"A Wonder Book for Girls and Boys" is a collection of classic Greek mythology retellings written by Nathaniel Hawthorne, a prominent American novelist and short story writer known for his contributions to American literature in the 19th century. The book was first published in 1852 and has since become a beloved and enduring classic in children's literature.
In "A Wonder Book for Girls and Boys," Hawthorne adapts a selection of Greek myths and legends to make them more accessible and entertaining for a young audience. The stories are framed as a series of tales told by Hawthorne to a group of children who gather around him. The author's intention is to transport his young listeners into a magical world of mythology and wonder.
The book contains several retellings of well-known Greek myths, including:
"The Gorgon's Head" This story is a retelling of the Perseus and Medusa myth, focusing on Perseus's heroic quest to defeat the Gorgon and rescue Andromeda.
"The Golden Touch" This story features King Midas, who learns a valuable lesson when he is granted the power to turn everything he touches into gold.
"The Paradise of Children" In this tale, three children venture into the garden of the Hesperides and meet various mythological characters, including the dragon Ladon.
"The Three Golden Apples" This narrative explores the myth of Hercules as he embarks on a quest to retrieve the golden apples of the Hesperides.
"The Miraculous Pitcher" This story revolves around the adventures of a young boy named Epimetheus, who is gifted with a miraculous pitcher that provides an endless supply of food and drink.
Hawthorne's prose is both engaging and richly descriptive, making the stories come alive for readers of all ages. He weaves moral lessons and themes into these mythological tales, making them not only entertaining but also instructive. The book's title suggests its target audience, but its imaginative and well-crafted storytelling has made it a timeless classic, appealing to readers of all generations who appreciate the enduring magic and wisdom of Greek mythology.
