Ep 09. The Luck of the Irish
This week, we're exploring the history of fairies around the world from Asia to Africa and ultimately, Ireland! Learn the origins of "the people of the mounds" including leprechauns as we discuss Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer.
“…A riveting, magical adventure that the author describes as ‘Die Hard’ with fairies…”
Published in 2001, the first book in the Artemis Fowl series written by Eoin Colfer follows the story of twelve-year-old Artemis Fowl-- a millionaire, a genius, and above all, a criminal mastermind. But even Artemis doesn't know what he's taken on when he-- with the help of his bodyguard Butler-- kidnaps a fairy, Captain Holly Short of the Lower Elements Police recon Unit. These aren't the fairies of bedtime stories—they're dangerous!
Check it out on GoodReads
Duende
A duende is a small, humanoid creature from Iberian, Latin American, and Filipino folklore. The Spanish term duende originated as a contraction of the phrase dueño de casa or duen de casa, "possessor of a house", and was originally conceptualized as a mischievous spirit inhabiting a house. Wikipedia
Leprechaun
A leprechaun (Irish: leipreachán/luchorpán) is a diminutive supernatural being in Irish folklore, classed as a type of solitary fairy. They are usually depicted as little bearded men, wearing a green coat and hat, who partake in practical jokes and mischief. Traditionally, leprechauns are shoemakers. Fairies love to dance and constantly wear out their shoes! So leprechauns had the important role of shoemaking and repair. This lucrative trade is said to to how they amass their pots of gold.