Tam Lin: An Old Ballad

This was my oldest daughter's favorite book, bar none, when she was four to six years old. Of course, I sought out tales with strong heroines for her and this was the best of many good picture books out there. This is the poetic tale of Jennet who rescues Tam Lin from the fairy queen. A rescue that requires great courage and endurance. In searching for this book for my younger daughter I realized that our branch of the library had lost its copy. Since it has never been replaced I suspected that it was out of print. I recommend grabbing yourself a used copy while they are available.

"Tam Lin" has been my favorite fairy tale since kindergarten, and Jane Yolen retells it beautifully. The illustrations, too, are wonderful. I especially like this story, because it is very unique. There is a heroine instead of a hero, Tam Lin and Janet are not a prince and princess, but commoners, and the fairies are evil. This book is not only for children; teens and adults who are fans of Scottish folklore will adore it, too. A tear always comes to my eye every time I read "Tam Lin". It will be enjoyed by many generations to come.

This is one of several versions of the Tam Lin legend I've read, and by far the best--even though the other books were highly acclaimed novels. Jane Yolen's version is short but sweet--not to mention haunting, eerie, and beautiful. It's certainly not just a children's book; the spare, elegant writing and magical illustrations should charm readers of all ages who enjoy folk tales of dark magic, forbidden romance, danger and redemption. The heroine is spunky and courageous, the hero enigmatic and seemingly doomed. This is a classic.