Girls Who Slay Monsters : Daring Tales of Ireland’s Forgotten Goddesses by Ellen Ryan

£20.00

Unsung stories from ancient Irish myths re-imagined for nine to twelve-year olds

There was a time when tales of Ireland’s mythical goddesses – their astonishing powers, bravery, and unbreakable bonds with nature – were famous, in Ireland and beyond. But over time, these stories were lost, often replaced or rewritten to make room for male warriors and kings. Until Now.

Girls Who Slay Monsters brings these heroes of Irish mythology back to vibrant, magical life. From Éire, Ireland’s fierce namesake, and Bé Binn, a giant who overcame her bullies, to Badb, a gleefully gruesome death prophet, and Bé Mannair, a gender-fluid spy who challenged an entire army. These are goddesses of many shapes, skin shades and sizes, from every corner of ancient Ireland, whose daring still inspires today.

Stand by their sides as they wield magic, fight monsters, and protect the powerless – and you might just discover that you, too, are a force of nature.

Unsung stories from ancient Irish myths re-imagined for nine to twelve-year olds

There was a time when tales of Ireland’s mythical goddesses – their astonishing powers, bravery, and unbreakable bonds with nature – were famous, in Ireland and beyond. But over time, these stories were lost, often replaced or rewritten to make room for male warriors and kings. Until Now.

Girls Who Slay Monsters brings these heroes of Irish mythology back to vibrant, magical life. From Éire, Ireland’s fierce namesake, and Bé Binn, a giant who overcame her bullies, to Badb, a gleefully gruesome death prophet, and Bé Mannair, a gender-fluid spy who challenged an entire army. These are goddesses of many shapes, skin shades and sizes, from every corner of ancient Ireland, whose daring still inspires today.

Stand by their sides as they wield magic, fight monsters, and protect the powerless – and you might just discover that you, too, are a force of nature.

About the Author 

Ellen Ryan is a journalist and contributor to the Irish Times and Irish Independent. She has a passion for Irish myth and loves to visit archaeological sites (though she always brings a raincoat). Along with her husband and daughter, Ellen is lucky to live by the sea in Co. Wicklow, where she can keep an eye out for sea gods. While writing this book, Ellen was asked if she would use her birth name Ryan – daughter of her father – or Meaney – wife of her husband. But she is also Ellen, daughter of Paula the artist, daughter of Carmel the archaeologist, daughter of Nelly, who witnessed the founding of a nation.

Praise for Girls Who Slay Monsters

'A richly-illustrated book detailing the daring tales of Ireland’s forgotten goddesses - sumptuously produced, with bold, super-clear design. The author manages to make divine female characters from Ireland’s past relevant to young women today.’

- Manchán Magan

'Beautifully written but highly accessible and relatable. A classic in the making.’

- Sarah Webb, Irish Independent

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Date Published: 29 September 2022

Hardback, 224 pages

ISBN: 9780008538972

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