HEATHER AND BROOM, the first collection of Scottish folk tales by Sorche Nic Leodhas—named "A Notable Book of 1960" by the American Library Association—has already won its way into the hearts of countless young readers.

Now the author has compiled a companion volume, bringing together still more of these entrancing fables: mystic legends of medieval origin; fast, rollicking seanachie stories, related by wandering storytellers; and sgeulachdan, or tales told at highland gatherings by professional entertainers who made up their plots as they went along. The last are particularly fascinating, since they were seldom written down—just passed along by word of mouth.

Through all the stories run the magic, mystery, wonderment, and gentle humor that stir the imagination of the young, Miss Nic Leodhas, who grew up listening to Scottish tales, has faithfully captured the swing and rhythm of the original Gaelic.

Illustrated with Evaline Ness’s delightful woodcuts, THISTLE AND THYME is a handsome and unusual book that young people will want to read, re-read, an cherish all their lives.

From the dust jacket