Here Be Dragons - by Ralph Whitlock (Hardcover)

About the Book

This updated Here Be Dragons explores British dragon folklore with 28 stunning illustrations by Rowynn Ellis. Blending 59 original engravings and photos with new art, it vividly brings legendary creatures to life.

Book Synopsis

Dragons are deeply embedded in the folklore of the British countryside, their presence echoing through the history of countless hamlets and villages. These mythical creatures snarl from church carvings, linger in the traditions of mumming plays and pageants, and live on in the stories passed down through generations. Tracing their remnants--whether in art, legend, or ritual--offers more than just a fascinating pursuit; it provides a window into the lives, beliefs, and practices of our rural ancestors. To them, dragons symbolized evil and destruction, embodying the fears and challenges of their time.

This updated edition of Here Be Dragons is meticulously illustrated by Welsh artist, Rowynn Ellis, reviving a classic piece of British history. With 28 mesmerizing illustrations, the artistic stylings of Rowynn Ellis bring dragons to life in vibrant colour and detailed sketches. 59 engravings and photographs from the original book blend with art to create this invaluable resource for folklorists and would-be dragon-hunters alike.

About the Author

Rowynn Ellis is a full-time illustrator, author, and researcher of mytho-zoology from North Wales, U.K, and their fantastic work is inspired by fantasy, legend, and Welsh culture. Their artwork has been exhibited across the U.K at numerous Comic Cons, solo exhibitions, and three successful Kickstarter campaigns, including Welsh Monsters and Mythical Beasts, the precursor to this book.

Born in Salisbury, Wiltshire, England, Ralph Whitlock was a farmer, broadcaster, journalist and author. Over the course of his life, Whitlock wrote over one hundred books, including both children's and non-fiction, penning some of which under different pseudonyms. Much of Whitlock's writing was influenced by his conservationism and his farm upbringing. His knowledge on farming, forestry as well as sustainability aided him in the writing of many of his non-fiction books. Whitlock's love of the land also inspired him to write several books about British country life and its history, examining the traditions, practices, and folklore of his ancestors