Description
“Breathless, tumbling fantasy. The mixture of epic poetry, heroism, and suspense should enchant 10 to 13s.” — The Guardian
“Now! Now you shall see what happens to those who would break the spell of mermaids!”
Only Arthmael can do it.
But who is Arthmael? And where is he? Can Pangur Bán find him in time?
Beautifully written, wilder and less safe than Lewis’s Narnia, this beloved allegory is newly republished. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or rediscovering that book you loved as a child, Pangur Bán delivers breathless fantasy and spiritual depth for young readers and adults.
The first in a series of Celtic fantasies for middle grade readers, this is a classic tale of good and evil by acclaimed author Fay Sampson, three–time nominee for The Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize.
Also available from these retailers:
Amazon (Kindle ebook, paperback)
Barnes & Noble (Nook ebook, paperback)
iBooks (ebook)
Kobo (ebook)
Scribd (ebook)
Smashwords (ebook)
and others
Reviewers say:
“Delightful Irish Fantasy: Mermaids, ancient Ireland, a feisty princess, a hapless young monk, and of course a mischievous cat! What is not to love!
This was a delightful book which was reminiscent of fantasy I grew up reading, such as Narnia, Lloyd Alexander’s books, and George MacDonald. So that made me super happy!
I never knew what was going to happen next and I so enjoyed the adventure! The Irish setting felt like coming home. The perilous mermaids and other creatures (eagle, dolphin, etc.) we met were intriguing. Pangur himself is such a, well, CAT, and I absolutely loved him! Princess Finglass was fierce and a good heroine. And of course Arthmael was so neat — but you’ll have to meet him yourself!
The timeless writing style was refreshing, and as a longtime fan of Celtic myth and legend, I found the essence of that Irish fairy tale feeling on Pangur Ban’s quest in particular to be marvelous.
With mishaps, adventure, a quest or two, and a touching allegory, it’s perfect for anyone who loves Irish fantasy or is looking for a slightly-wilder Narnia-esque story. Young adults and adults will find things to delight them, and children (who can handle a couple of violent/scary bits, so…caution on that) will love it.
This quick read is perfect if you need a brief adventure of mermaids and Ireland in your life! Which, of course, you absolutely do!
(Note: it’s not related to the Secret of Kells film, but since both were I think inspired by the Pangur Ban poem, there are similarities, and I think any fans of the movie would also, separately, enjoy this book.)
A timeless tale, originally published in England in the 1980s, this book is rereleasing with a new cover, and in ebook form for the first time, for a new set of readers to enjoy. Now available from Spring Song Press!”
“Lovely, lyrical, Irish-inspired tale! Moving, and a bit sad, but utterly enchanting.
Pangur Ban, the White Cat draws inspiration from the Irish monk’s poem penned in a long ago in the days of painstakingly hand copied books where precious treasures.
This tale sets the scene immediately like the brisk breeze from the sea across a sun soaked hill of Irish green… and a flare of temper, a sudden death, and banishment for the angered party fleeing righteous revenge.
And the White Cat who started the trouble happens to scurry aboard to save his own skin, and thus inadvertently shares the exile he has carelessly caused.
This is historical, fantasy mash-up of the finest water, the writing style is lavish and swashbuckling without being over done or melodramatic, the characters are instantly alive and sparklingly unique. The action follows one up on another in a cascade of realistic consequences, and the setting is poignantly drawn and beautifully lighted for an almost cinematic feel which lulls with its loveliness while providing stark contrast to the dramatic conflicts the characters find themselves in.
Although it’s presented as a children’s fantasy, this had me seriously sad! I would have serious re-thinking on letting anyone soft hearted/ sensitive read this… it’s got some heart breaking moments.”
“Whimsical and Heartfelt
Pangur Ban—the white cat—is based on an old Irish poem dating back to the 9th century. That poem is about a monk and his companion, and this story is true to that theme—but goes far beyond a quiet evening at work. Pangur Ban and the monk Niall, after causing a terrible tragedy, are sent away on a journey of recompense.
This is technically a children’s chapter book. I adored it, but it was a bit…gruesome… at times, I think, for young children. Nevertheless, it is a story I would happily share with my kids when they’re slightly older, as it is a perfectly lovely introduction to Irish folklore(and the folk story style in general, where the strange and bewildering are accepted and commonplace). It was whimsical and heartfelt, and the characters all grew a great deal by the end of the story. This is definitely one to remember and reread.”