Want to know how much of a book addict I am? I found a copy of Unwitting Wisdom : An Anthology of Aesop’s Fables by Helen Ward at Half Price Books for a dollar and even though I already have a copy I bought it anyway It is simply too gorgeous of a book to pass up for a dollar. I will give it to someone as a gift.
Finding the book today inspired me to share it with you. If you haven’t seen this beautiful work of art and literature I encourage you to seek it out.
For over 2,500 years the simple stories and wry humor of Aesop’s fables have entertained children and adults alike. Their lessons have seeped into the very fabric of our language, as evidenced by expressions such as “sour grapes” and “a wolf in sheep’s clothing.”
Through the centuries many artists have risen to the challenge of interpreting their favorite tales. In this magnificent edition, award-winning illustrator Helen Ward has chosen a dozen of her favorite fables, painstakingly creating with words and breathtaking watercolors a dazzling new collection destined to become a classic.
I loved this book from the moment I saw it in the book store. And I remember reading it to my daughter when she was a baby. It is a wonderful combination of illustrations and storytelling. The blurb above really doesn’t exaggerate about “creating with words and breathtaking watercolors a dazzling new collection destined to become a classic.”
This is a great book for story time, for just leafing through and enjoying the gorgeous illustrations or for reading on a quiet afternoon to appreciate the timeless stories.
For a taste of the illustrations see below.
