I have this book, and I love it! There's a lot of story telling (as it is the way with the fae). Their not "just" runes, but story tales of how the runes came to be. And their not "traditional" runes either. I showed the book to a friend of mine how's really into studying all types of religion, language, and especially anything having to do with witch craft. She's specializes with the celtic and norse mythology. She said that these runes isn't the traditional alphabet that is "normally" used, although some of the writing is the same, but the symbols are used in representing different letters. She said that she would be especially interested in where the author (not illustrator Brian Froud) got the history of the runes, and how "he" tied it with elves. I don't necessarily care for all of that (not my cup of tea, was always bad at history) but in case if you are looking for actual documented proof and historical (something) then this is not it. However, it's a fun book to read, and I like the runes, and find a truth in the stories. Then again, that's the beauty in religion, the right and ability to believe in whatever you find faith in. I would recommend that you go to the nearest "major" bookstore you have (barnes and nobles, or a borders books and music, walden books, something along those lines) and look through the book. Then decide.