The Weirdstone of Brisingamen was the first children's book by Alan Garner and was originally published in 1960. Set in Cheshire on Alderley Edge, an area well known to the author, the reader is taken on an adventure into a world inhabited by an array of characters primarily from Welsh, Nordic and Cheshire myths and legends.
The story begins with the 'Legend of Alderley' - the tale of farmer who encountered a wizard who wanted to purchase his horse. While in the wizard's cave the farmer was allowed to take some precious stones in payment for the horse but he also inadvertently removed the Firefrost.
When Susan and Colin stayed on a farm with Gowther and Bess it soon became obvious that strange and possibly dangerous forces were gathering in the area. While the children explored the Edge they encountered Selina Place who tried to entice the children into her car. On another occasion they were chased by the svart-alfar (goblins) until the wizard, Cadellin, rescued them, showed them Fundindelve and told them about the missing Firefrost - the Weirdstone of Brisingamen.
When the stone was stolen Susan and Colin are determined to find it to return to Cadellin. During their often dangerous adventure they encounter dwarves, witches, goblins and elves among the host of magical and mythical characters. The sequel to this story is The Moon of Gomrath.
No comments:
Post a Comment