Illustrated by Steve McCarthy
5 stars
The sweetest book about banshees that I have ever read.
Bansheenies (baby banshees) typically bond with the first person they see, allowing them to learn when that person will die. Through happenstance, Beanie’s story is not quite so straightforward. Instead of simply telling her human, Rose, when her death is coming, she vows to really learn who Rose is and protect her and her family.
A wonderful story of friendship, love, and kindness. I wasn’t so sure about reading about a “good” banshee, but Colfer does it all just right. A playful approach to Irish folklore that perfectly captures the way kindness and love spreads from one creature to the next.
Gorgeous illustrations. I really can’t put into words how fantastical and lovely they are. If nothing else, the book is worth flipping through just to look at the wonderful artwork, let alone the magical story.
A wonderful modern fairy tale that perfectly captures the darkness and whimsy of the classics with its own heartwarming messages about the power of friendship, choosing kindness, and the positive ripple effects of love.