English Fairy Tales

Many generations of children have enjoyed the enduringly popular fairy tale collections of Joseph Jacobs, one of England's foremost folklorists. Through every change of fashion, their ability to delight and entertain has continued undiminished. The king and queens, the wicked giants, the clever youngest sons, the talking animals and trees, the magic cloaks that make their wearers invisible--these elements stirred the imagination of our parents and ourselves, and will give as much pleasure to our children.

In this first of Jacobs' collections, many of the 43 tales will be familiar. Included are "Jack and the Beanstalk," "The Story of the Three Bears," "Henny Penny," and others. The tale of Mr. and Mrs. Vinegar who lived in a vinegar bottle, the story of "Nix Nought Nothing," of "Mollie Whuppie," and of many others are less well known and will offer a refreshing change from the well-worn favorites.