"Epitomizing the best of Irish storytelling, this blithe debut pokes fun at its own blustery genre," said PW. Ages 4-8. (Sept.)
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
From School Library Journal
Grade 2-6?A charming read-aloud, particularly for St. Patrick's Day. Patrick O'Kelley is a peddler who never tells the truth when a lie will do. When he boasts of his grand blarney-spouting abilities, the King of the Leprechauns decides to teach him a lesson. He brings Patrick to the land of the Little People and presents him with an emerald ring that forces him to speak only what is true. This causes problems not only for Patrick's gift of gab but for his customers who were used to the peddler's flattering ways and walloping yarns. Eventually he is coerced into performing in the famous Blarney Contest and, of course, he can only tell the truth?the account of how the magical Leprechaun king appeared to him in a hall of crystal and gold, arriving on four tiny ponies and gave him the enchanted ring. This outlandish though accurate story is judged the "biggest pack of blarney" ever and the sheepish man actually wins the pot of gold. He has learned his lesson, however, and he continues telling truthful tales of the days he spent with the Leprechauns. Rayyan's wispy pastel watercolor illustrations are peopled with Rackhamesque fairies and realistic characters. There is a fine blend of energy, humor, and magic in the Celtic-bordered pictures. This is a well-crafted tale told with a storyteller's touch; the language flows and the story satisfies.?Beth Tegart, Oneida City Schools, NY
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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