Wayland

by Tony Mitton

[Rinn]

I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Also posted on my blog, Rinn Reads.

Just as the blurb says, this book is beautiful. The verse is stunning in itself, but combined with the gorgeous illustrations it really comes to life. For someone such as myself, who loves mythology and folklore, it would make a beautiful gift. I’d never heard the tale of Wayland before reading this – apparently it was brought to England by Vikings – and I hope that many others are exposed to the story through this book.

Honestly, the cover does not do the illustrations inside justice. John Lawrence is one of the leading wood-block engraving illustrators in the world and the exquisite illustrations within, which could tell a story all by themselves, reflect that.

Tony Mitton, who wrote the verse for the book, is an award-winning poet, and his words are the perfect combination with Lawrence’s artwork.

I would rate the book five out of five stars. Despite being short, it is wonderfully told and beautifully illustrated.