Here Be Dragons

Kickstarter Campaign Copy

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 can be found in church carvings, in the traditions of mumming plays and pageants, and in the stories passed down through generations. Seeking out their remnants does not only make for a fascinating pastime, but also provides us with some insight into the culture of past rural British societies. To these groups, dragons symbolized evil and destruction, embodying the fears and challenges of that time.

Here Be Dragons is a guidebook on all things dragon-related. Originally written by Ralph Whitlock and published in 1983, Here Be Dragons covers the history of dragons, the various different kinds of dragons, and folklore that surrounds them. Whitlock lists over 200 places across Great Britain where supposed evidence of dragons can be found.

This updated edition of Here Be Dragons has been meticulously illustrated by Welsh artist Rowynn Ellis, creator of Welsh Monsters & Mythical Beasts, reviving a classic piece of British history. With 28 brand new, 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 history enthusiasts alike. The book also features blackened edges, gold and silver foiling on the cover, and a bookmark ribbon so you never have to worry about losing your place while reading.

Here Be Dragons would be a great addition to the collections of those who are already fans of the original, as well as those who are not familiar with it, and just have an interest in the subject matter.

Back Cover Copy

In the 1970s, Ralph Whitlock walked the countryside of England, Scotland, and Wales to record places where dragons have left their mark… and the evidence of dragons was everywhere!

Dragons are woven into the folk history of villages and hamlets — they snarl from church adornments and they survive in mumming plays and other pageants. Tracing their remains, in whatever form they may be found, is not only a fascinating pastime but a glimpse into how our rural forbearers thought and behaved, for dragons often played the vital role of representing evil and destruction in the pantheon of the country dweller.

In this new edition of Here Be Dragons, readers get to experience the original engravings, photographs, and line drawings, as well as new contemporary images of dragons, inspired by Whitlock's research.

Here Be Dragons is an authentic sourcebook for folklorists, as well as an entertaining guide for would-be dragon hunters.

Biographies

Rowynn Ellis

Rowynn Auxin Ellis (formerly known as CCJ Ellis) is from Bangor North Cymru. They are a professional fantasy illustrator and author documenting Cymru folklore and mythical creatures. Much of Rowynn's artwork is inspired by strong emotions, nature, fantasy and mythology. They work mainly with pen, ink, watercolour and digital media.

Ralph Whitlock

Born in Salisbury, Wiltshire, England, Ralph Whitlock was a farmer, broadcaster, journalist and an author who wrote over one hundred books in his lifetime, including both children's and non-fiction. 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.