Looking for the hidden folk How Iceland's elves can save the earth

This rambling collection of linked essays considers the existence of elves. The "hidden folk" of Iceland, to be exact: well-known elves who stand out as recurring characters in Icelandic sagas and whose presence today causes highways to be diverted and special, sacred places to be left undisturbed. Brown (The Far Traveler, 2007; Ivory Vikings, 2015) visits Iceland frequently and is considered to be an expert in Icelandic literature and culture. She brings in elements of history, religion, science, politics, neuroscience, and environmental conservation to her considerations, quoting experts ranging from current financial gurus and tour guides to J. R. R. Tolkien. She also quotes known and unknown heralds from the past, sharing folktales and poems that date back over a thousand years. Brown admits that she feels a special connection to nature in Iceland, unlike any other place she's ever been. This results in glorious descriptions of Iceland's geysers and lava formations, plus some unforgettable descriptions of erupting volcanoes. Wherever readers stand on the elf question, they'll come away with a new appreciation for Iceland and its mysteries.

Skeptics might be thrown by the subtitle, but this book covers much more than elves in Iceland. Brown (The Real Valkyrie) calls for readers to be open to ideas and beliefs that will enable them to better appreciate and understand the earth. Using history, mythology, science, and literature, the book challenges readers to look beyond their current mindsets. The book references a wide range of thinkers and writers, including Tolkien, Barrie, Muir, Coleridge, and Nisbett. Others cited include an Icelandic elf-seer (a believer in their existence), a saga scholar, anthropologists, and neuroscientists. Brown's own travels and experiences in Iceland are also detailed, such as getting closer and closer to an active volcano. Calls to save the environment can be a tough sell to people; calls to change their mindset, to challenge their beliefs, can be even more difficult to achieve. Readers who appreciate exploring spiritual experiences in nature will be drawn to this style of writing. Those who already adhere to certain religious beliefs may have a difficult time accepting some of the book's assertions. VERDICT For readers who are willing to free their minds and engage with nature.--Elissa Cooper