Book details
The Blue Fairy Book - Illustrated by H. J. Ford and G. P. Jacomb Hood (Andrew Lang's Fairy Books)
Description
The Blue Fairy Book - Illustrated by H. J. Ford - Volume I contains such classic fairy tales as, 'East of the Sun, West of the Moon', 'The Yellow Dwarf', 'Little Red Riding Hood', 'Rumpelstiltzkin', 'Why the Sea is Salt', 'The White Cat' and many more. This 'Blue Book' forms part of Andrew Lang's 'Coloured' Fairy Books series - a series of twelve collections of fairy tales, published between 1889 and 1910. Each volume is distinguished by its own colour, and all in all, 437 tales from a wide array of cultures and countries are presented. Andrew Lang (1844 - 1912) was a Scots poet, novelist and literary critic, with a passion for folkloric story telling. Most of his volumes (including this, 'The Blue Fairy Book') were beautifully illustrated by Henry J. Ford (1860 - 1941), an inordinately talented artist who came to public attention with his illustrations for Lang. The books captured the imagination of British children, and later became worldwide bestsellers in the 1880s and 1890s.
Age
9-12
Text complexity
beginner
Length
438 pages
Book in series
#1
Why to read
- Classic Fairy Tales: 'The Blue Fairy Book' is the first volume in Andrew Lang's series of fairy tale collections. It includes timeless stories like 'Cinderella,' 'Aladdin,' 'Beauty and the Beast,' and 'Little Red Riding Hood.' Reading these classic tales can connect you to the rich tradition of folklore and storytelling that has been passed down through generations.
- Cultural Significance: Fairy tales are an integral part of cultural heritage worldwide. They often contain moral lessons, cultural values, and archetypal characters that are still relevant today. By reading 'The Blue Fairy Book,' you gain insight into the themes and narratives that have shaped human culture.
- Beautiful Illustrations: The book is renowned for its enchanting illustrations by H. J. Ford and G. P. Jacomb Hood. These artists bring the stories to life with their intricate and imaginative drawings, enhancing the reading experience and sparking the imagination of readers of all ages.
- Literary Merit: Andrew Lang was a notable folklorist, poet, and critic, and his work in compiling and editing these fairy tales has been praised for its literary quality. Reading 'The Blue Fairy Book' allows you to appreciate Lang's contribution to literature and his skill in preserving these tales in a form that is both accessible and engaging.