This beautiful book reveals the magic, customs, culture and language of mermaids and merfolk, gathered together by a mysterious organisation – the order of the oceanic council from their fortress by the sea.

From the watery artefacts of the Mermaids Cave of Curiosities, the language of mermaid tails and records of encounters with seafolk, mermaids gifts, creatures of the deep, weapons and mer-charms and jewellery, this book is an amazing record of these creatures who have fascinated and intrigued human beings for thousands of years. By sharing these secret histories with us, Professor Ari Berk and the order of the oceanic council are endeavouring to instill a new understanding of the deep creatures and a mutual respect between humans and the
secret folk.

Invited to join the order, readers are privy to the fascinating world of giants, including the mysteries of what a giants keeps in his sack; giant costume and clothing; the life cycle of giants and the mind-boggling evidence of giants that can be found today in landscape features around the world (Cerne Abbas hillside giant, Giant's Causeway, stone circles). Meet the world's most famous giants, including Goliath, Gogmagog and the 9'3" Child of Hale. A fascinating and beautifully presented volume, not to be missed!

Named a 2009 Notable Book by The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE).

A Parents' Choice 2008 recommended award winner.

“Full as a giant’s stomach, packed to bursting with agreeable nonsense” Kate Kellaway, The Observer Review of Children’s Books

"A visual treat and a browser’s delight." Junior Education Plus