The Tale of Tam Linn by Lari Don and Philip Longson (Picture Kelpies)

The second of our reviews of the stunning new range from Picture Kelpies retells a traditional Scottish folk tale, The Tale of Tam Linn. Steeped in legend, Lari Don's retelling of this classic fable feels tightly written and immensely appealing for a wide range of ages.

The hero of the tale, Janet, is a young curious girl who is forbidden to venture into the woods near her castle home. Local legends tell of a child, stolen by an evil fairy queen to do her bidding, and dangerous magic woven deeply into the forest.

Janet (like most curious heroes) doesn't heed the warning and wants to find out the truth. She meets a fairy knight, none other than Tam Linn himself and befriends the woe-struck boy.

The fairy queen is furious at their new found friendship and vows that she can make Tam Linn turn on Janet. As she warps him into a frightening collection of animals and creatures, Janet struggles to hold on to Tam Linn, to save him from the fairy queen's evil curse.

As adventure stories go, this is truly stunning stuff. Lari's writing and the utterly sumptuous and gorgeous illustrations by Philip Longson bring this tale to dazzling life.

We have another Picture Kelpies review coming up on the blog (The Selkie Girl) so keep 'em peeled!

Charlotte's best bit: The thrilling conclusion to the story as Janet struggles to hold Tam Linn to prevent him from turning on her. Stunning and exciting stuff!

Daddy's Favourite bit: The Picture Kelpies range is aiming high with truly beautiful artwork, tightly wrought tales and luxurious presentation. Really do not pass these books by, they're amazing!

(Kindly sent to us for review by Picture Kelpies)