Book details
Tales of Passed Times
Description
'Tales of Passed Times' is a collection of Charles Perrault's fairy tales, accompanied by the beautiful illustrations of John Austen. A French nobleman and writer, Perrault (1628 - 1703) was among the first writers to bring magical children's stories into the literary mainstream, proving to his original seventeenth century readers (and those in the present day!) that such works were important, enjoyable, as well as thought-provoking. The stories in this particular text include such favourites as 'Blue Beard', 'Little Red Riding-Hood', 'Sleeping Beauty', 'Puss in Boots' and 'Cinderella' - as well as other, less well known tales such as 'Riquet of the Tuft', 'Little Thumbling' and 'Princess Rosette.' These stories of 'Tales of Passed Times' are accompanied by a set of dazzling colour illustrations from a true master of the 'Golden Age of Illustration' - John Austen (1886 - 1946). His early works, including a fine 'Hamlet', were Beardsleyesque in style, but after 1925, Austen was heavily influenced by the Art Deco movement. His illustrations continue to delight both young and old alike, right up to the present day. They are here presented alongside the text - further refining and elucidating Perrault's legendary storytelling. Pook Press celebrates the great 'Golden Age of Illustration' in children's classics and fairy tales - a period of unparalleled excellence in book illustration. We publish rare and vintage Golden Age illustrated books, in high-quality colour editions, so that the masterful artwork and story-telling can continue to delight both young and old.
Age
5-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
68 pages
Why to read
- Classic Fairy Tales: 'Tales of Passed Times' by Charles Perrault is a collection of classic fairy tales that have been beloved by generations. Reading these stories gives you a chance to experience the original versions of tales such as 'Cinderella,' 'Sleeping Beauty,' and 'Little Red Riding Hood,' which have become cultural touchstones around the world.
- Cultural Significance: Perrault's fairy tales have played a significant role in shaping Western storytelling traditions and children's literature. Understanding these stories provides insight into the themes, morals, and social norms of the time when they were written, as well as how they have influenced modern storytelling.
- Literary Appreciation: Reading 'Tales of Passed Times' allows readers to appreciate Perrault's literary style and his ability to weave together enchanting narratives with moral lessons. His use of language, characterization, and plot development are noteworthy and offer a rich reading experience.
- Entertainment and Imagination: Despite their age, Perrault's fairy tales continue to captivate readers with their magical elements, adventurous plots, and engaging characters. They stimulate the imagination and provide entertainment for readers of all ages, making them timeless classics that are enjoyable to revisit or discover for the first time.