Delightful collection of stories about Icelandic elves, translated by the author from Icelandic Folk Tales and Legends by Jón Árnason and Magnús Grímsson, originally published in 1852. On their own, the stories are pretty grim and dark. Sigmundsdóttir also made the editorial choice to not edit repetitive details out too much, so you’re getting as close to the original as possible.

Luckily after each tale, Sigmundsdóttir provides any necessary context and interpretation of what the larger meaning and placement in Icelandic culture is. Her lighthearted tone makes this a fun and very informational read.