The Works of Charles and Mary Lamb — Volume 3: Books for Children

A collection of children's stories and verses written in the early 19th century. This volume encompasses various adaptations, primarily abridged retellings of classic tales such as Shakespeare's plays and other stories aimed at young readers, including poetic verses, narratives, and imaginative content designed to engage children's comprehension and love for literature. The beginning of this collection introduces the reader to its format and intent, emphasizing its purpose as an accessible introduction for children to the works of Shakespeare and engaging stories. The volume is curated to ensure that the language is suitable for young minds while retaining the essence of the original stories. The preface outlines how the adaptations are crafted, making them not only enjoyable but instructional, carefully selecting words that are approachable for children. As the opening unfolds, it specifically presents ''The Tempest,'' setting the stage for its magical and complex themes while maintaining a child-friendly approach. Characters such as Prospero, Miranda, and the spirit Ariel are introduced in a way that intrigues young readers, paving the way for an enchanting experience of classic literature.