I registered for this book for our infant, and I can't wait to read it to her (a few years from now, obviously...). Unlike some Aesop's Fables (which are rewritten or dumbed down) this one is a 17th Cent. trans by L'Estrange with engravings. It's clever and amusing (so many of the fables have to do with avoiding court flattery! Obviously quite a concern for them...) If you're looking for a picture book for young children, this probably is not what you're looking for, but if you want to fill your child's... more info
A Classic of English Literature:
The Everyman Library deserves congratulations for reprinting the L'Estrange translation, which has been a much loved, much abused, and highly influential collection of Aesop since it first appeared in 1692. Its merits have little to do with its translation, since L'Estrange translated from a Latin translation of the Greek fables, and translated freely at that. Instead, it's the lively retellings, and the shamelessly opinionated "reflections" (usually longer than the fables themselves) that make this volume... more info
The Original Fables from which all others seem to have decended:
Legend has it that Aesop lived during the sixth century BC. He was born a deformed slave and in some of the early stories was said to of had a speech impediment as well. In his lifetime he supposedly was owned by two different masters before the latter of which gave him his freedom as a reward for his wit and intelligence. As a free man it is theorized that he then became involved in public affairs and traveled a lot, telling his fables along the way. His fables went on to be among the first printed works... more info
Definitive version:
This 17th century translation by Everyman's Library, while at times difficult because of the Elizabethan English, contains expanded reflections that explain the moral behind each story. This edition emphasizes the importance of character building and morality rather than mere entertainment. Presented in a schoolbook style, this text is a wonderful book for adults as well, especially those concerned about the education of their children. Be sure to read the Preface. Includes a lengthy introduction to the... more info
