First published in 1870-1 as a serial in GOOD WORKS FOR THE YOUNG, a magazine of Christian outlook, George MacDonald's fantasy is reguarded by his admirers as his finest novel. The story of the virtuous Princess Irene and the wicked goblins with heads as hard as stone has a strong moral overtone but is enjoyed by readers of all ages. The author said: 'I do not write for children, but for the child-like, whether of five, or fifty, or seventy-five'. Arthur Hughes, a follower of the Pre-Raphaelite movement, was a close friend ...
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First published in 1870-1 as a serial in GOOD WORKS FOR THE YOUNG, a magazine of Christian outlook, George MacDonald's fantasy is reguarded by his admirers as his finest novel. The story of the virtuous Princess Irene and the wicked goblins with heads as hard as stone has a strong moral overtone but is enjoyed by readers of all ages. The author said: 'I do not write for children, but for the child-like, whether of five, or fifty, or seventy-five'. Arthur Hughes, a follower of the Pre-Raphaelite movement, was a close friend of the author and provided the perfect illustrative accompaniment to his work.
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A decidedly delightful fairy tale, of honor, bravery, and peril!
This is my first of George MacDonald's, and I can honestly say I enjoyed this little fantasy adventure. I so enjoyed following the Princess, as she has now become a favorite literary character of mine, the way she so sweetly handles her royal privileges.
I'm now looking forward to the sequel!
Daniel G
Oct 7, 2014
Spirituality Taught Through a Fairy Tale
Another wonderful book by the late George MacDonald,as he uses tales that appeal to both children and adults.
I'm 72 and I'm still reading these wonderful stories written years ago by MacDonald.
MacDonald was a mentor for C.S.Lewis....and Lewis got his ideas of using literature mainly directed at children to get his points across concerning his beliefs about God and Spiritualty.
These stories are loved by both adults and children to this day.....
The stories are wonderful and the message is even more wonderful.
I love them.
KLILALY
Sep 8, 2011
Deep in the mountain
A children's book suitable for a ten year old with some imagination. I found that too much of the story was underground in the dark.
Judith H
Jul 29, 2010
I remember reading this as a chid in an old book with engravings. I enjoyed it almost as much this time through so many years later but I do miss the old engravings. This story is a pleasant fantasy for the youth without the twistedness or bad attitudes so prevalent in much of what I have read for young people in recent years. Written in the 1800's the children are polite and considerate, generally obedient to the authorities over them whether a "nurse" or a parent.
Lisette
Jun 21, 2010
Wonderful fairy tale!
I read this book as a kid and am now reading it to my class of 3rd and 4th graders. It's a wonderful old story about a princess and a young boy who save a kingdom. The kids LOVE it and can't wait to hear more every day.