The Happy Prince was first published in 1888 and Oscar Wilde wrote it, along with his other fairy tales, for his two young sons Vyvyan and Cecil. It is just as important now as it was when it was written and it's impossible not be moved by the beautiful ending, or by the generosity and selflessness of the statue and the swallow. The story also contains a warm humour that young and old will enjoy and so is a gentle introduction to satire for those having it read to them as a bedtime story! (Its town councillors are probably "still" arguing.) Cassie Seddon provides an entertaining and personal 'editor's introduction' and Peter Davies has created a memorable image of The Happy Prince in his 'golden' days.
The Happy Prince was first published in 1888 and Oscar Wilde wrote it, along with his other fairy tales, for his two young sons Vyvyan and Cecil. It is just as important now as it was when it was written and it's impossible not be moved by the beautiful ending, or by the generosity and selflessness of the statue and the swallow. The story also contains a warm humour that young and old will enjoy and so is a gentle introduction to satire for those having it read to them as a bedtime story! (Its town councillors are probably "still" arguing.) Cassie Seddon provides an entertaining and personal 'editor's introduction' and Peter Davies has created a memorable image of The Happy Prince in his 'golden' days.
