Synopses & Reviews
A uniquely personal collection of Oscar Wilde's stories, introduced by his very own grandson. Each tale is filled with wonder and joy.
Why, anyone can have common sense, provided that they have no imagination.
--From The Remarkable Rocket
The Happy Prince. The Selfish Giant. Anyone who has ever read these and other stories by Oscar Wilde will never forget the magical spell woven by his beautiful words. Now, Merlin Holland, the author's grandson and a distinguished writer and lecturer himself, presents 5 of Wilde's finest tales in their entirety. After an elegant and intimate discussion of Wilde's life, complete with family reminiscences, Holland introduces each tale with loving care. He helps young readers understand the stories' often profound themes and Wilde's very special use of language. In addition to Prince and Giant, the compilation includes The Nightingale and the Rose, The Devoted Friend, and The Remarkable Rocket. They are the perfect tales for parents and children to share.
Merlin Holland, the only grandson of Oscar Wilde, is an author and journalist living in France. For the last twenty years he has been researching his grandfather's life and works and he now writes, lectures and broadcasts regularly on the subject. His publications include: The Wilde Album (Fourth Estate,1995) which has been translated into seven languages; The Wit of Oscar Wilde (Folio Society, 1997); The Centenary Edition of the Complete Works of Oscar Wilde (HarperCollins,1999); The Oscar Wilde Anthology (HarperCollins, 2000); and The Complete Letters of Oscar Wilde (Fourth Estate, 2000).
Award-winning Louise Brierley studied art at Manchester Polytechnicand the Royal College of Art. She has illustrated numerous books, including Beauty and the Beast & Other Stories (Viking, 1996) and Songs from Shakespeare (Walker Books, 1993) and her paints have shown in many gallery exhibitions.
Synopsis
Three of Wilde’s short stories adapted into enchanting plays for young children
The Selfish Giant chases away spring and summer, leaving the garden in a permanent winter. Only when the giant realises his selfishness and opens his garden to the local children does the summer return bringing with it warmth, brightness and joy.
The people of the town celebrate the unveiling of their new statue of The Happy Prince. But all is not as it seems with this new golden statue. In his desire to help the poor and suffering in the town, the Prince persuades a migrating swallow to assist him, and a timeless tale of love and kindness is born.
What makes a good friend? Little Hans's best friend is Hugh the Miller but while Hans is happy to share all the lovely flowers and fruit from his garden, Hugh isn't quite so generous with his own things. Join three lively characters in The Devoted Friend as they explore the ups and downs of friendship in this new play for the very young.
Synopsis
Three of Oscar Wilde's stories adapted into enchanting plays for young children.