Told Again: Old Tales Told Again - Updated Edition

Hardback

Main Details

Title Told Again: Old Tales Told Again - Updated Edition
Authors and Contributors      By (author) Walter de la Mare
Illustrated by A.H. Watson
Introduction by Philip Pullman
SeriesOddly Modern Fairy Tales
Physical Properties
Format:Hardback
Pages:248
Dimensions(mm): Height 203,Width 140
Category/GenreModern and contemporary fiction (post c 1945)
ISBN/Barcode 9780691159218
ClassificationsDewey:823.912
Audience
General
Edition Revised edition
Illustrations 38 line illus.

Publishing Details

Publisher Princeton University Press
Imprint Princeton University Press
Publication Date 26 October 2014
Publication Country United States

Description

Originally published in 1927, Told Again is an enchanting collection of elegant fairy tales, showcasing the formidable talents of a writer who used magical realism before the term had even been invented. Walter de la Mare (1873-1956) was one of the most celebrated writers of children's literature during the first half of the twentieth century--so much so that W. H. Auden edited a selection of his poems and British children could recite de la Mare's verses by heart. His abundant literary gifts can be savored once more in this new edition. With marvelous black and white illustrations by A. H. Watson, this volume includes a splendid introduction by Philip Pullman, the contemporary master of fantasy literature. The significance of the nineteen adapted classics in Told Again lies in de la Mare's poetic insights and graceful prose, which--as Pullman indicates in his introduction--soften and sweeten the originals, making these tales appropriate for younger readers. In "The Four Brothers," the siblings allow the princess to choose her own husband rather than argue over her; and in "Rapunzel," de la Mare discreetly leaves out details of the prince's tortured, blind search for his love. Familiar stories, such as "Little Red Riding-Hood," "Rumplestiltskin," and "The Sleeping Beauty" are also made new through de la Mare's expansive, descriptive, and lyrical prose. Pullman covers important details about de la Mare's life and captures the stylistic intention behind the rewriting of these wonderful favorites. Reviving the work of a writer who exemplified a romantic vision and imagination, Told Again is a remarkable retelling of fairy tales touched by mystery and magic.

Author Biography

Philip Pullman's many books include the best-selling and award-winning children's series, His Dark Materials (Knopf). He recently edited and introduced Fairy Tales from the Brothers Grimm (Viking).

Reviews

"[A] wonderful book."--Michael Dirda, Washington Post