The Andrew Lang Library

In which the editor graciously introduces a fresh collection of fairy tales drawn from a variety of European sources, promising a trove of lesser-known enchantments alongside familiar favourites. This preface gently acknowledges the contributions of translators and friends, setting the stage for a new journey into the realms of fairyland.

In which a thoughtful cow-boy named Michael, known as the Star Gazer, ventures from his village to the castle of Beloeil in pursuit of a princess’s hand, seeking to unveil the mysterious nocturnal escapades of twelve princesses whose satin shoes wear through each night. Through dreams, magic laurels, and discreet courage, he follows them to a dazzling ballroom hidden beneath the silver, gold, and...

In which two brothers set out to seek their fortunes bearing cakes baked with either blessing or curse, and learn of the dreadful Red Etin and his three-headed terror. The tale follows the third young man, who, armed with a fairy’s gift and wise counsel, bravely confronts the fearsome beast and uncovers the secrets hidden within the Etin’s castle.

In which three princes, each setting out to find the most extraordinary rarity to win the hand of their cousin the princess, journey to distant lands and acquire magical and wondrous treasures of great renown. Prince Ahmed, uncovering hidden marvels and forming a mysterious alliance with the fairy Paribanou, finds himself entwined in the intrigues of his father’s court, where power and enchantment...

In which three sisters seek their fortunes, each summoned by mysterious coaches or a fearsome Black Bull, leading to wondrous castles and strange adventures that require patience, courage, and a watchful heart. The tale unfolds with enchantments, tokens of hope in the form of precious fruits, and the steadfast spirit of a maiden who endures trials to reunite with her companion and claim her destin...

In which a brave lad named Jack, inspired by tales of knights and magic, sets out on a bold quest to rid the land of fearsome giants and rescue those oppressed by their dreadful power. Through a series of cunning feats and enchanted gifts, he overcomes monstrous foes and brings peace to the troubled realm, earning honour and reward.

In which a little tailor, emboldened by his own cleverness and a proud inscription on his girdle, sets out on a daring adventure that brings him into the company of giants and the notice of a king. Through a series of trials that test wit and courage, he ascends from humble beginnings to a royal position, navigating unexpected challenges with nimble resourcefulness.

In which a humble young man braves strange and fearsome occurrences in a meadow on St. John’s night and tames wonderful steeds of striking brightness, whilst his elder brothers falter in their duties. Meanwhile, a remarkable challenge is set to win a princess’s hand, involving the ascent of a perilous glass hill that baffles the finest knights in the land.

In which a ship's surgeon endures a shipwreck and finds himself a captive in the remarkable land of Lilliput, where tiny people bind him and treat him with a mixture of fear and awe. Through acts of kindness and cleverness, he gains the favour of the Emperor and becomes embroiled in the affairs and wars of this miniature realm, all the while yearning for freedom and the chance to return home.

In which we meet a wealthy yet fearsome gentleman distinguished by a blue beard, whose strange commandment to his new wife leads her to discover a dreadful secret within his grand estate. The tale unfolds with a mixture of curiosity and peril, inviting us to ponder the consequences of obedience and the power of kinship.

In which a kind and just King receives a visit from the Fairy Truth, who promises to aid his beloved son, Prince Darling, on the condition that the young prince strives to become good himself. The narrative unfolds the prince’s struggles with pride and temper, his misdeeds and their consequences, and the kindly lessons that lead him towards repentance and worthiness.

In which a devoted servant named Trusty John faithfully guards his young king’s interests, even as the king falls passionately in love with a mysterious princess depicted in a forbidden portrait. Through trials of loyalty and peril, Trusty John’s steadfast courage and sacrifice shape the course of their fortunes in a tale of trust and devotion.

In which two gentle sisters, Snow-white and Rose-red, live harmoniously with their mother in a humble cottage amid the woods, where they show kindness to a curious bear and a troublesome dwarf. Their tender hearts and brave actions bring unexpected encounters and change the course of their quiet lives in the forest.

In which a gentle princess, set to wed a distant prince, finds herself betrayed by a false waiting-maid during her journey, leading to a life of humble service as a goose-girl while her true identity remains hidden. Amidst silent suffering and secret conversations with her faithful horse’s severed head, the tale unfolds with quiet dignity and the watchful eyes of the old king.

In which a kind and courteous young girl receives an extraordinary gift from a fairy at a well, causing flowers and jewels to appear whenever she speaks, while her rude and ungracious sister is given a most unfortunate counter-magic. The tale unfolds amidst the trials of family favouritism and consequences of manners, setting the stage for encounters with nobility and the twists of fortune.

In which a poor woodcutter discovers the secret entrance to a treasure trove guarded by forty thieves and bravely takes some of the riches for his family, leading to dangerous consequences when his greedy brother ventures to claim the wealth for himself. Amidst cunning plots and perilous encounters, the loyal slave Morgiana uses her wit and courage to protect her master and bring justice, ensuring...

In which two clever children, Hansel and Grettel, face the dire hardship of famine and the cruel plan of a stepmother, yet find courage in one another as they navigate the dark and bewildering forest. Their adventure leads them to a curious house of sweets and the looming threat of a fearsome dwelling, where wit and bravery must be summoned to confront peril.

In which a clever and diminutive boy named Little Thumb overhears his parents’ distressing plan and uses his wit and resourcefulness to protect himself and his brothers from the perils of the forest and an ogre’s house. Through daring stratagems and magical boots, Little Thumb outsmarts cruel fate, making a prosperous return that transforms his family's fortunes.

In which a young king’s ambassador, the valiant Charming, embarks on a quest to win the hand of the radiant Princess Pretty Goldilocks, facing perils and fulfilling impossible tasks with the aid of grateful creatures he has helped along the way. This tale unfolds in a kingdom glittering with diamonds and dangers, where loyalty, courage, and cleverness entwine in the pursuit of love and honour.

In which a poor and friendless boy named Dick Whittington comes to London seeking work and shelter, facing hardship and unkindness but finding a small companion who brings unexpected fortune. Through patience and kindness, his fortunes change, leading him from humble service to honour and good deeds in the city.

In which a beloved young princess, suffering her father’s cruel command, flees into a strange forest and encounters a magical sheep who tells a tale of enchantment and loss, offering her refuge in a wondrous hidden realm. Together they navigate a world of spellbound companions and otherworldly marvels, while the princess seeks to find safety and solace amidst extraordinary adventures.

In which three maidens spin golden thread under the watchful care of a mysterious old woman, and the youngest, enchanted by a lost prince, unwittingly brings misfortune upon herself and her beloved. With the aid of enchanted birds and the counsel of a wise wizard, the prince embarks on a daring quest to break a cruel enchantment and restore joy and freedom to all.

In which a young prince, sent by his father to seek the most beautiful little dog, stumbles upon a wondrous castle ruled by a mysterious white cat who offers him shelter, splendid hospitality, and curious companionship. Through enchantments and adventures amidst marvels both magical and regal, he learns that the fairest gifts may be hidden in the most unexpected forms.

In which a princess, confined by her fearful father, bears a son destined to fulfil a dark prophecy, and that son embarks on a perilous quest to obtain the Terrible Head, aided by magical gifts and strange encounters. Along the way, the young hero overcomes dreadful foes and rescues a maiden in distress, leading to unexpected reunions and the shaping of destinies.

In which a poor but gentle girl named Felicia receives peculiar gifts from a noble lady and discovers that her seemingly humble life hides a royal secret guarded by magical transformations. Through kindness and care for her pot of pinks, she encounters enchantments and revelations that gently unfold the mysteries of her true identity and destiny.