The immense popularity of the multi-genre Harry Potter book series has opened the door for authors writing on themes even tangentially related to the bespectacled hero and his exploits. One of these authors is Christina McCarthy, a Neo-Druid of Irish descent currently living in Pingelly, a small town in rural Western Australia. “Forbidden Magic: A Druid Born” (Fremantle Press) is the first in a series of 9 books recounting the adventures of 12 year old heroine Regan, an apprentice Druid living 2000 years ago in ancient Erin (Ireland). Whereas Harry Potter is often timid and cautious, Regan resembles more his feisty and fearless sidekick Hermione Granger. Whilst drawing on the eternal themes of The Quest, Magic and The Search for the Divine, McCarthy opens the doorway to a previously unknown earthy yet magical world of power, mystery and awe. Strong characters, humour and fast-paced action keep the reader interested throughout. The author’s painstaking research enables her to show us the authentic environment, flora, fauna and human diet extant in Druidic Ireland. “Forbidden Magic” is a book for children, grown-ups and Celtic Reconstructionists alike. A Druid is born.
Forbidden Magic: A Druid Born
Fremantle Press
ISBN: 978 1 863682 95 4
Audio interviews with the author:
http://www.forbidden.mypodcast.com/ 13 minutes
http://johnmcnairshow.mypodcast.com/ 41 minutes
Tags: , book, celtic, druid, erin, harry potter, ireland, magic
