The Hounds of the Morrigan facts for kids
Cover of the original 1985 edition, as well as the 1999 reprint by HarperTrophy
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| Author | Pat O'Shea |
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| Country | United Kingdom |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Fantasy novel, Celtic mythology |
| Publisher | Oxford University Press |
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Publication date
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1985 |
| Media type | Print (Hardback & Paperback) |
| Pages | 688 pp |
| ISBN | 0-06-447205-1 |
| OCLC | 39875090 |
| LC Class | PZ7.O83 Ho 1999 |
The Hounds of the Morrigan is an exciting children's book written by Irish author Pat O'Shea. It came out in 1985, and it took her thirteen years to finish writing it! The story follows the amazing adventures of a 10-year-old boy named Pidge and his younger sister, Brigit. They find themselves in a big battle with characters from ancient Celtic mythology.
Contents
What the Story is About
In a bookshop in Galway, Pidge buys an old book called A Book of Patrick's Writing. By accident, he lets out an evil serpent named Olc-Glas from inside the book.
Suddenly, Pidge and his five-year-old sister, Brigit, are pulled into a huge fight. This battle is between good and evil. The good side is led by a powerful god called the Dagda. The evil side is led by the Morrigan, a mysterious goddess.
Talking animals and other magical beings from Celtic mythology help Pidge and Brigit. They even travel to a magical land called Tír na nÓg.
Where the Story Takes Place
The beautiful, natural countryside around Lough Corrib in Ireland was the main inspiration for the book's setting. This area is known for its stunning lakes and green landscapes.
Characters from Celtic Mythology
The book features many characters from old Irish myths. Here are some of them:
- Queen Maeve, her husband, Ailill, and their seven sons, the Maines
- Cathbad, a wise druid
- The goddess Brigid
- Angus Og, the god of love and youth
- The Morrigan, a powerful triple goddess, and her two helpers:
- Bodb, the Scald Crow
- Macha, the Queen of Phantoms
- Saint Patrick
- The Dagda, a powerful god
- Cúchulainn, a famous hero
How it Influenced Other Writers
Many writers have said that The Hounds of the Morrigan is one of their favorite books. Some have even mentioned that it helped inspire their own stories. Here are a few of them:
- Sarah Rees Brennan
- Roshani Chokshi
- Barry Hutchison
- Kieran Larwood
- Ruth Frances Long
- Katy Moran
- Emmet O’Cuana
- Sinéad O’Hart
- Laura Perry
- Taya Okerlund
- Robyn Young
Was There a Second Book?
Pat O'Shea was working on a second book, a sequel to The Hounds of the Morrigan, when she passed away. David Fickling, a publisher, wrote about the unfinished story. He said the few chapters she wrote were "brilliant." They described a lovely Christmas scene with carol singers and a robin. Then, the great Irish witch, the Morrigan, and her wild sisters arrive, bringing lots of magic and mischief.
