The Junior Classics, Volume 1: Fairy and Wonder Tales

A rich collection of fairy tales and folklore intended for children, likely compiled in the early 20th century. This anthology encompasses a variety of enchanting stories, including Native American tales, fables, and classic fairy tales from diverse cultures, aiming to cultivate a love for reading and an appreciation for literature among young readers aged six to sixteen. The opening of the collection presents a detailed introduction by Charles W. Eliot, emphasizing the educational value of well-chosen literature for children. It discusses how children's literary tastes are formed and advocates for the importance of guiding them towards high-quality stories that promote imagination, morals, and enjoyment in reading. As the text transitions into the fairy tales themselves, it introduces Manabozho, a mischievous giant, and sets a whimsical tone for the adventures that will unfold. Manabozho, characterized by his playful antics, learns valuable lessons about himself, his lineage, and his place in the natural world, setting the stage for the delightful stories that follow in this classic compilation.