This is probably one of the best - ever- Halloween (Samhain) stories. During this Rathcroghan feast, given by Ailill and Medb, Nera, has to face up to his boastful words and undertake a terrifying quest, through the Samhain-dark land and into another world and time. It is an remscéla adventure that will ensure Nera's role in the great Battle of the Bulls, the Táin Bó Cúailnge.

Practical bits

The story is in two parts

Part 2 begins at 11.30 mins

For adults: Find out more about the background to this story.

Irish mythological and hero tales were not originally written for a young audience. No they were intended for an adult audience gathered together at feasts, Óenachs and to mark special events,. Youngsters may well have been present, may have enjoyed them, but tales weren't considered as juvenelia.

However they contain so much that younger audience will enjoy. They are full of adventures and wonders. They have characters, both male and female who show courage, compassion, and comradeship and who demonstrate a sense of wonder, a sense of purpose, and, most definitely a sense of humour.

I tell all of these stories regularly in schools and libraries. I have also recorded them as audio stories and I am happy to share them. Why? Well first they need to be shared. Second, I love audiobooks. As a story teller, think these stories work best in this format.

Hsve fun. Chris