Partitioning Ireland was an experiment that has lasted a century. Now it is time for it to come to an end.

In the four provinces of Ireland there are thirty-two counties. Each county and its people have their own traditions, beliefs and folklore – and each one is also inhabited by the Sidhe: an ancient and magical race. Some believe they are descended from fallen angels, whilst others say they are the progeny of Celtic deities. They go by many names: the good folk, the wee folk, the gentle people and the fey, but are most commonly known as ‘the fairies’. These are not the whimsical fairies of Victorian and Edwardian picture books. They are feared and revered in equal measure, and even in the twenty-first century are spoken of in hushed tones. The fairies are always listening. Storyteller Steve Lally and his wife singer-songwriter Paula Flynn Lally have compiled this magnificent collection of magical fairy stories from every county in Ireland. Filled with unique illustrations that bring these tales to life, Irish Gothic Fairy Stories will both enthral and terrify readers for generations to come.

Whether a leisurely rambler or a serious hill walker, there's a good chance you've visited or plan to visit at least one of Ireland's County High Points. While this special set of Irish hills and mountains continues to attract more visitors each year, they've never had a walking guidebook exclusively devoted to them. Ireland's County High Points – A Walking Guide explains everything you need to know as a walker before setting out on your County High Point quests. Each county-focused chapter contains a brief county profile and detailed walking route descriptions accompanied by easy-to-read maps. Also featured are various challenge options based on County High Points. This definitive guide is based on detailed desk-study investigation combined with on-site research, and dispels any commonly believed myths that may have previously lingered over certain County Top and County Peak locations. • Detailed route instructions and maps in practical format • Other Walking Guides also available: Carrauntohil & MacGillycuddy's Reeks by Jim Ryan; The Burren and the Aran Islands by Tony Kirby; Northern Ireland by Helen Fairbairn. For a complete list of walking guides available from The Collins Press, see www.collinspress.ie