Scan barcode
crowyhead's review against another edition
5.0
Totally awesome! If you always loved Brian Froud's Faeries, I recommend checking this out. It's a companion to the Spiderwick novels, but even if you haven't read them, you will love this gorgeously illustrated field guide to magical creatures. The information remains true to established folklore about the various beasties, but Black and DiTerlizzi add their own creative details. I can think of a few people who I would be pleased to gift with this book (including myself!).
higgsminiminimus's review against another edition
adventurous
informative
mysterious
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
claerey's review
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
ricksilva's review against another edition
5.0
This is a companion book to the Spiderwick Chronicles novel series by DiTerlizzi and Black, with a few references to the stories, including an addendum by one of the main characters.
But primarily, this stands on its own as a gorgeous interpretation of the natural history of faerie and mythical creatures from elves to sea serpents to sprites and boggarts. DiTerlizzi's illustrations are lovely, and there are some very clever details. His merfolk were among my favorites, with their "hair" serving as gill filaments. There is a good mix of original ideas and traditional folklore in the descriptions, and some nice hints of stories to be discovered.
This would serve as an excellent roleplaying supplement for a GM who enjoys homebrewing creature stats, and it is an entertaining and inspiring read on its own.
But primarily, this stands on its own as a gorgeous interpretation of the natural history of faerie and mythical creatures from elves to sea serpents to sprites and boggarts. DiTerlizzi's illustrations are lovely, and there are some very clever details. His merfolk were among my favorites, with their "hair" serving as gill filaments. There is a good mix of original ideas and traditional folklore in the descriptions, and some nice hints of stories to be discovered.
This would serve as an excellent roleplaying supplement for a GM who enjoys homebrewing creature stats, and it is an entertaining and inspiring read on its own.
sphynxreads's review against another edition
informative
mysterious
relaxing
medium-paced
4.0
A beautifully illustrated and intriguing collection. I wish it was thicker than it was, but the beauty of the Spiderwick books is that much is left to the imagination, and the parts that we are aware of provide enough mystery for us to wonder.
toad_maiden's review against another edition
4.0
This was a re-read for me, but just as lovable as the first time. Such delightful illustrations and the text is equal parts whimsical imagination and well researched folklore--which is truly Holly Black's forte. A modern fantasy classic.
miciahsreads's review against another edition
5.0
i love this guide! the artwork is absolutely astounding! love love love!
beckylouise2904's review against another edition
5.0
Absolutely beautiful book, wonderful illustrations and a brilliant accompanying volume to the series.