These stories take place in palaces and humble cottages, but also on the open road, where the Gypsy traditionally felt most at home. The characters are often surrounded by enchantment and sometimes deal in magic.

Meet Clever Marco, who is outwitted by his own cunning. Encounter a bird who defeats a fox and a lion by knowing "there is great strength in weakness." See Sikri, the Gypsy girl who is trapped at the gates of time weaving upon a starry loom. Read about Magda, who lures unwary travelers into traps with her evil eye. Laugh at foolish Noodle who gets tricked out of his clothes; and admire Piccolo who, though not appreciated for his God-given gift of dance, learns to appreciate himself. With evil queens, devils, "Foolish Jack" stories, Welsh "black dog" stories, "green man" tales, and escapes from the supernatural, THE FISH BRIDE makes the Gypsy outlook on life come alive.

A Linnet Book. All ages, xvii, 90 p., illus., bibliog. Library binding, 0-208-02474-3, $22.50.