Every culture and country has evolved a framework of stories to describe and reconcile the worlds of reality and imagination and the Isle of Man is no exception in providing us with a rich heritage of unique folklore.

Regrettably the awareness of many of the important mythological characters such as the friendly Fynoderee, the terrifying Bugganes, Teeval the Queen of the ocean, “Themselves”(the Manx branch of the fairies) and even Mannanin, the legendary ruler of the Isle Man (or Ellan Vannin in Manx Gaelic) has been lost to us in our modern age.

However, luckily for us, Alexander Caine Duncan, a Manx man born and bred, has taken up the pen and written, “Fynoderee.” Although it’s setting on the Island is contemporary this thrilling tale captures the essence of “ The Old World “which may still continue untouched and unobserved by mankind. As he reminds us, “It’s not magic, it’s just… different.”

Alexander, a highly accomplished and well respected actor on stage, has, in masterly style, incorporated these folklore characters into this exciting story without compromising their unique qualities.

His highly descriptive visual and often poetic text, laces humour and terror tightly together into an action packed adventure that demonstrates in a vivid way the values that are important in the struggle for the survival of any species, especially unsuspecting mankind!

This is a really rollicking good read on one level, but also far more than simple entertainment because the storyline encodes values important to all of us, and deals with morality, truth, love, faith, kindness, the eternal, greed versus need and the old adage of just helping each other. Without following these most fundamental laws life loses all predictability and disaster will almost certainly follow, even to the extent of the loss of an individual’s true identity.

The mythological framework of the story can make connections between aspects of reality that some might characterize as fantasy but in fact provide an important metaphor and image for today.

Alexander’s book reminds us not only of our own humanity, (indeed you might recognize a neighbour or even yourself!) but also and perhaps more importantly shows us what it might be like to be something that is NOT human.

He cleverly explores this theme as terrible choices have to be made, necessary for personal and community survival. As fortunes change and despite all appearances, those who ultimately save the day are sometimes the ones originally deemed the least likely!

William Faulds, another young Manx man and also an extremely talented artist, has provided the unique and original illustrations in “Fynoderee.” They subtly weave through the text creating intricate, powerful images and compliment the brooding atmosphere of the story. William has cleverly integrated both Celtic and Norse symbols and elements into his artwork and as a result they superbly reflect the Island’s cultural heritage.

“Fynoderee” is a book that will be enjoyed by those of all ages whose imaginations question the true reality of their surroundings. It is a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat as you turn the pages and have you glancing into the shadows long after you have finished it!

Angie Greenhalgh, Montreal, Canada, November 2006