classic collection of magical myths (Fairy Tales and Fantastic Stories - Terry Jones)

Member Name: reknaw

Product:	Fairy Tales and Fantastic Stories - Terry Jones
Date:	18/05/01 (354 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Timeless

Disadvantages: None to think of

This beautifully-bound book comprises over 50 tales, that originally came out under the title of "Fairy Tales". The foreword discloses that these stories were made up for Jones' daughter when she was a child.

Terry Jones' imagination has already been proven by his numerous TV and film features, but this book exposes just how creatively talented he is as a writer. Each story is small yet succinct, with some brilliant twists and morals. Many more of them are deeply touching, showing a level of emotion that had previously only been hinted at by people like Disney. One such story, "Eyes-all-Over" concerns a shrewd and cruel old man who holds every power except wisdom. He eventually loses the one thing that keeps him most content, and it has never failed to touch me by its simplistic philosophy.

The book is split into two distinct sections, Tales and Stories, although there is honestly little to tell between the two. They are beautifully illustrated, and the watercolour drawings add a real perspective and vibrancy to the writing - the two complement each other so well.

As a primary teacher, it is my classes' favourite book for me to read to them, and to find a storybook that captivates them so well is worth its weight in gold. In short, it is magical and charmed.

Summary: