It is always a pleasure to meet an author writing about their passion, particularly when they are working in their culture of origin. Mhara Starling's Y Mabinogi: Exploring the Magic and Wisdom of Welsh Mythology comes from a passionate love of the mythology of their culture. Sparked by the stories she was told, saw enacted around her, and took part in presenting, the tales of Y Mabinogi are foundational elements to much of modern fantasy.
The four branches are:
Pwyll Pendefig Dyffd, Pwyll, Prince of Dyfed
Branwen ferch Llyr (Branwen, Daughter of Llyr)
Manawydan fab Llyr (Manawydan, Son of Llyr)
Math fab Mathonwy (Math, son of Mathonwy)
Focusing on these branches of the Mabinogi (the Mabinogi "proper"), Startling examines these four branches on behalf of the curious pagan rather than as a scholar. Y Mabinogi is best read alongside a good translation, thereby gaining deeper insight and context.
As with all of the Pagan Portals books, this is a slim volume absolutely packed with information. Like the author themself, this is a big punch in a small package.
Highly recommended.
~review by Lisa McSherry
Author: Mhara Starling
Collective Ink Books, 2025
pp. 89, $12.95
