The King of Ireland's Son

"The King of Ireland's Son" by Padraic Colum is a fantasy novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows Connal, the wild eldest son of the King of Ireland, who becomes embroiled in a series of magical adventures after winning two wagers with a mysterious old man. As he navigates encounters with enchanted creatures and faces dire challenges set forth by the Enchanter of the Black Back-Lands, Connal's journey is one of self-discovery, courage, and the quest for love. The opening of the book introduces King Connal and his rebellious son, who enjoys hunting and riding despite his royal status. The prince first meets the gray old man while on a morning ride, and after playing a game of cards, he makes a wager that leads to an unexpected outcome: a field filled with enchanted cattle. As the story unfolds, he faces various trials initiated by the Enchanter, which require him to seek help and confront difficult choices, including a desperate quest for magical hairs from the Enchanter’s beard. What begins as a carefree pursuit quickly becomes a tale filled with danger and enchantment, setting the stage for Connal's growth and the adventures that lie ahead.