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The Coming of the Fairies (Bison Books) — Spiritualism

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The Coming of the Fairies (Bison Books)

Name: The Coming of the Fairies (Bison Books)
Price: 15.95 USD
Availability: InStock
ISBN: 9780803266551

✍️ Doyle, Arthur Conan, Sir, John M Lynch

Reader Score

4.4

(1 review)

$15.95 ~~$21.00~~ Save $5.05 (24%)

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📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

Doyle examines the Cottingley fairy photographs with spiritualist skepticism.

This publication centers on a specific historical controversy rather than general occult theory. It documents the case of two Yorkshire girls and their alleged encounters with fairies. Doyle uses his reputation as a logical thinker to present the photographic evidence without forcing a conclusion. The text appeals to those studying the history of spiritualism or Doyle’s non-fiction works. It excludes broader discussions on witchcraft or celestial divination. The focus remains strictly on the Cottingley incident and its implications for belief in the supernatural during that era.

Key Themes

Cottingley photographs Spiritualist beliefs Fairy folklore

Literary Context

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle wrote this volume in 1922. He was a noted spiritualist at the time. The book addresses the Cottingley phenomenon involving two girls from Yorkshire. It reflects early twentieth-century interest in supernatural evidence and photographic proof within spiritualist circles.

Difficulty

● Easy

Recommended For Fans Of

Sherlock Holmes series · Cottingley Fairies historical accounts · Early spiritualist literature

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Spiritualism

Praise for this book

“The aging Conan Doyle, who was a noted spiritualist, in 1922 wrote this slim volume in which he presented the 'facts' of the phenomenon known as the 'Cottingley photographs, ' which depicted two young girls playing with what appear to be fairies. Though he apparently believed in their authenticity, Sir Arthur lets readers decide for themselves.”

— Library Journal

🏛 Bison Books 📅 2006 📖 189 pages 📔 Paperback ISBN: 9780803266551

Fun Fact

Doyle’s 'The Coming of the Fairies' is less a scientific treatise and more a passionate declaration of faith. It brilliantly showcases the author's profound spiritual convictions and his unwavering commitment to challenging materialistic worldviews. While those seeking rigorous empirical proof will be disappointed, readers interested in the history of spiritualism, early 20th-century folklore, or the fascinating complexities of Arthur Conan Doyle's mind will find this an indispensable and deeply thought-provoking artifact. It stands as a unique testament to the enduring human desire for magic in a rapidly modernizing world.

📝 Description: The Coming of the Fairies (Bison Books)

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, widely recognized for his Sherlock Holmes narratives but also a committed spiritualist, presents the Cottingley phenomenon in this 189-page volume. Published by Bison Books in October 2006, the text examines photographs that appear to show two young girls from Cottingley in Yorkshire interacting with fairies. Doyle asserts the authenticity of these images while allowing readers to form their own conclusions about the evidence. The work focuses on the specific incident involving the children and the resulting debate over supernatural claims. This slim volume offers a direct look at early twentieth-century spiritualist interests through the lens of a famous literary figure. It does not contain extensive folklore analysis or historical surveys of fairy lore beyond the immediate context of the photographs. Readers seeking detailed astrological charts, witchcraft rituals, or comprehensive occult history will find this text too narrow in scope. However, those interested in the intersection of literature and spiritualism, particularly how Doyle applied his investigative mindset to paranormal claims, will appreciate the straightforward presentation of facts. The book is organized around the central mystery of the Cottingley images. It provides a clear account of the event without adding speculative commentary or modern reinterpretations. The physical edition measures 1.24 centimeters in height and weighs 0.25 kilograms. It falls under the subjects of Mind, Body, Spirit and Supernatural & Unexplained. Library Journal notes that Doyle presents the facts for readers to decide, reflecting his balanced approach to the controversial topic.

💎 Expert review

“

💎

Esoterica Books editorial team

Occult literature desk

This book serves as a fascinating bridge between literary fiction and paranormal non-fiction. While it may frustrate readers who prefer Doyle strictly for his deductive mysteries, those open to exploring the author’s spiritualist convictions will find it engaging. The text does not suit skeptics seeking hard scientific proof, as it relies heavily on Doyle’s personal faith and subjective interpretation of events. However, for enthusiasts of esoteric history and biography, it provides a candid look at a celebrated figure’s struggle with the supernatural. It is a unique historical document that highlights the tension between logic and belief.

✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

Readers fascinated by the duality of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s legacy will find this volume particularly rewarding. It offers a rare, intimate glimpse into the mind of the man who created Sherlock Holmes, revealing his fervent conviction in ethereal beings rather than mere logical deduction. Those intrigued by the Cottingley Fairies phenomenon or the history of spiritualism will appreciate Doyle’s meticulous presentation of photographic evidence and his passionate arguments for nature spirits. It is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand how a celebrated author grappled with faith, perception, and the boundaries of reality, providing a compelling exploration of the supernatural through the eyes of one of history's most intriguing figures.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Esoterica Books —

⭐ Esoterica editorial review Editorial rating 4.5/5

★★★★★

If you're fascinated by the history of spiritualism, the intersection of belief and skepticism, or the lesser-known pursuits of literary giants, this book is for you. Dive into a captivating exploration of the supernatural through the eyes of a master storyteller.

Reader rating

4.4

Based on 1 reviews

Esoterica Books editorial team

This book serves as a fascinating bridge between literary fiction and paranormal non-fiction. While it may frustrate readers who prefer Doyle strictly for his deductive mysteries, those open to exploring the author’s spiritualist convictions will find it engaging. The text does not suit skeptics seeking hard scientific proof, as it relies heavily on Doyle’s personal faith and subjective interpretation of events. However, for enthusiasts of esoteric history and biography, it provides a candid look at a celebrated figure’s struggle with the supernatural. It is a unique historical document that highlights the tension between logic and belief.

❓ Frequently asked questions

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle presented 'The Coming of the Fairies' as a factual, non-fictional account and a serious investigation into the existence of these entities.

The Cottingley Fairies refer to a series of five photographs taken by two young girls in Cottingley, Yorkshire, England, between 1917 and 1920, which purportedly depicted real fairies.

📖 Who should read this

🎯 Key themes and symbolism

Spiritualism and Conviction

The book serves as a testament to Doyle's deep-seated spiritualist beliefs, revealing how his personal philosophy led him to wholeheartedly embrace extraordinary claims. It explores the framework of his conviction, demonstrating how a man known for rational deduction applied a different lens to matters of the unseen and the mystical.

Evidence and Perception

Doyle’s work meticulously examines the now-famous Cottingley photographs, presenting them as irrefutable proof of fairy existence. This theme investigates what constitutes 'evidence' in the realm of the supernatural, and how individual worldview profoundly shapes interpretation, particularly when faced with phenomena that defy conventional understanding.

Challenging Materialism

At its core, this book is an argument against strict materialism, proposing that the universe holds more mysteries and spiritual dimensions than science alone admits. Doyle uses the fairy phenomenon to advocate for a broader, more inclusive understanding of reality, urging readers to consider the unseen forces and intelligences that might share our world.

📜 Historical context

Published in 1922, this work emerged during a period of intense public interest in spiritualism, partly fueled by the tragedies of World War I. It reflects a widespread desire for connection with the unseen and a challenge to burgeoning scientific materialism. Doyle's involvement lent significant credibility, anchoring the Cottingley affair firmly in early 20th-century paranormal investigation and folklore studies.

📚 Glossary

Spiritualism
Ethereal
Materialism

📔 Questions to reflect on

How do your personal beliefs influence what you consider to be credible evidence, particularly in matters of the supernatural or unexplained?
Reflect on a time when you encountered something that defied your logical understanding. How did you reconcile that experience with your worldview?
In what ways might a society's prevailing scientific or spiritual paradigms limit or expand its perception of reality?