BOOK REVIEW - Selene The most famous bull-leaper on Earth
Mike
(Illustrated by Carol Clement) © 1976 Diana Press ISBN:
0-88447-010-5 50 pages paperback $3.75
My daughter and I were talking, the other day, about books I have
reviewed and commenting on some of the books she wishes I had
reviewed. Suddenly she remembered this book and she dug it out of the
bookcase. She got it from the author (her Fairy Goddess Mother) and
asked me if I would like to do a review.
Considering that it was one of the first books written by a Pagan, for
Pagan children, and thus the forerunner (in many ways) of the flood of
Pagan-friendly publishing we are blessed with today. I couldn’t pass
up the chance to look back.
Before I get into the review, I need to say a few things in the
interest of fairness and honesty. First – I Zsuzsanna personally.
Second – I am not a huge fan of the Feminist-Dianic movement,
preferring a more balanced approach in worship. Finally - I went on
line to determine if this book was still available from any source,
what I found was that there are a few used copies for sale on eBay,
but the prices are way out of sight for the casual reader ($43 to
about $250).
This is a story of a Cretan bull-leaper and is profusely illustrated
in a style in keeping with Cretan frescos. This does not mean a
slavish reproduction of those artworks, but a faithfulness to their
overall style. It is a simple story, as it should be. It is aimed at
young women as a means of instilling confidence and self-esteem.
Obviously, its emphasis in on the Goddess and her servants, but along
the way it provides a bit of history and of mythology. It is a gentle
story. In keeping with the perception of matriarchal societies which
was much in vogue at the time it was written.
The one regret I have with this story is that, to the best of my
knowledge, Z. never carried through with her plans for at least two
sequels. I would like to see how Selene handled other turning points
in her life. Perhaps Z., or one of her students could pick up her
story and carry it forward.