Jonathan Ceredig Davies was a man on a mission in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He walked the lanes of West and Mid-Wales, knocking on farmhouse doors and listening. His book isn't a single story with a plot, but a careful record of the stories he was told. He collected tales of the Tylwyth Teg (the Welsh fairies), ghostly apparitions, ancient burial customs, and superstitions about everything from farming to childbirth.

The Story

Think of this book as a series of snapshots. One chapter might tell you how to protect your butter from being magically stolen by a neighbor. The next recounts a first-hand story of a man who saw a phantom funeral—a vision of a coffin and mourners that predicted a real death days later. Davies presents these accounts plainly, often noting the name and village of the person who told him. It's a direct line to a vanishing oral tradition.

Why You Should Read It

What I love is how real it feels. These weren't just stories for entertainment; they were a framework for understanding the world. A strange noise at night wasn't just the wind—it could be a restless spirit. The book shows a deep connection to the landscape, where every lake, hill, and ancient stone had a story. It's humbling and a little eerie to see how differently people experienced reality just a few generations ago.

Final Verdict

This is a treasure for anyone curious about Welsh heritage, folklore, or social history. It's perfect for dipping into—read a few strange tales before bed. It's also a fantastic resource for writers looking for authentic folkloric inspiration. Just be warned: after reading, you might start looking at the Welsh countryside with a whole new, more mysterious, set of eyes.