Book details
The Tales of Mother Goose - Illustrated by D. J. Munro
Description
The Tales of Mother Goose, as first collected by Charles Perrault in 1696 are here presented, with a translation by Charles Welsh and an Introduction by M.V. O'Shea. 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 edition of 'Tales of Mother Goose' encompass favorites such 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 Thumb' and 'The Fairy.' The text is accompanied by the wonderful black-and-white illustrations of D. J. Munro; inspired by - and in the style of, the great artist Gustave Doré (1832 - 1883). Doré worked primarily with wood engraving, though also with watercolours, landscapes, and historical works. Presented alongside the text, Munro's images further refine and enhance Perrault's legendary storytelling. This is a book to be enjoyed and appreciated by both young and old alike.
Age
5-17
Text complexity
beginner
Length
96 pages
Book in series
#1
Why to read
- Classic Fairy Tales: 'The Tales of Mother Goose' is a collection of timeless fairy tales by Charles Perrault, including beloved stories such as 'Cinderella,' 'Sleeping Beauty,' and 'Little Red Riding Hood.' Reading these classic tales can provide a sense of nostalgia and a connection to the cultural heritage of storytelling.
- Cultural Significance: Charles Perrault's fairy tales have played a significant role in shaping Western literature and have influenced countless adaptations in various forms of media. Understanding these original stories can offer insights into the themes and morals that have resonated with audiences for centuries.
- Illustrations by D. J. Munro: The illustrated version of 'The Tales of Mother Goose' brings the stories to life with the artwork of D. J. Munro. His illustrations add a visual dimension to the tales, enhancing the reading experience and making the book a collector's item for fans of classic illustrations and fairy tale art.
- Literary Appreciation: Reading the works of Charles Perrault allows readers to appreciate the craft of storytelling and the development of the fairy tale genre. Perrault's use of language, narrative structure, and moral lessons provides a foundation for understanding how stories are constructed and the impact they can have on readers of all ages.