A Wonder Book for Boys and Girls

Teeming with monsters, magic, and adventure, this children's classic by one of America's greatest writers retells in captivating narrative six legendary tales of incredible warriors and evil creatures. Using a fictional narrator who tells engrossing stories to his young relatives on quiet hillsides, in secluded vales, and other attractive settings, Nathaniel Hawthorne draws his readers into the imaginative and ancient world of Greek mythology. There, they meet King Midas, the man with an unusual power, in "The Golden Touch"; Hercules, the legendary hero and strongman, in "The Three Golden Apples"; cruel witches with snakes for hair, in "The Gorgon's Head"; and "The Chimaera," a monster that is part lion, part goat, and part snake. An enchanting account of Pandora and an enticing box is recounted in "The Paradise of Children," while "The Miraculous Pitcher" tells a heartwarming tale about the rewards of hospitality and goodness. An excellent way to acquaint youngsters with a number of classical heroes and evil-doers, A Wonder Book will enchant readers of all ages. Book jacket.