donohue 2000: XX1). Simmering under the surface of this book is a deep exploration of who we are, our perceptions, the masks we wear, our relationships and how these impact on our lives. Its many messages are hidden beneath a complex personal journey of reflection, thought and self-discovery.
On one level, it is like a detective ‘under-cover’ exploration of identity. On another level, it is a very spiritual book, where ‘Moon Dancing’ the mystical fairy, sets off on a journey of self-discovery to include shamanic teachings, chakra energy systems, dream interpretation, use of symbols, spirit animal guides, vision quest etc. It reveals Glory’s personal knowledge and experience of spirituality in a very easy to read manner.
It is an endearing mix of mysticism, spirituality and philosophy achieved in a most appealing way via the adventures of ‘Moon Dancing’, an effervescent fairy who thrives on fun, adventure, mischief and dance in her magical world. Captivating in its writing style – you’ll not want to put it down and may be, dare I say, a little tired the next day following an “all-nighter’ of fun and frolics with the dancing fairies.
The Cover
The cover contains a strong, powerful depiction of two swords, crossed at the centre. For me, this represents our spiritual and physical worlds, criss-crossing, united yet separate in our level of awareness but never disconnected. Cutting through stone, the swords break through many emotional barriers, exposing the often, hidden reality of ‘who we are’. Underneath, but encapsulated within the ancient framed cover is the recognisable logo of Book Hub publishing. And, of course, the prized author Glory Wolfe adorns the top, situated between the two swords, one black and one yellow. I must add that this is entirely my interpretation of the cover, its meaning and, indeed, the story of ‘Moon-Dancing’ as it unfolds. What is so special and unique about this book, is the ability of its words to speak to each one of us. It catches you unawares, throws you off balance and reconnects you to your inner-self in ways that often lie buried. It confronts and challenges your beliefs in a very non-judgemental way. But heed my warning – it has the potential to floor you with its honesty, its reality check of life and what is important within it.
The Beginning
This book opens with the words “Life itself is the most wonderful fairy tale” (Hans Christian Anderson iii). How simple, yet true. And then proceeds with Glory’s words “I invite you into my charming fairy’s tale” (Wolfe Vii).
Continuing…
Like a glass of sparkling water, this book has millions of effervescent bubbles, many never caught, but felt, tasted, imagined in the magical story of ‘Moon-Dancing’ and her wonderful friends. This book is an invitation to explore life, identity, relationships, and to change and challenge your views on spirituality. It is an invitation to share the adventures of ‘Moon-Dancing’ and her many friends – Karla, Merry Sunbeam, Little Pheonix Moss and many more. It deals with the very serious issue of controlling, domineering, abusive relationships, as explored through ‘Moon-Dancing’s relationship with Caden. It shows her disappointment, resentment, fury with his jealousy and how his overpowering suspiciousness contributes to the ultimate breakdown of their relationship. It captivates her need, search and desire for ‘true love’ and security. I love the way Glory Wolfe analyses the notion of ‘true love’ throughout this book and how she expresses a ‘blinkered belief’ in its attainment. This book speaks to everyone. It will resonate with some aspect of your own life as you read it. It contains a nugget of philosophical thought at the start of each chapter. Using a quote, for example, chapter 43, page 220, starts with “There is only one language, the language of the heart’ (Sai Baba). It is philosophical, spiritual, fun – all in one, a rare mix of writing genius.
To conclude
I loved this magical, fun-loving courageous fairy, called ‘Moon-Dancing’. So will you. Just pick up this book and begin to read. It will not disappoint. Reading this book will tickle you, make you laugh, let you contemplate gender identity, security, love, family, relationships, friendships, the power of nature and familiarity of home. It opens our imagination to a mystical sense of being. Just soak it up and let it explore “the secret echoes of your mind”.
I wish to thank Glory Wolfe for writing such a wonderful book. To Book Hub Publishing for sharing it with me. And to you, my readers for having this opportunity to share its wonders with you.
Good Night – The magic of ‘A True Fairy’s Tale’ awaits us all.
About the Reviewer
*Dr. Phil Noone is Senior Wellness Consultant with The Book Hub Publishing Group and a Programme Director and Lecturer in the Nursing Faculty at National University of Ireland, Galway.
