Featured on The Book Show on Sky Arts at the Hay Festival on 28 May 2011.

Two Welsh legends are brought to life for a new audience in this debut publication from singer Cerys Matthews.

Synopsis

In this debut children’s book from singer/songwriter and DJ Cerys Matthews, two ancient Welsh legends are reinterpreted and brought to life for a new generation. In Tales from the Deep, the legends of Cantre’r Gwaelod and The Maid of Llyn y Fan are lyrically retold by Matthews and accompanied by stunning images from illustrator Fran Evans.

The first story, The Ghost Bells of the Lowlands, adapted from the legend of Cantre’r Gwaelod, tells the story of a village gatekeeper who fails to carry out his protective duties one evening, placing the villagers at the mercy of the sea. In the second tale, Myddfai Magic, adapted from The Maid of Lyn y Fan, narrates the story of Gwyn, a farmer, who sees a beautiful girl emerge from the lake as he tends to his animals one day. The third time that he sees her, he asks her to marry him, but little does he know that this will change his life forever.

Cerys Matthews is well known for her talent with words and, as a mother of three, is well placed to rework these Welsh legends for an audience of contemporary children. With a different beautiful design on both the front and back cover, Tales from the Deep is exceptionally attractive, both inside and out, capturing these enchanting Welsh legends for a new generation of readers.

About the Author

Cerys Matthews is well known worldwide as a successful singer / songwriter. Formerly the front woman of cult band Catatonia, she was a rock icon in the 1990's. In recent years she has returned to her folk roots and since released five successful solo albums. She currently presents a Sunday show for BBC 6 Music, and will be touring to promote her new album in May 2011. She is well known for her talent with words, and as a mother of three, ideally placed to rework these Welsh legends for a young, contemporary audience.   Fran Evans lives in Pembrokeshire, and is a successful, highly popular illustrator and author. She draws inspiration from nature and the world around her. She is known for her soft, subtle and often amusing watercolours, that are alive with detail and explore the magic of the natural world. More books by this author Author 'Like for Like' recommendation