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Myths and Legends #9
Wizards: From Merlin to Faust
From the wise and mysterious soothsayer with his long grey beard to the deathless necromancer practicing his dark magics in a forgotten dungeon, wizards have captured our imaginations since the earliest days of human storytelling, presenting us with some of our greatest heroes and villains. This book collects the tales of the most interesting, popular, and important spell-casters from history, including such legendary figures as Merlin, Simon Magus, Hermes Trismegistus, Koschei the Deathless, Nicholas Flamel, Dr John Dee, and Johann Georg Faust. Written to appeal to the modern reader, each tale captures the drama, the tragedy, and the wonderment that has ensured that these stories have survived the passing centuries. Each story is also examined in its historical, mythological, and thaumaturgical contexts.
80 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
2 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
About the author
David A. McIntee
77 books30 followersDavid A. McIntee was a British author who specialised in writing spin-offs and nonfiction commentaries for Doctor Who and other British and American science-fiction franchises.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
October 13, 2015
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
"From the wise and mysterious soothsayer with his long grey beard to the deathless necromancer practicing his dark magics in a forgotten dungeon, wizards have captured our imaginations since the earliest days of human storytelling, presenting us with some of our greatest heroes and villains. This book collects the tales of the most interesting, popular, and important spell-casters from history, including such legendary figures as Merlin, Simon Magus, Hermes Trismegistus, Koschei the Deathless, Nicholas Flamel, Dr John Dee, and Johann Georg Faust. Written to appeal to the modern reader, each tale captures the drama, the tragedy, and the wonderment that has ensured that these stories have survived the passing centuries. Each story is also examined in its historical, mythological, and thaumaturgical contexts."
Okay this is a very short book and obviously it's not exactly fiction so I don't need to rattle on about character development and plot, and this is going to make it a pretty short review.
Overall, this book was purely mediocre. The stories about the magicians were interesting, and I really enjoyed the inclusion of the historical real-life people these stories are based on, and how these people came to be known as wizards etc. So that format was really good.
The only issue I had with it was that there was barely any detail at all in the stories. Some of them barely even explained the dates they were practising in etc. This is a shame because I found the content incredibly interesting and would have liked to have learned a lot more about the people and the legends. Nevertheless, it was well written and passed by quickly.
So overall, the format was great and it was well written, I'd have just liked a lot more detail throughout the various stories. So 3/5 stars for me.
"From the wise and mysterious soothsayer with his long grey beard to the deathless necromancer practicing his dark magics in a forgotten dungeon, wizards have captured our imaginations since the earliest days of human storytelling, presenting us with some of our greatest heroes and villains. This book collects the tales of the most interesting, popular, and important spell-casters from history, including such legendary figures as Merlin, Simon Magus, Hermes Trismegistus, Koschei the Deathless, Nicholas Flamel, Dr John Dee, and Johann Georg Faust. Written to appeal to the modern reader, each tale captures the drama, the tragedy, and the wonderment that has ensured that these stories have survived the passing centuries. Each story is also examined in its historical, mythological, and thaumaturgical contexts."
Okay this is a very short book and obviously it's not exactly fiction so I don't need to rattle on about character development and plot, and this is going to make it a pretty short review.
Overall, this book was purely mediocre. The stories about the magicians were interesting, and I really enjoyed the inclusion of the historical real-life people these stories are based on, and how these people came to be known as wizards etc. So that format was really good.
The only issue I had with it was that there was barely any detail at all in the stories. Some of them barely even explained the dates they were practising in etc. This is a shame because I found the content incredibly interesting and would have liked to have learned a lot more about the people and the legends. Nevertheless, it was well written and passed by quickly.
So overall, the format was great and it was well written, I'd have just liked a lot more detail throughout the various stories. So 3/5 stars for me.
April 29, 2014
Pros: covers several wizards, lots of good information
Cons: too short!
Like the other books in Osprey’s Myths and Legends series, Wizards is a great jumping off point for further research on the topic. The book covers a variety of wizards throughout history, first through an engaging story and then explaining what we know about the historical person or people that gave rise to the myths. Some of the wizards you’ll encounter in this collection are Hermes, Virgil, Zhang Guo Lao, Nicholas Flamel and Dr. John Dee. There’s a great mix of well known and not so well known figures and while most of the wizards mentioned are Western, there are a few famous Eastern wizards as well. There are some great images, both historic and new ones commissioned for this volume.
As with the other books, it is simply a beginners guide, and as such is definitely too short. But it’s a great volume and if you’re interested in wizards, alchemy, the occult or fantasy, you’ll find this an interesting read.
Cons: too short!
Like the other books in Osprey’s Myths and Legends series, Wizards is a great jumping off point for further research on the topic. The book covers a variety of wizards throughout history, first through an engaging story and then explaining what we know about the historical person or people that gave rise to the myths. Some of the wizards you’ll encounter in this collection are Hermes, Virgil, Zhang Guo Lao, Nicholas Flamel and Dr. John Dee. There’s a great mix of well known and not so well known figures and while most of the wizards mentioned are Western, there are a few famous Eastern wizards as well. There are some great images, both historic and new ones commissioned for this volume.
As with the other books, it is simply a beginners guide, and as such is definitely too short. But it’s a great volume and if you’re interested in wizards, alchemy, the occult or fantasy, you’ll find this an interesting read.
January 10, 2015
Some nice stories I hadn't read before, and a bibliography I hope to look into more closely.
March 6, 2019
Part of Osprey's Myths & Legends series, this books provides an overview of the background of Wizards in history, and in literature. Dealing with Wizards from the West, East and Middle-East this book looks at the stories of, and the history behind, 13 Wizards.
A fun overview of the Wizards mentioned, with Merlin taking a whole chapter to himself... but the others receive sufficient space for readers to investigate further if they wish.
Probably needs a companion book on Witches, but fun none-the-less
A fun overview of the Wizards mentioned, with Merlin taking a whole chapter to himself... but the others receive sufficient space for readers to investigate further if they wish.
Probably needs a companion book on Witches, but fun none-the-less
January 11, 2019
I love this book, there is so much I've learned about wizards even though this is a small book. There are some fiction stories in there but many are based on supposed historical facts too, it's great!
December 26, 2017
Covers the legends and possible sources of the legends of various wizards over the course of history.
February 22, 2018
Not bad. A good overview of wizards and alchemy through the ages.
February 2, 2015
Wizards From Merlin to Faust is a Magical Adventure Through History and Mythology
by Cape Rust · May 16, 2014
Wizards From Merlin to Faust: Myths and Legends 9 by David McIntee
Genere(s): History, Myth, Fiction, Legends
Publisher: Osprey Publishing
Description: From the wise and mysterious soothsayer with his long grey beard to the deathless necromancer practicing his dark magics in a forgotten dungeon, wizards have captured our imaginations since the earliest days of human storytelling, presenting us with some of our greatest heroes and villains. This book collects the tales of the most interesting, popular, and important spell-casters from history, including such legendary figures as Merlin, Simon Magus, Hermes Trismegistus, Koschei the Deathless, Nicholas Flamel, Dr John Dee, and Johann Georg Faust. Written to appeal to the modern reader, each tale captures the drama, the tragedy, and the wonderment that has ensured that these stories have survived the passing centuries. Each story is also examined in its historical, mythological, and thaumaturgical contexts.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this book; however, no one cast a spell on me or put any hexes on me to write a positive review, at least none that I know of…
Wizards has invigorated my love for Osprey’s Myths and Legends series. Please notice that I didn’t say re-invigorated, because my love and admiration for what this series is doing has never waned. Wizards tackles a subject that most historians would ignore and dismiss as fancy. Many of the wizards mentioned in this book are historical figures, and their stories have helped the non-magical societies that we live in today.
I won’t use this review to debate the existence of Magic, but by whatever means they used the men mentioned in this book were rightfully the wizards of their time. In typical Osprey fashion, this book approaches these wizards with a serious and genuine academic eye. The cover art by Mark Stacey is magical. He really captures the spirit of the wizard, and Osprey was smart to choose his work. The layout of this book follows what is a now-established pattern for the Myths and Legends series. I do wish that they could keep the photo captions with the pictures they reference, but there is only so much space per page. As far as the historical art included in this book, it was so-so for me. It was all historically accurate, but seemed drab; I would have loved to have seen some more artwork by Stacey rather than the real stuff. This book does have academic value, but Stacey’s work was just so wonderful.
I am a big fan of the fact that Osprey told the stories that made many of these wizards famous rather than just referencing them or mentioning them. I felt like I was sitting around some fire in a land of long ago, listening to a bard telling the daring tales of these wielders of magic. Osprey wasn’t judgmental; they just presented retellings of the stories. The stories were followed with actual historical information about the wizards in question, and the time periods that they may or may not have lived in.
I love that Osprey packs so much useful and interesting information into an 81 page package. As a publisher they seem to have found passionate authors who know how to research information about the things that they love. McIntee is very good about covering different wizarding traditions and even delves into the entomology of words like abracadabra. Wizards From Merlin to Faust is a well written, well presented book that will cast a spell on anyone who is interested in learning more about wizards.
Note this review was first published at www.popcults.com
by Cape Rust · May 16, 2014
Wizards From Merlin to Faust: Myths and Legends 9 by David McIntee
Genere(s): History, Myth, Fiction, Legends
Publisher: Osprey Publishing
Description: From the wise and mysterious soothsayer with his long grey beard to the deathless necromancer practicing his dark magics in a forgotten dungeon, wizards have captured our imaginations since the earliest days of human storytelling, presenting us with some of our greatest heroes and villains. This book collects the tales of the most interesting, popular, and important spell-casters from history, including such legendary figures as Merlin, Simon Magus, Hermes Trismegistus, Koschei the Deathless, Nicholas Flamel, Dr John Dee, and Johann Georg Faust. Written to appeal to the modern reader, each tale captures the drama, the tragedy, and the wonderment that has ensured that these stories have survived the passing centuries. Each story is also examined in its historical, mythological, and thaumaturgical contexts.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this book; however, no one cast a spell on me or put any hexes on me to write a positive review, at least none that I know of…
Wizards has invigorated my love for Osprey’s Myths and Legends series. Please notice that I didn’t say re-invigorated, because my love and admiration for what this series is doing has never waned. Wizards tackles a subject that most historians would ignore and dismiss as fancy. Many of the wizards mentioned in this book are historical figures, and their stories have helped the non-magical societies that we live in today.
I won’t use this review to debate the existence of Magic, but by whatever means they used the men mentioned in this book were rightfully the wizards of their time. In typical Osprey fashion, this book approaches these wizards with a serious and genuine academic eye. The cover art by Mark Stacey is magical. He really captures the spirit of the wizard, and Osprey was smart to choose his work. The layout of this book follows what is a now-established pattern for the Myths and Legends series. I do wish that they could keep the photo captions with the pictures they reference, but there is only so much space per page. As far as the historical art included in this book, it was so-so for me. It was all historically accurate, but seemed drab; I would have loved to have seen some more artwork by Stacey rather than the real stuff. This book does have academic value, but Stacey’s work was just so wonderful.
I am a big fan of the fact that Osprey told the stories that made many of these wizards famous rather than just referencing them or mentioning them. I felt like I was sitting around some fire in a land of long ago, listening to a bard telling the daring tales of these wielders of magic. Osprey wasn’t judgmental; they just presented retellings of the stories. The stories were followed with actual historical information about the wizards in question, and the time periods that they may or may not have lived in.
I love that Osprey packs so much useful and interesting information into an 81 page package. As a publisher they seem to have found passionate authors who know how to research information about the things that they love. McIntee is very good about covering different wizarding traditions and even delves into the entomology of words like abracadabra. Wizards From Merlin to Faust is a well written, well presented book that will cast a spell on anyone who is interested in learning more about wizards.
Note this review was first published at www.popcults.com
July 23, 2016
Abra-ca-dabra, (Aramaic: "I create - what - I speak")
Osprey Publishing has an interesting series, almost a mini-imprint, titled "Myths and Legends". (Osprey is a military history publisher based in Oxford, but it is apparently branching out beyond its histories of specific army and military units.) A while ago I read their "Robin Hood", written by Neil Smith, and very much enjoyed his handling of Robin Hood as a figure of legend, literature and history. I gather there are many other books in the Myths and Legends series, addressing Troy, Hercules, Thor, Sinbad, Charlemagne, King Arthur, Jason and the Argonauts, and so on. In addition to books devoted to single subjects there are books that serve as compendia on particular themes, like "Dragonslayers" and this particularly rewarding collection, "Wizards".
Whether you read middle grade fiction, YA action/adventure, or adult high fantasy you have undoubtedly come across many of these wizards, or at least their names. Especially common are references to Dr. John Dee, Nicholas Flamel, and Hermes Trismegistus. And of course, Merlin, who must hold the record for literary appearances. While you probably recognize many of the names, the matter of who these men actually were, and how they came to be seen as wizards, may not be so well known. That's where "Wizards" steps in admirably.
The book is well organized. We start with an overview of a time period. Then we identify the wizards from that period. Each wizard is then introduced through a story or two, (or more), that displays the wizard's cunning, learning and prowess. This is followed by a treatment of the historical figure upon whom the wizard is modeled, and then consideration of that wizard's importance in literary terms. As a bonus there are numerous sidebars that address issues that are common to many wizards. So, you get mini essays about alchemy, or magical tomes, or words of magic. Additionally, the book is heavily illustrated, primarily with images of the wizards drawn from books but also of events and places important to that wizard's history or portraying that wizard through the lens of popular culture.
From the point of view of the reading experience, attitude and tone are important. This is not a Wiccan primer or a "Chariot of the Gods" kind of book. It is a good humored, thorough, personable treatment that is meant mainly to inform and entertain. This is not a serious academic study, (although it is not flippant or careless), and I wouldn't suggest quoting it in your doctoral dissertation on folklore. It is a popular treatment whose virtue is a light but informative touch, sufficient depth for the casual reader, a fast pace and appeal to a variety of interests. I learned about some characters who were new to me, picked up some new insights regarding wizards with whom I was familiar, and absorbed a little more historical and literary context. To me, that made this a good and rewarding read.
Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book in exchange for a candid review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.
Osprey Publishing has an interesting series, almost a mini-imprint, titled "Myths and Legends". (Osprey is a military history publisher based in Oxford, but it is apparently branching out beyond its histories of specific army and military units.) A while ago I read their "Robin Hood", written by Neil Smith, and very much enjoyed his handling of Robin Hood as a figure of legend, literature and history. I gather there are many other books in the Myths and Legends series, addressing Troy, Hercules, Thor, Sinbad, Charlemagne, King Arthur, Jason and the Argonauts, and so on. In addition to books devoted to single subjects there are books that serve as compendia on particular themes, like "Dragonslayers" and this particularly rewarding collection, "Wizards".
Whether you read middle grade fiction, YA action/adventure, or adult high fantasy you have undoubtedly come across many of these wizards, or at least their names. Especially common are references to Dr. John Dee, Nicholas Flamel, and Hermes Trismegistus. And of course, Merlin, who must hold the record for literary appearances. While you probably recognize many of the names, the matter of who these men actually were, and how they came to be seen as wizards, may not be so well known. That's where "Wizards" steps in admirably.
The book is well organized. We start with an overview of a time period. Then we identify the wizards from that period. Each wizard is then introduced through a story or two, (or more), that displays the wizard's cunning, learning and prowess. This is followed by a treatment of the historical figure upon whom the wizard is modeled, and then consideration of that wizard's importance in literary terms. As a bonus there are numerous sidebars that address issues that are common to many wizards. So, you get mini essays about alchemy, or magical tomes, or words of magic. Additionally, the book is heavily illustrated, primarily with images of the wizards drawn from books but also of events and places important to that wizard's history or portraying that wizard through the lens of popular culture.
From the point of view of the reading experience, attitude and tone are important. This is not a Wiccan primer or a "Chariot of the Gods" kind of book. It is a good humored, thorough, personable treatment that is meant mainly to inform and entertain. This is not a serious academic study, (although it is not flippant or careless), and I wouldn't suggest quoting it in your doctoral dissertation on folklore. It is a popular treatment whose virtue is a light but informative touch, sufficient depth for the casual reader, a fast pace and appeal to a variety of interests. I learned about some characters who were new to me, picked up some new insights regarding wizards with whom I was familiar, and absorbed a little more historical and literary context. To me, that made this a good and rewarding read.
Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book in exchange for a candid review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.
April 6, 2014
Disclaimer: ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for a review. Additionally, not all pictures were included in the ARC. Those included were nicely chosen, but other than that I can’t say much about the illustrations.
Long before Harry Potter ever set in Hogwarts, wizards had entrenched themselves in the imagination. Ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome all had their wizards, whether it be the son of a pharaoh or the writer accused of inscrolling his wife.
This book takes a look at the wizards of history. Starting in Ancient Egypt, Mcintee discusses not only the legends that surround the famous wizard but who they actually were (or might have been).
While the choice of subject matter is no doubt inspired, in part, by the popularity of Harry Potter, the book focuses more on the history and the legends. Merlin is here as is Virgil, Dee, Flamel and Faust. But it isn’t all just Western wizards. Eastern wizards from the Middle East and China are also detailed and get equal page space. This was nice considering how Western the Harry Potters are. I hadn’t even heard of the Chinese wizards that were mentioned.
Stories about the wizards are presented first, usually with a theme, and what then follows is a profile of the real historical personage. Connections are made not only to figures such as Merlin, but to Medieval Legends surrounding Saint Peter. This gives a more comprehensive overview of the figure in legend. The book begins and ends with connections not only to Potter and Lord of the Rings, but to Star Wars. It nicely transitions to the legends of the past to the legends of today.
The only negative is the focus on men – but this criticism is slightly unfair, for the term wizard is only used for men. This is slightly tempered by the appearance of women in some of the legends.
While designed for children –it would make a nice gift for a Harry Potter or Flamel obsessed child – the book can easily be read by adults. It is education without being a lecture and includes a reading list.
Crossposted on Booklikes.
Long before Harry Potter ever set in Hogwarts, wizards had entrenched themselves in the imagination. Ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome all had their wizards, whether it be the son of a pharaoh or the writer accused of inscrolling his wife.
This book takes a look at the wizards of history. Starting in Ancient Egypt, Mcintee discusses not only the legends that surround the famous wizard but who they actually were (or might have been).
While the choice of subject matter is no doubt inspired, in part, by the popularity of Harry Potter, the book focuses more on the history and the legends. Merlin is here as is Virgil, Dee, Flamel and Faust. But it isn’t all just Western wizards. Eastern wizards from the Middle East and China are also detailed and get equal page space. This was nice considering how Western the Harry Potters are. I hadn’t even heard of the Chinese wizards that were mentioned.
Stories about the wizards are presented first, usually with a theme, and what then follows is a profile of the real historical personage. Connections are made not only to figures such as Merlin, but to Medieval Legends surrounding Saint Peter. This gives a more comprehensive overview of the figure in legend. The book begins and ends with connections not only to Potter and Lord of the Rings, but to Star Wars. It nicely transitions to the legends of the past to the legends of today.
The only negative is the focus on men – but this criticism is slightly unfair, for the term wizard is only used for men. This is slightly tempered by the appearance of women in some of the legends.
While designed for children –it would make a nice gift for a Harry Potter or Flamel obsessed child – the book can easily be read by adults. It is education without being a lecture and includes a reading list.
Crossposted on Booklikes.
October 3, 2014
Disclaimer: Received from Netgalley in exchange for a review.
Wizards: From Merlin to Faust is a book that acts as a sort of short history book for mythical and legendary wizards. It explains in detail some of the wizards that are known throughout the world, starting with early wizards such as Dedi, and ends with later wizards such as Johann Georg Faust.
The author divided the book into different sections that represent wizards from different time periods. He told us of the Original Wizards, the Wizards of the First Millennium, the Wizard of Camelot, the Wizards of the East, the Wizards of the Renaissance, the Golden Age Wizards, and a short write up on Wizards Today. Each of these sections are then divided into chapters that focus on individual wizards, including Virgil, Nicholas Flamel, and Merlin. David McIntee begins each chapter by telling a story of one of these wizards, usually a tale that demonstrates the kind of power that the wizard possesses. He ends the chapter with a historical account of the person, explaining what we know about them in a historical sense. Often throughout the chapters, there are pictures of the wizards that help us get a visual sense of what they looked like or what they were doing in the stories that the author was telling us.
I have given this book a 4 out of 5 stars. It is written very well, giving us both a story of what the wizards have done in their life and also giving us the historical perspective of that person. This book could mainly be used as an introduction to wizards throughout history, giving a brief description of who they are and what they did. It is a great book to go to if you are interested in wizards and want to find out which one to do further research on. It is a very short and interesting read that I have enjoyed.
Don't forget to visit my blog at: http://authentichobbitreviews.weebly....
:) Thanks!
- Authentic Hobbit
Wizards: From Merlin to Faust is a book that acts as a sort of short history book for mythical and legendary wizards. It explains in detail some of the wizards that are known throughout the world, starting with early wizards such as Dedi, and ends with later wizards such as Johann Georg Faust.
The author divided the book into different sections that represent wizards from different time periods. He told us of the Original Wizards, the Wizards of the First Millennium, the Wizard of Camelot, the Wizards of the East, the Wizards of the Renaissance, the Golden Age Wizards, and a short write up on Wizards Today. Each of these sections are then divided into chapters that focus on individual wizards, including Virgil, Nicholas Flamel, and Merlin. David McIntee begins each chapter by telling a story of one of these wizards, usually a tale that demonstrates the kind of power that the wizard possesses. He ends the chapter with a historical account of the person, explaining what we know about them in a historical sense. Often throughout the chapters, there are pictures of the wizards that help us get a visual sense of what they looked like or what they were doing in the stories that the author was telling us.
I have given this book a 4 out of 5 stars. It is written very well, giving us both a story of what the wizards have done in their life and also giving us the historical perspective of that person. This book could mainly be used as an introduction to wizards throughout history, giving a brief description of who they are and what they did. It is a great book to go to if you are interested in wizards and want to find out which one to do further research on. It is a very short and interesting read that I have enjoyed.
Don't forget to visit my blog at: http://authentichobbitreviews.weebly....
:) Thanks!
- Authentic Hobbit
August 12, 2015
Disclaimer: ARC copy from Netgalley.
Wizards: From Merlin to Faust, by David McIntee, is an interesting introduction book regarding the history of wizards in society. From the description: "From the wise and mysterious soothsayer with his long grey beard to the deathless necromancer practicing his dark magics in a forgotten dungeon, wizards have captured our imaginations since the earliest days of human storytelling, presenting us with some of our greatest heroes and villains. This book collects the tales of the most interesting, popular, and important spell-casters from history, including such legendary figures as Merlin, Simon Magus, Hermes Trismegistus, Koschei the Deathless, Nicholas Flamel, Dr John Dee, and Johann Georg Faust. Written to appeal to the modern reader, each tale captures the drama, the tragedy, and the wonderment that has ensured that these stories have survived the passing centuries. Each story is also examined in its historical, mythological, and thaumaturgical contexts."
The description is highly accurate. I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of Merlin and the use of magic in history. One of the things I found interesting is that it includes wizards from Eastern societies, such as China and the Middle East. However, this book is clearly designed for children who like Harry Potter. It even includes connections to Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and even Star Wars. Another thing I liked about this book is that they link the myth to the actual historical connection for the wizards. They even include a reading list, if you want to learn more about these wizards.
I recommend this book if you enjoy reading additional references about wizards, magic, or fantasy.
Wizards: From Merlin to Faust, by David McIntee, is an interesting introduction book regarding the history of wizards in society. From the description: "From the wise and mysterious soothsayer with his long grey beard to the deathless necromancer practicing his dark magics in a forgotten dungeon, wizards have captured our imaginations since the earliest days of human storytelling, presenting us with some of our greatest heroes and villains. This book collects the tales of the most interesting, popular, and important spell-casters from history, including such legendary figures as Merlin, Simon Magus, Hermes Trismegistus, Koschei the Deathless, Nicholas Flamel, Dr John Dee, and Johann Georg Faust. Written to appeal to the modern reader, each tale captures the drama, the tragedy, and the wonderment that has ensured that these stories have survived the passing centuries. Each story is also examined in its historical, mythological, and thaumaturgical contexts."
The description is highly accurate. I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of Merlin and the use of magic in history. One of the things I found interesting is that it includes wizards from Eastern societies, such as China and the Middle East. However, this book is clearly designed for children who like Harry Potter. It even includes connections to Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and even Star Wars. Another thing I liked about this book is that they link the myth to the actual historical connection for the wizards. They even include a reading list, if you want to learn more about these wizards.
I recommend this book if you enjoy reading additional references about wizards, magic, or fantasy.
June 17, 2014
Title: Wizards From Merlin To Faust - Myths and Legends
Author: David McIntee
Illustrator: Mark Stacey
Publisher: Osprey Publishing
Published: 5-20-2014
ISBN: 9781472803399
E-Book: B00IQQUVZ4
Pages: 83
Genre: Myths & Legends
Tags: Magic
Overall Rating: Very Good
Reviewed For: NetGalley
Reviewer: DelAnne
Wizards is a book that tells a brief story about different Wizards through the ages. From Dedi of the time of the Egyptian Pharaohs to 1400's Faust of Europe. The contemporary wizards today are more of the theater variety such as Harry Potter, Dumbledore or even Obi Wan of Star Wars fame, because we no longer believe them to be true. Instead we call ancient wizards myths and modern ones entertainment. Wizards From Merlin To Faust - Myths and Legends is a great a source of information on some of the more known wizards through the ages.
Written for ages around 10 and up, Wizards From Merlin To Faust - Myths and Legends is a book to be enjoyed by young and old alike. There are some very well done illustrations to be found depicting some of the great wizards and the times they lived in. These are beautifully done and reflect each excerpt of the lives as told by David A McIntee. Informative and of interest to all. Pick up a copy of Wizards From Merlin To Faust - Myths and Legends to share with your family
Author: David McIntee
Illustrator: Mark Stacey
Publisher: Osprey Publishing
Published: 5-20-2014
ISBN: 9781472803399
E-Book: B00IQQUVZ4
Pages: 83
Genre: Myths & Legends
Tags: Magic
Overall Rating: Very Good
Reviewed For: NetGalley
Reviewer: DelAnne
Wizards is a book that tells a brief story about different Wizards through the ages. From Dedi of the time of the Egyptian Pharaohs to 1400's Faust of Europe. The contemporary wizards today are more of the theater variety such as Harry Potter, Dumbledore or even Obi Wan of Star Wars fame, because we no longer believe them to be true. Instead we call ancient wizards myths and modern ones entertainment. Wizards From Merlin To Faust - Myths and Legends is a great a source of information on some of the more known wizards through the ages.
Written for ages around 10 and up, Wizards From Merlin To Faust - Myths and Legends is a book to be enjoyed by young and old alike. There are some very well done illustrations to be found depicting some of the great wizards and the times they lived in. These are beautifully done and reflect each excerpt of the lives as told by David A McIntee. Informative and of interest to all. Pick up a copy of Wizards From Merlin To Faust - Myths and Legends to share with your family
April 11, 2014
Disclaimer: Received from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review.
Name a famous wizard, go on, any famous wizard. If you're a teenager, it was likely any of the characters from Harry Potter. For those of us a bit older, it could have been Rupert Giles or Ethan Rayne from the Buffyverse. Unless, of course, you cut your teeth on the classics of fantasy, then you named the most famous wizard of all... Merlin. Yet, those are all legends - modern or ancient - and not real men at all.
This book endeavors to pull the real history from the myth without overwhelming the reader with lectures on ancient history. First, the legend is given, simplified for a modern young adult audience, then the history behind that legend is told in as much as we know the facts behind the story. Included are both Western and Eastern Wizards which helps to balance the traditionally Western focus of most books on the history of wizards. The research is well done and translated well without being overwhelming in minor details. The accompanying illustrations do well to illuminate the text.
The principal drawback of the text is the lack of women. Women are mentioned in the stories given in the text, there are no stories with women as primary characters. I can only hope that the publisher eventually decides to put out a book in this series featuring Sorceress or Witches in order to provide a balanced overview of the topic.
Name a famous wizard, go on, any famous wizard. If you're a teenager, it was likely any of the characters from Harry Potter. For those of us a bit older, it could have been Rupert Giles or Ethan Rayne from the Buffyverse. Unless, of course, you cut your teeth on the classics of fantasy, then you named the most famous wizard of all... Merlin. Yet, those are all legends - modern or ancient - and not real men at all.
This book endeavors to pull the real history from the myth without overwhelming the reader with lectures on ancient history. First, the legend is given, simplified for a modern young adult audience, then the history behind that legend is told in as much as we know the facts behind the story. Included are both Western and Eastern Wizards which helps to balance the traditionally Western focus of most books on the history of wizards. The research is well done and translated well without being overwhelming in minor details. The accompanying illustrations do well to illuminate the text.
The principal drawback of the text is the lack of women. Women are mentioned in the stories given in the text, there are no stories with women as primary characters. I can only hope that the publisher eventually decides to put out a book in this series featuring Sorceress or Witches in order to provide a balanced overview of the topic.
July 22, 2014
'Wizards: From Merlin to Faust' is another fun entry in the Myths and Legends series. These short volumes pack a lot of information into a scant 80 pages including some great illustrations.
This volume focuses on literary wizards from history. While the focus is mostly on Western civilization wizards, I enjoyed learning about Zhang Guo Lao as well as his familiar likeness in Asian art. Others in the volume include Virgil, Nicholas Flamel and Hermes. There are references to more modern wizards like Harry Potter and Gandalf, but nearly no time is devoted to them, and that's how it should be. Alchemy is discussed as well as forbidden books and the kinds of revenge that wizards will take on you if you cross them.
I've enjoyed most in the series, but this is the only one that felt like it could have been longer. That's probably in line with my preferences and it fits the page count of the rest of the series. It's a light reference series that has some great information packed in it's pages.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Osprey Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
This volume focuses on literary wizards from history. While the focus is mostly on Western civilization wizards, I enjoyed learning about Zhang Guo Lao as well as his familiar likeness in Asian art. Others in the volume include Virgil, Nicholas Flamel and Hermes. There are references to more modern wizards like Harry Potter and Gandalf, but nearly no time is devoted to them, and that's how it should be. Alchemy is discussed as well as forbidden books and the kinds of revenge that wizards will take on you if you cross them.
I've enjoyed most in the series, but this is the only one that felt like it could have been longer. That's probably in line with my preferences and it fits the page count of the rest of the series. It's a light reference series that has some great information packed in it's pages.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Osprey Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
December 21, 2014
Wizards: From Merlin to Faust (Myths and Legends #9)
by David McIntee
Wizards are an interesting topic in our day and age. With popular movies like the Lord of the Rings, and Harry Potter bringing Wizards into the main stream wizards are getting popular. This book looks at the history, the legends and the truth behind the most hidden of professions. The book looks at the stories of Merlin, Faust, and other historical figures who are known to be wizards. First presenting the legend, the lyrical poetry of the history of these men, then piecing together the truth and facts, explaining all of their lives and why they may have been exposed as wizards. The best line is the end when he refers to the literature and the popularity of modern wizards, and their sage advice to the youth of the world. The art alone would make this book a collector’s item.
by David McIntee
Wizards are an interesting topic in our day and age. With popular movies like the Lord of the Rings, and Harry Potter bringing Wizards into the main stream wizards are getting popular. This book looks at the history, the legends and the truth behind the most hidden of professions. The book looks at the stories of Merlin, Faust, and other historical figures who are known to be wizards. First presenting the legend, the lyrical poetry of the history of these men, then piecing together the truth and facts, explaining all of their lives and why they may have been exposed as wizards. The best line is the end when he refers to the literature and the popularity of modern wizards, and their sage advice to the youth of the world. The art alone would make this book a collector’s item.
September 20, 2014
Since I love all things mythical and magical, I found this book interesting, informative even, and quite fun. The writing is clear and there is a good mix of subjects. I especially enjoyed learning about the wizards I had no previous knowledge of. I read this on kindle and therefore could not fully appreciate the artwork, but I imagine that a paper copy of the book would reveal some amazing pictures.
I enjoyed reading this book, and it was easy to pick up and put down as the mood took me, and I will probably go back to it over and over!
I enjoyed reading this book, and it was easy to pick up and put down as the mood took me, and I will probably go back to it over and over!
November 3, 2016
Wizards: From Merlin to Faust (Myths and Legends) was a light, fun read that found the sweet spot between entertainment and research. The overall book was written in an easy style and I enjoyed the juxtaposition between the myth of the wizard and the actual historical individual. The artwork was excellent and I enjoyed not only the illustrations of Mark Stacey but also the old 18th and 19th century illustrations as well. This book is a must read if you have interest in the occult or the supernatural.
May 27, 2014
I’ve been a huge fan of just about all the MYTHS AND LEGENDS series from Osprey Publishing, having given four stars to Troy, Robin Hood, and Thor; and 4.5 to King Arthur, with only Jason and the Argonauts standing out as a weak entry in the roll. Until now. The most recent text in the series (for me at least) is called Wizards: From Merlin to Faust, an... Read More: http://www.fantasyliterature.com/revi...
April 12, 2014
A small collection of men, historically and mythologically, considered wizards. The illustrations and pictures are great, but get the epub version so you can see them all. Wizards from different time periods and from all over the world are included. This work is introductory.
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April 24, 2014
Very intriguing. I thought this was just going to be another basic books on wizards approiate for the kids or teen collection, but I was greatly suprised at the depth of the stories. This title mixes this depth with great illustrations.
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