Mermaids: The Myths, Legends, and Lore - Hardcover

Alexander, Skye

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1440538573 ISBN 13: 9781440538575

Publisher: Adams Media, 2012

The allure and mystery of mermaids has taken hold of our psyche for ages. From the Irish merrows who come on land to search for human husbands to the fake Fiji Mermaid made popular by P.T Barnum, these sea maidens (and sometimes men) can be found in folklore and mythology from every tradition in the world.

Inside this captivating collection, complete with beautiful illustrations throughout, you'll discover the myths surrounding these enigmatic beings, explore the common symbols associated with them, and learn tales of merfolk from around the world. Dive into Mermaids and get swept away!

From the Author:

Mysterious, magical, and mesmerizingly beautiful, mermaids have enchanted humanity for thousands of years. No matter where you go on Planet Earth you'll hear stories of the elusive and evocative sea creatures, who are sometimes benevolent, sometimes destructive, but always alluring. They swim the seven seas, splash about in rivers and lakes, and even frolic in fountains and wells. And these tantalizing creatures play a more important role in today's society than you might think.Some researchers theorize that we're drawn to the dichotomy of light and dark that mermaids embody. These lovely ladies are simultaneously desirable and dangerous. They can bring good luck or disaster. Seafarers have long swapped stories about mermaids charming sailors with their heavenly singing, then smashing their ships and drowning the hapless seamen. Mermaid myths usually depict these sensuous sirens with a dual nature--they can be benevolent or malevolent, depending on what mood they're in at a given time. Like women, it's a mermaid's prerogative to change her mind--and when she does, watch out! As you explore the history of mermaids in the pages of this book, read the scores of colorful myths and legends about sea-beings, and chuckle at some of the oddities associated with them, you'll find yourself intrigued by these beguiling beings of the deep. But as you dive in, be careful. You never know what mysteries are lurking in the fathoms below.

From the Back Cover:

Mermaids have been a part of folklore for centuries. Where do the lovely creatures of the sea come from, and how have they captured the imaginations of people around the world? In this beautiful collection you'll explore the watery origins of these mysterious nymphs, from the streams and rivers of ancient Babylon to the shining seas of the New World and beyond.You'll enjoy beautiful aquatic illustrations, learn the myths surrounding these enigmatic beings, discover the common symbols associated with them, and learn tales of merfolk from around the world. Get swept away by Mermaids.

• Publisher: Adams Media
• Publication date: 2012
• ISBN 10: 1440538573
• ISBN 13: 9781440538575
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 224