The Project Gutenberg eBook of A Mother's List of Books for Children, compiled by Gertrude Weld Arnold

This little book, a revision of one privately printed a few years ago, has been prepared for home use, and for this reason the classification has been made according to the age, and not the school grade, of the child. But as children differ so greatly in capacity, it should be understood that in this respect the arrangement is only approximate. The endeavor has been made to choose those fairy tales which are most free from horrible happenings, and to omit all writings which tolerate unkindness to animals. Humorous books are designated by a star and the few sad ones by a circle.

The prices given are the same as those in the publishers' catalogues; booksellers' prices are often less.

My thanks are extended to those publishers who have time and again courteously provided the facilities for the examination of their publications.

Miss Annie Carroll Moore, of the New York Public Library, was kind enough to read for me the notes and comments. I wish most gratefully to acknowledge the generous assistance given me by Miss Hewins, of the Hartford Public Library, Miss Hunt, of the Brooklyn Public Library, and Miss Jordan, of the Boston Public Library, who examined the List, and suggested some changes and a few additions. Their approbation is elsewhere expressed.

A Mother's List (p. xi)

It is said, in that earliest collection of English proverbs which was made by John Heywood, more than three hundred years ago, that "Children must learn to creep before they can go." This little book for which I am asked to write a brief preface is, so far as I can find out, the first consistent effort yet made towards teaching children to read on John Heywood's principle. It is safe to say that it is destined to carry light and joy into multitudes of households. It is based upon methods such as I vaguely sighed after, nearly fifty years ago, when I was writing in the North American Review for January, 1866, a paper entitled Children's Books of the Year. The essay was written by request of Professor Charles Eliot Norton, then the editor of that periodical, and I can now see how immensely I should have been relieved by a book just like this Mother's List, a device such as nobody in that day had the wisdom and faithful industry to put together.

In glancing over the books discussed in that early paper of mine, it is curious to see how the very titles of some of the most prominent have now disappeared from sight. Where are the Little Prudy books which once headed the list? Where are the stories of Oliver Optic? Where is Jacob Abbott's John Gay; or Work for Boys? Even Paul and Virginia have vanished, taking with them the philosophic Rasselas and even the pretty story of Undine. Nothing of that list of thirty titles is now well remembered except Cooper's Leatherstocking and Jane Andrews's Seven Little Sisters Who Live on the Round Ball That Floats in the Air, a book which has been translated into the languages of remote nations of the globe, I myself having seen the Chinese and Japanese versions. Thus irregular is the award of time and we must accept it. Meanwhile this new book is organized on a better plan than any dreamed of at that former period, the books being arranged not merely by classes alone, but according to the age of the proposed readers and stretching in regular order from two years old until fourteen. The whole number of books being very large, there is no overdue limitation, and this forms the simple but magical method of reaching every variety of childish mind.

Thus excellent have been the changes: yet it is curious to observe on closer study that the two classes of books which represent the two extremes among the childish readers--Mother Hubbard and Shakespeare--may still be said to be the opposite poles between which the whole world of juvenile literature hangs suspended. A child needs to be supplied with a proper diet of fancy as well as of fact; and of fact as well as fancy. He is usually so constituted that if he were to find a fairy every morning in his bread and milk at breakfast, it would not very much surprise him; while yet his appetite for the substantial food remains the same. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland seem nowhere very strange to him, while Chaucer and Spenser need only to be simply told, while Dana's Two Years Before the Mast and Hughes's Tom Brown's School Days at Rugby hold their own as well as Jack and the Bean-Stalk. Grown up people have their prejudices, but children have few or none. A pound of feathers and a pound of lead will usually be found to weigh the same in their scales. Nay, we, their grandparents, know by experience that there may be early cadences in their ears which may last all their lives. For instance, Caroline Fry's Listener would now scarcely find a reader in any group of children, yet there is one passage in the book--one which forms the close of some beggar's story about "Never more beholding Margaret Somebody and her sunburnt child"--which would probably bring tears to the present writer's eyes today, although he has not seen the book since he was ten years of age.

It may be that every mature reader will miss from the list some book or books of that precious childish literature which once throve and flourished behind school desks. They were books founded partly on famous history, as that of Baron Trenck and his escapes from prison, Rinaldo Rinaldini, and The Three Spaniards. I am told that children do not now find them in a pedlar's pack as we once found them, accompanied by buns and peddled like them at recess time. Even if we should find them both in such a place, they might have no such flavor for us now. It is something if the flowers of American gossip are retained in similar stories, even if their atmosphere is retreating from all the hills. It is enough to know that we have for all our children the works of Louisa Alcott and Susan Coolidge; that they have Aldrich's Story of a Bad Boy and Mrs. Dodge's Hans Brinker and Miss Hale's Peterkin Papers and The William Henry Letters by Mrs. Diaz. We need not complain so long as our children can look inexhaustively across the ocean for Andrew Lang's latest fairy-book and Grimm's Household Stories as introduced to a new immortality by John Ruskin.

Appreciations (p. xvii)

I think your selections very carefully made and well adapted to children who have books at home and mothers who read them.... With many congratulations on the excellence of your book, both in form and substance, believe me yours sincerely,

You do not owe me any thanks for my little assistance, for you have given me quite as much as I have given you. It is more stimulating than you can believe to discuss the subject with one whose point of view is not that of the librarian. You must not call yourself an amateur, however, for you are an expert on children's books. I have gained a great many ideas from you, and have enjoyed comparing notes with you immensely.
Sincerely yours,

I am sending back your book with my notes and suggestions. It is an uncommonly good list, however, and there is little that I have wished to add or to take away.... Your list is so good that I know you must have spent a great deal of time and very definite thought over it. You have certainly covered the ground thoroughly.... I have enjoyed seeing your list and shall be greatly interested in seeing it in final form.
Sincerely yours,

Contents (p. xix)

A Mother's List Of Books For Children (p. 21)

Two Years of Age

Picture-books

These colored pictures of the different farm animals, mounted on boards, will please the littlest ones.

As children are favorably influenced by good pictures, it is a pity to give them any but the best, among which Walter Crane's certainly stand. Attention is drawn to the designs of the cover-pages (p. 22) of the books of this series, which are quite as attractive as the text illustrations.

The drawings for Mother Hubbard are among Mr. Crane's most successful efforts. Tiny folk will be entranced with the pictures of this marvellous white doggie.

"This wonderful Dog
Was Dame Hubbard's delight,
He could sing, he could dance,
He could read, he could write."

Let us travel to Piggy-land for a few moments, with the baby, and it will probably be the first of many trips, with these gay pictures to guide us.

Three Years of Age (p. 23)

Picture-books

Written and illustrated by an Englishwoman in India for her two small daughters, Little Black Sambo, with its absurd story, and funny crude pictures in color, will delight young children of all lands.

These delicately colored prints, with their atmosphere of English country life, well accord with the old cumulative verses which they accompany. (p. 24) Mr. Caldecott has charmingly illustrated this and the following picture-books. Some of the illustrations in each book are in color and some in black and white.

The drawings portray Mr. Frog, Mr. Rat, and the tragic ending to the festivities at Mousey's Hall.

Caldecott, Randolph (Illustrator). (p. 25)
Hey Diddle Diddle, and Baby Bunting. Warne. .25

The pictures to Hey Diddle Diddle are instinct with joyousness. Baby Bunting's father was a jovial huntsman of the old English type.

We are glad when the young squire, whose interest in the destination of the pretty maid the old song recounts, meets his proper deserts through the clever pencil of Mr. Caldecott.

These pictures suggest in color and design those found on playing cards, and they are very good indeed.

Wouldn't we all like to ride these sturdy nags through the lovely English country, even if we weren't to have the extra attraction of seeing a fine lady on a white horse?

Children will love to read of the stout farmer and his pretty daughter, who went trotting to market,

The little boy and girl king and queen are fascinating to real little boys and girls, and it is pleasant to be sure from the pictures that they liked the same things that children like to-day.

A Book of Old Rhymes with New Dresses by Walter Crane. The Music by the Earliest Masters.--Title-page.

This collection of English rhymes contains The Mulberry Bush, King Arthur, Jack and Jill, and many others equally familiar, with the accompanying music for each.

One of Mr. Crane's best. The duck captain and mouse sailors are utterly captivating.

"There were fifty little sailors
Skipping o'er the decks;
They were fifty little white mice,
With rings around their necks."

Four Years of Age (p. 28)

Picture-books

The A B C, accompanied by old English rhymes. There are three or four illustrations to a page.

Funny verses and even funnier animal pictures. A delightful book for old and young, because of the ability shown in the illustrations.

Poetry, Collections Of Poetry And Prose, And Stories Adapted From Great Authors (p. 29)

An exceptional collection of the ancient rhymes, songs, charms, and lullabies, accompanied by interesting pictures.

"In Mr. Halliwell's Collection, from which this volume is abridged, no manuscript authority goes further back than the reign of Henry VIII, though King Arthur and Robin Hood are mentioned.... Thus our old nursery rhymes are smooth stones from the book of time, worn round by constant friction of tongues long silent."

It is generally admitted that no one has comprehended and written from the child's point of view as did Stevenson. This volume should be among the first to be put into the hands of our little (p. 30) ones. Besides the black and white text illustrations there are twelve full-page pictures in color, all by Jessie Willcox Smith.

There are some who will prefer this small edition, beautifully illustrated in black and white.

Mr. Welsh has arranged this excellent collection of Mother Goose in accordance with the child's development, placing the rhymes in four divisions: Mother Play, Mother Stories, Child Play, and Child Stories.

Stories

The diverting history of four little rabbits: Flopsy, Mopsy, Cotton-tail, and naughty Peter who (p. 31) would go into Mr. McGregor's garden, where he had many exciting adventures. The tiny volumes of this series, with their fascinating colored illustrations, are very delightful.

Simple every-day happenings in the lives of little twin sisters, related with much of the repetition so pleasing to very young children. There are plenty of pictures.

This companion to The Arabella and Araminta Stories tells in the same pleasant reiterative style of the doings of the little girls' little twin brothers. The illustrations are in color.

Five Years of Age (p. 32)

Geography, Travel, And Description

Pleasant sketches of the children of different tribes, with many full-page color plates after paintings in water-color, and black and white illustrations. The big oblong pictures, with their primitive Indian coloring, are unusually attractive.

Mythology, Folk-lore, Legends, And Fairy Tales (p. 33)

Mr. Brooke has appropriately illustrated these old favorites: The Golden Goose, The Story of the Three Bears, The Story of the Three Little Pigs, and Tom Thumb. Of the four, the most popular is the tale of the adventures of little Tom, the favorite dwarf of the Court of King Arthur.

"Long time he lived in jollity,
Beloved of the Court,
And none like Tom was so esteemed
Amongst the better sort."

This edition is chosen because of Monsieur Boutet de Monvel's charming small illustrations in color. There are from two to eight pictures on (p. 34) each page, accompanying the text, which is in verse.

Poetry, Collections Of Poetry And Prose, And Stories Adapted From Great Authors

This large oblong book contains simple verses accompanying delightful full-page pictures in delicate colors somewhat after the French manner. It tells how Clean Peter brought tidiness to a little town.

"The children out in Grubbylea
Are all as clean as clean can be.
And Peter's living there to-day,
The children begged him so to stay."

If there ever was anyone who could cover little pills with a thick coating of sugar, it was Mr. Burgess when he wrote these clever verses and drew these ninety original and always funny pictures. Children delight in the Goops. It is almost worth while being one to have this volume of warning thrust into our hands.

"I never knew a Goop to help his mother,
I never knew a Goop to help his dad,
And they never do a thing for one another;
They are actually, absolutely bad!

"If you ask a Goop to go and post a letter,
Or to run upon an errand, how they act!
But somehow I imagine you are better,
And you try to go, and cry to go, in fact!"

A delightful companion volume of dreadful examples. With ninety-seven illustrations.

"You who are the oldest,
You who are the tallest,
Don't you think you ought to help<
The youngest and the smallest?

"You (p. 36) who are the strongest,
You who are the quickest,
Don't you think you ought to help
The weakest and the sickest?

"Never mind the trouble,
Help them all you can;
Be a little woman!
Be a little man!"

Mr. Headland, who is a professor in the Imperial University at Peking, tells us: "There is no language in the world, we venture to believe, which contains children's songs expressive of more keen and tender affection.... This fact, more than any other, has stimulated us in the preparation of these rhymes.... The illustrations have all been prepared by the translator specially for this work."

The Oriental atmosphere of the book and the many Chinese pictures lead our children of the Western world most delightfully into this old land.

"He climbed up the candlestick,
The little mousey brown,
To steal and eat tallow,
And he couldn't get down.
He called for his grandma,
But his grandma was in town,
So he doubled up into a wheel
And rolled himself down."

The nonsense classic, which should be among the first books secured for a child's library. This edition contains all the Nonsense Books, with all the original illustrations.

"'How pleasant to know Mr. Lear,'
Who has written such volumes of stuff!
Some think him ill-tempered and queer,
But a few think him pleasant enough."

"Mother Goose is the best primer. No matter if the rhymes be nonsense verses; many a poet might learn the lesson of good versification from them, and the child in repeating them is acquiring the accent of emphasis and of rhythmical form."--Preface.

These verses are written from the child's point of view, and are delightful alike to young and old. Miss Smith never did better work than in these beautiful sympathetic pictures and fascinating borders. The book is a large square one.

"If (p. 38) you could see our Mother play
On the floor,
You'd never think she was as old
As twenty-four.
On Sunday, when she goes to church,
It might be,
But Tuesdays she is just the age
Of Joe and me."

Children will like the funny, brightly colored pictures in this large oblong book, and will be fascinated by the Golliwogg. The verses are not equal to the illustrations.

Stories

An account of two little animal friends, a cat and dog, which will please small children who are outgrowing Mother Goose.

Very (p. 39) simple and delightful narratives of the life of a little boy on a farm seventy-five years ago. The atmosphere of the sketches is redolent of wholesome country life. They were used as bedtime stories at home for several years before publication.

The story of little Benjamin Bunny's visit to his cousin Peter Rabbit. A companion volume to The Tale of Peter Rabbit. These colored pictures of the small bunnies seem to the compiler the cunningest of this charming series.

Telling how bad little Nutkin was rude and saucy to Old Brown the owl, and what came of it. Very exciting, but not harrowing, even for tiny listeners. The pictures are in color.

Six Years of Age(p. 40)

Amusements And Handicraft

Suggestions for making charming dollies from fruits, vegetables, and flowers. The illustrations, many in color, are attractive and explanatory, but the text must be read to the children, as it is somewhat advanced for them.

Geography, Travel, And Description

These simple stories, written for the girls and boys of a generation ago, have taken their place among the charming and vivid descriptions of child-life in different lands.

Mythology, Folk-lore, Legends, And Fairy Tales

These richly colored Eastern pictures will give even little children a suggestion of the splendor of the Orient. Let us hope that they will never be too ready to answer the call of "New lamps for old ones."

It seems hardly right to omit this edition of so celebrated a tale pictured by so celebrated an artist, yet Mr. Crane's work breathes mystery and Oriental cunning from every page, and should be given to our youngsters only after examination, as a highly-strung child might be frightened by it. The picture of the resourceful Morgiana filling (p. 43) the oil-jars, while a dreadful robber with saucer-like eyes peers from one of them, is awful indeed.

Charming illustrations accompany this prose version of the ancient favorite which will long endure because of the great truth underlying the grotesque tale.

The story of the frog who was transformed into the handsome prince is as immortal as childhood. May we all remember the King's command to his daughter: "He who helped you in the time of your trouble must not now be despised."

Ogre-like indeed is the giant, and we breathe a sigh of relief when verses as well as pictures make it quite certain that Jack has escaped for the (p. 44) third time with his golden treasure. The beans of King Alfred's day seem to have closely resembled the wild oats of our own.

"So sweet a face, so fair--was never
beauty such as this;
He stands--he stoops to gaze--he kneels--
he wakes her with a kiss.
He leads her forth; the magic sleep
of all the Court is o'er--
They wake, they move, they talk, they laugh,
just as they did of yore
A hundred years ago."

Poetry, Collections Of Poetry And Prose, And Stories Adapted From Great Authors

Every child should know Mr. Cox's prankish, helpful Brownies. The verses are accompanied by many delightful pictures.

While these selections are intended for memorization by children, and are arranged by months for the school year, the collection is so good as to fill a useful place in the home library. At the end of the book are a few pages of wisely chosen little selections of poetry and prose, truly called Helps for the Day's Work.

The familiar songs, set to the music of the old tunes, and charmingly illustrated,--the costumes those of olden days. Some of the pictures are in color and some in black and white. The Monkey's Wedding, Bobby Shafto, and Old Dan Tucker, are included in the contents.

This carefully chosen collection--in which American poets are well represented--although made (p. 46) over thirty years ago, still holds its own as a standard. One of the divisions is devoted to hymns.

It is a good thing for children to learn from these quaint verses, with their charming illustrations, the sort of reading which pleased the small folks of long ago. The Taylors seldom struck so happy a vein as in the poem called The Field Daisy, which begins:

"I'm a pretty little thing, Always coming with the Spring; In the meadows green I'm found, Peeping just above the ground, And my stalk is covered flat With a white and yellow hat."

I prefer the little girls and boys ... that come as you call them, fair or dark, in green ribbons or blue. I like making cowslip fields grow and apple-trees bloom at a moment's notice. That is what it is, you see, to have gone through life with an enchanted land ever beside you.--Kate Greenaway to Ruskin.

Religion And Ethics

This careful chronological arrangement of Bible history, from the King James version, is very satisfactory. The book is a large one, with full-page illustrations from the Old Masters.

Stories

Few (p. 48) books axe remembered with greater affection by persons who were children in the middle of the last century than those written by Jacob Abbott.... The educational effect of Jacob Abbott's stories, both mental and moral, was very great.... The insistence, however, with which these virtues were proclaimed and emphasized, constitutes a weakness in the books as we view them now.--Preface.

The text of this famous tale, attributed to Oliver Goldsmith, is perhaps somewhat beyond the easy comprehension of children of six years, but they will enjoy the interesting pictures of Margery and her animal friends.

If a child could have but one story-book, a better choice could scarcely be made than this storehouse of fables, wonder tales, myths, songs, and ballads. Selections from Andersen, The Arabian Nights, Gulliver, and Munchausen, are included. There are many illustrations.

Small people like to hear about this father and mother robin and their four babies.

Mrs. Sarah Trimmer ... was a woman of more than the average education and accomplishment of her day, and enjoyed the friendship of Dr. Samuel Johnson, Sir Joshua Reynolds, and nearly all of the more celebrated English authors and painters of that time. She wrote a great many books.... They are now nearly all of them dead and forgotten; but one of them at least has lived, and has been the delight of thousands of children for over three-quarters of a century.--Introduction.

These fourteen little stories include some about children and some about animals. They are just the sort of narratives that small folks love, and are designed for retelling in the kindergarten and home. There are, in addition, three adaptations of well-known tales: Moufflou, Benjy in Beastland, and The Porcelain Stove, and a poem by Mrs. Wiggin.

Seven Years of Age (p. 50)

Amusements And Handicraft

This fully illustrated little volume gives clear directions for making simple toys and games, weaving baskets, working with beads, clay, et cetera. There is a good chapter on Gifts and How to Make Them.

Geography, Travel, And Description

A (p. 51) companion volume to The Seven Little Sisters, telling more of these happy children and their common bond of loving friendship.

Mythology, Folk-lore, Legends, And Fairy Tales

A series of delightful wonder stories, through which runs a vein of true wisdom. Miss Browne was blind from infancy, and her writings stand as the accomplishment of a brave and unselfish woman.

The subject-matter is of permanent value, culled from the folk-lore of the primitive races.--Preface.

We are told The Story of the Earth and the Sky, Why the Bear has a Short Tail, Why the Cat Always Falls upon Her Feet, and many other mythical reasons for natural wonders.

"I keep six honest serving-men;
(They taught me all I knew)
Their names are What and Where and When
And How and Where and Who.
I send them over land and sea,
I send them east and west;
But after they have worked for me,
I give them all a rest.
. . . . . . . . .
But different folk have different views;
I know a person small--
She keeps ten million serving-men,
Who get no rest at all!
She sends 'em abroad on her own affairs,
From the second she opens her eyes--
One million Hows, two million Wheres,
And seven million Whys!"

To this small person, Best Beloved, these twelve remarkable tales were related. We learn how the elephant got his trunk, how the first letter came to be written, and so forth. There are two editions of the book at the same price. Most children will prefer the one in large octavo.

Mothers may find the text somewhat advanced for children of seven years, but the full-page colored pictures are sure to be enjoyed. The volume is a large oblong one.

The next step is easy, to the short stories which have been told since the world was young; old fables in which the teachings of long experience are embodied, legends, fairy tales, which form the traditional common stock of the fancies and sentiment of the race.--Preface.

Famous tales, such as King Cophetua, The Wandering Jew, St. Christopher, and The Seven Sleepers of Ephesus, retold for the children.

The stories are true examples of Indian folk-lore and are very old.... Care has been taken to make the drawings archæologically correct for each tribe.--Foreword.

These traditions of various tribes were gathered from the best sources, and are here related in simple language. There is a supplement giving directions for making different articles: a tent, Indian dress, a bow and arrow, a stone axe, et cetera.

Poetry, Collections Of Poetry And Prose, And Stories Adapted From Great Authors(p. 54)

Mr. Blaisdell's attractive and amusing illustrations may well serve as a substitute for the ordinary comic pictures of the newspapers.

Although thirty-seven years have passed since Child-Life was compiled, it stands now, as then, far ahead of most collections of poetry for American children. Our own poets are well represented.

Religion And Ethics

These Bible tales are simply told, and follow closely the lines of the Old Testament, a considerable portion of the narratives being in the language of Scripture.

The stories are in the language of Scripture, altered only by omissions.... The Revised Version is used, with the frequent substitution of the marginal renderings.... In the introductions and notes I have carefully avoided any wording which might insinuate doctrinal instruction.--Preface.

The stories which make the text are in the language of Scripture, altered only by omissions.... The volume is arranged according to the natural divisions of Bible history.... Each period is represented by its most important stories; the purpose of the introduction and (p. 56) notes to each section is to weave all together by indicating briefly the bearing of each story on the general history.--Preface.

Science, Out-of-door Books, And Stories Of Animals

Stories (p. 57)

Simple descriptions of the building of the good ship Industry and her voyages to the far-away countries in the days long gone.

A translation from the Comtesse de Ségur's Memoirs of a Donkey. Neddy's account of his own life--and he was a good and faithful beastie who had many adventures--has been a favorite with children for years.

This charming story, written many years ago and now revised, tells of childish holidays spent in the Windemere region. Aunt Emma--a really, truly old lady, who owns a fascinating parrot--proves a sort of modern fairy-godmother to the little brother and sister. The atmosphere is not too pronouncedly English to interfere in the least with our children's enjoyment.

The experiences of a little New England girl of eighty years ago, telling of her return voyage from Scotland, and of her happy life in Boston and Springfield.

A pleasant sunny story of the simple happenings in the every-day life of a small girl.

Eight Years of Age (p. 59)

Amusements And Handicraft

Indoor and outdoor games, tricks and puzzles, the making of various articles, and the care of home pets, are some of the subjects treated in this volume of old and new pastimes.

Biography, History, And Government

In these truly remarkable pictures, instinct with spirit, dignity, and pathos, the peasant girl of (p. 60) Domrémy, martyr and patron saint, lives for children. The book is a large oblong one with full-page illustrations in color. While the text is somewhat advanced for children of eight years, the pictures really tell, the story.

A collection of many noted tales with which all of our children should be familiar. It includes Franklin's Whistle, Putnam and the Wolf, and Daniel Boone and his Grapevine Swing.

Mythology, Folk-lore, Legends, And Fairy Tales

There is no entirely satisfactory edition, for children, of this classic. The language of one edited by Jacobs seems to the compiler of this list somewhat unsuited to small people, and E. L. Smythe in her version substitutes an entirely different (p. 61) ending for that of the original. This very inexpensive little book has more than a hundred interesting small pictures, and children will love to read of bad Reynard, who is told about in diverting fashion.

It is difficult to say what are and what are not the Fables of Æsop.... In the struggle for existence among all these a certain number stand out as being the most effective and the most familiar. I have attempted to bring most of these into the following pages.--Preface.

These sweet tales of the saints of long ago and their little brothers the beasts have a gentle influence. The stories include that of Saint Bridget and the King's Wolf, Saint Fronto's Camels, Saint Rigobert's Dinner, and Saint Francis of Assisi.

First told in 1862 to the little Liddell girls. It was written out for Alice Liddell, was published, and the first copy given to her in 1865.

The illustrations are those which appeared in the original issue. Many artists have tried their hand in making pictures for "Alice," but none have succeeded in displacing those of John Tenniel.

Extract from the diary of C. L. Dodgson: July 4, 1862.--I made an expedition up the river to Godstow with the three Liddells; we had tea on the bank there, and did not reach Christ Church till half-past eight.... On which occasion I told them the fairy tale of Alice's Adventures Underground, which I undertook to write out for Alice.

"Alice! a childish story take,
And with a gentle hand
Lay it where Childhood's dreams are twined
In Memory's mystic band,
Like pilgrim's withered wreath of flowers
Plucked in a far-off land."

Those (p. 63) wishing to depart from John Tenniel's illustrations will find these pictures of Arthur Rackham very interesting. We are given delightful black and white work, though most of the full-page pictures are in color.

The sequel to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. The illustrations are the same as those that appeared in the original edition.

"To the Looking-Glass world it was Alice that said,
'I've a sceptre in hand, I've a crown on my head.
Let the Looking-Glass creatures, whatever they be,
Come and dine with the Red Queen, the White Queen, and me!'"

Of (p. 64) all the fairy stories of Italian literature this is the best known and the best loved.... The Florentines call it a literary jewel, and as such it should be known to all young readers.--Preface.

Though children can but dimly comprehend this charming allegory, they will recognize its truth. Pinocchio, the wayward and mischievous marionette, through his kindly actions grows to be a real little boy, with an unselfish loving heart. There are many attractive drawings.

Puss in Boots, Jack and the Bean-Stalk, Hop-o'-my-Thumb, and Cinderella, are the four famous fairy tales pictured by this famous illustrator.

The book is divided into three parts: Sketches of Various Tribes of North American Indians; Traditions and Myths; and Stories Recently Told of Hiawatha and Other Heroes. It is interesting and informing. There are three sketches by Angel de Cora, and many illustrations from photographs.

An (p. 65) acceptable selection in verse. There are illustrations in color as well as in black and white.

"These fables are much more than they appear--
The simplest animals are teachers here.
The bare dull moral weariness soon brings;
The story serves to give it life and wings."

This first volume of Andrew Lang's colored fairy books contains the better known tales from the folk-lore of many nations, and is, like the others of this series, attractively illustrated.

"Only I think, if I could be a little child again, I should exceedingly like a Brownie to play with me. Should not you?"

A famous Breton folk-tale which is made additionally attractive by the unusual quality of the illustrations.

I will not say that I have added nothing to the unconnected recitals of the Breton peasants, ... but I have added only what was necessary to link together the different events, and to supply passages that were entirely wanting.--Preface.

Mr. Paine writes in his delightful vein of Mr. Coon, Mr. Possum, and Mr. Crow. The book is always funny, and Mr. Condé's pictures are in their way as good as the text.

These (p. 67) eight wonder stories incidentally illustrate the every-day life of the people. The Japanese pictures are reproduced in color.

Poetry, Collections Of Poetry And Prose, And Stories Adapted From Great Authors

Mr. Lucas has shown his unvarying good taste in compiling this charming volume. Most of the poems are British, and among them are many delightful old songs and rhymes, verses of bygone days, ballads, and carols.

This (p. 68) admirable collection of poems, chosen from the standpoint of childish enjoyment, forms a lane of lovely verse leading into the great highway of literature. The poems are classified under different headings such as The Flower Folk, Other Little Children, Playtime, Story time, and Bedtime.

Religion And Ethics

Children will enjoy the fine illustrations in this soberly bound volume, whose brown coat is much the color of the one good Pilgrim wore on the long journey where he led the way for so many earnest souls.

No David can fall so low but that Christ's mercy and God's love can lift him from the depths of selfishness and sin back to the throne of manhood and the sceptre of influence.--Introductory Study.

Even (p. 69) young children can grow to love the simpler and more peaceful Psalms. The fine full-page pictures in this large well-printed volume add to its beauty and interest.

Science, Out-of-door Books, And Stories Of Animals

"Dr. Oliver Wendell Holmes, in Over the Teacups, says of the story Eyes and No Eyes: I have never seen anything of the kind half so good. I advise you, if you are a child anywhere under forty-five, and do not yet wear glasses, to send at once for Evenings at Home, and read that story. For myself, I am always grateful to the writer of it for calling my attention to common things."

Eyes and No Eyes, and Travellers' Wonders, from Aiken and Barbauld's Evenings at Home, (p. 70) The Three Giants, by Mrs. Marcet, and A Curious Instrument, by Jane Taylor, are the tales given. They all encourage a child's powers of observation.

While these elementary talks have been arranged to accompany the school year, they give so much information about fruits and seeds, young plants, roots and stems, flowers, et cetera, told in Mrs. Dana's clear, informing way, that we shall all want our children to know the book, and to learn the great lesson of how to see, which is taught them. The many illustrations are helpful.

The insects described are the more interesting common forms of Spring and early Summer. The plain little volume contains twenty short, fully illustrated chapters.

Stories

A (p. 71) vivid description of Norwegian farm and saeter life. Little Lisbeth loses her mother and goes to live with the good Kjersti, the mistress of Hoel Farm, helping to take care of the cattle.

Hans Aanrud's short stories are considered by his own countrymen as belonging to the most original and artistically finished life pictures that have been produced by the younger literati of Norway.--Preface.

Written by an eminent German philosopher, and translated by Mrs. Sarah Austin for her own daughter, this beautiful tale, with its exquisite language, leads a child into the land of truth and beauty.

An account of Lieutenant Peary's little daughter, who was born amid the ice and snow of the Polar regions. The book is well illustrated from photographs.

Three (p. 72) phases of Indian life in California, given in the form of a story. The ways and customs of the red man are described as they existed during the early days of this boy, before the coming of the whites. Later Docas had his home at the Mission in the days of Father Junipero Serra, and last of all, an old old man, dwelt, with his children and grandchildren, on a ranch.

Nine Years of Age (p. 73)

Amusements And Handicraft

This book of suggestions for children's games and employments will be a help to the busy mother when her own supply of indoor and outdoor amusements is exhausted. There are directions for five hundred plays and pastimes, including gardening, candy-making, and writing, guessing, and acting, games.

Biography, History, And Government

This account of the boyhood of ten lads illustrates different periods and civilizations from Aryan days to the present time.

The narrative of the first two years of the Pilgrims at Plymouth, based largely on Governor Bradford's history. Maps and illustrations add to the book's interest.

I have given as much of Bradford's own story as possible in the following pages, interwoven with the relations of Mount and Winslow, to which Bradford himself makes frequent reference.--Preface.

The history of our country naturally divides itself into three portions. First, there is the period of Discovery and Exploration.... It is with this romantic time that the present volume deals.... The latest authorities have been made tributary to this volume, and the author has spared no pains to have it correct in every statement of facts, and in the difficult matter of dates.--Preface.

An (p. 75) elementary account of Hellas from legendary times to its becoming a Roman province. Many well-known mythical and historic tales are included. There are maps and illustrations.

This companion to The Story of the Greeks gives, in like manner, a simple relation of Roman history from mythical days to the fall of the Empire. It contains maps and illustrations.

Children will find this small book interesting. It tells of the lives of some of the noted painters of different lands and periods; among them Raphael, Rembrandt, Reynolds, and Millet. The illustrations are from famous paintings.

A companion to Stories of Great Artists, which briefly recounts the careers of famous musicians; among them Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Schumann, and Wagner. Many of the illustrations are from paintings.

The (p. 76) brief pathetic life of Powhatan's daughter is well portrayed. This large oblong volume contains full-page pictures in color.

These short sketches of colonial life picture the first New England Christmas and a Puritan Sabbath. They also tell of the use of the hornbook and the sun-dial, describe the making of soap and candles, and so forth.

Although we learn about our country from prehistoric days to the time of Washington, most of the book is devoted to the early exploration and settlement of North and South America. The second chapter contains an account of the Mound-builders.

Geography, Travel, And Description

Our young people will enjoy hearing of the amusements and festivals of these far-away boys and girls. The volume contains, in addition, child stories, and an article entitled The Games and Sports of Japanese Children, by W.E. Griffis.

Mythology, Folk-lore, Legends, And Fairy Tales

"The (p. 78) author, a distinguished Norwegian student of folk-lore and zoölogy, made long journeys on foot for scientific purposes, in the course of which he collected, among others, these popular stories and legends. Mr. Braekstad in his translation endeavors to retain the atmosphere of the original."

It will be seen that the Mythology adopted throughout is strictly of the old-fashioned kind which goes to Ovid as its leading authority, and ignores the difference between the gods of Greece and the gods of Rome.--Preface.

This small volume is included because it gives quite fully the Labors of Hercules.

Hindoo fairy legends of Southern India, recorded by Miss Frere in 1865-1866, as they were related to her by her Indian ayah during a tour through the Southern Mahratta country, in the Bombay Presidency, of which Sir Bartle Frere, her father, was then Governor.

Barring a few horrible incidents, this is an excellent selection of these famous stories. Mr. Rackham's illustrations help to place the edition above many others.

No epoch of time can claim a copyright in these immortal fables. They seem never to have been made; and certainly, so long as man exists, they can never perish.--Preface.

Hawthorne wrote comparatively little for children. Let us be thankful that he did retell with such charm these Greek myths. The full-page pictures in color are worthy of the stories, which comprise The Gorgon's Head, The Golden Touch, The Paradise of Children, The Three Golden Apples, The Miraculous Pitcher, and The Chimæra.

For (p. 80) centuries the songs of Homer ... have delighted the children, young and old, of many lands. But part of our own heritage, and nearer to us in race and time, are these stories of the Danish Beowulf and the Swedish Fridthjof.--Preface.

These simple versions of saga and epic recount for our children the bravery and endurance of a ruder age.

Children will love to dwell for a time in Russia with the boy who was always saying "Tell me a story, little grandmamma." The character of the grandmother is drawn in a measure from that of Dr. Kraus's peasant mother, who was, though illiterate, intelligent and learned in the wonder-lore of her people.

I have endeavored to include in this volume the best and most typical stories told by the chief masters of the Celtic folk-tale, Campbell, Kennedy, Hyde, and Curtin, and to these I have added the best tales scattered (p. 81) elsewhere.... In making my selection, and in all doubtful points of treatment, I have had resource to the wide knowledge of my friend Mr. Alfred Nutt in all branches of Celtic folk-lore.... With him by my side I could venture into regions where the non-Celt wanders at his own risk.--Preface.

From all these sources--from the Jatakas, from the Bidpai, and from the more recent collections--I have selected those stories which throw most light on the origin of fable and folk-tales, and at the same time are most likely to attract English children.--Preface.

This is a rather unattractive little volume, but the myths are so well told that we feel while reading them that real events of heroic days are being recounted.

In these Greek tales Kingsley is at his best for children. He writes without digression, the language is clear and dignified, and we feel the spirit of the bygone age of which the story tells. Many of the illustrations are in color.

This original and charming story is in some parts rather over the heads of children, and a few of the incidents seem gruesome to the compiler. For this reason it is better to read the book to the child, so that these portions may be omitted.

Selma Lagerlöf, the foremost writer of Swedish fiction, in response to a commission to prepare a reader for the public schools, devoted three years to nature study, and to seeking out hitherto unpublished folk-lore and legends of the different provinces. The result, of which we have as yet only the first volume, is this remarkable book. Bad cruel Nils is transformed into an elf, and on the back of a goosey-gander, Thumbietot, as he is now called, visits distant regions, and learns kindness to his animal brothers.

In this volume, second in order of publication, less familiar fairy stories are given, including The Twelve Dancing Princesses, Kari Woodengown, and Mother Holle.

This beautiful wonder story, because of its pathos, should perhaps be withheld from a very sensitive child.

These naturally serve as the gate of entrance into the wide open fields of literature, especially into those of poetry. Poetry is one of the most efficient means of education of the moral sentiment, as well as of the intelligence. It is the source of the best culture.--Preface.

The altogether charmingly impossible story of the travels of a little boy and a bear who played the violin.

"And they travelled on forever and they'll never, never sever, Bosephus and the fiddle and the old black bear."

Any undertaking of Mr. Pyle's is a guarantee of distinction in material, style, and production, and these four and twenty fairy tales, one for each hour of the day, are no exception. The illustrations are among the author's best, and Miss Katharine Pyle supplies charming little verses for the different hours.

The tales contained in this volume have been the delight of many generations of children, and can, in fact, claim a very distant origin, though they were retold in their present form as late as the age of Louis XIV. They are generally supposed to have come from the East, for they are to be found in varied forms in all the countries of Europe that sent forth Crusaders.... As children always like stories to be retold in the same words as far as possible, these tales have not been rewritten (except in two cases); the original translations in their quaint simplicity have been collected, and merely corrected so far as to meet the modern ideas of the kind of tale to be given to children; the old ones being occasionally a little coarse.--Preface.

Madame D'Aulnoy, Charles Perrault, and La Princess de Beaumont, are represented in this collection, taken, with few exceptions, from French sources.

Under an open sky, nestling close to the earth, the old Dakota story-tellers have told me these legends.--Preface.

Poetry, Collections Of Poetry And Prose, And Stories Adapted From Great Authors

"Ye who love a nation's legends,
Love the ballads of a people
That like voices from afar off
Call to us to pause and listen,
. . . . . . . .
"Listen to this Indian Legend,
To this Song of Hiawatha!"

Religion And Ethics

The life of Christ told with simplicity and breadth, making real to children the events of the Gospel story. Tested by ten years' home use before publication. The biblical text is not adhered to strictly.

Science, Out-of-door Books, And Stories Of Animals

In the present work the writer has attempted to furnish in simple language, aided by pictorial illustrations when thought necessary, a knowledge of things in Nature, Science, and the Arts, which are apt to awaken a child's curiosity.--Preface.

Though Mrs. Miller is herself an expert, she tells us that she has been careful to have the latest and the best authorities for the statements made, and presents a list of them. The author, while never a sentimentalist, constantly teaches kindness to the birds. There are both colored and plain plates.

Miss Apis Mellifica, with her wonderful eyes, her queer tongue, her useful furry legs, and her marvellous (p. 88) ways, is described for us in delightfully simple fashion by Miss Morley, who has also made many instructive and interesting small illustrations. The last chapter is on Bombus, the Bumblebee.

"This book, like its predecessor, aims to give to young pupils an accurate and readable account of the life histories of some common insects. It is designed for use during the autumn months."

Primarily intended to inculcate kindness to dogs, and other animals. It is pleasant to know that the tale has secured an immense popularity.

The horse gives his own account of his life with good and bad masters; the purpose of the book being to instil care and consideration for animals. Many copies have been distributed among draymen and cabmen. Children find the story very interesting.

Stories (p. 89)

Mrs. Burnett's well-known story of the little American boy who in the course of events becomes heir to an English earldom is included in this list because of the beautiful and kindly spirit shown by the child to those about him.

Professor Drummond wrote these two tales--his first attempt at fiction--while acting as temporary editor of a children's magazine. The first, that of Tricky, was so liked by children all over the world that the second, Gum, was written soon after. Mr. Wain's pictures are very good.

Selections from the writings of Maria Edgeworth, Mary Lamb, Peter Parley, and others.

"The children come, the children go;
To-day grows quickly yesterday;
And we, who quiz quaint fashions so,
We soon shall seem as quaint as they."

The children of those days--our great-great-grandfathers--expected didacticism. It was part of the game.... In the present collection there is, I think, no example either of condescension or showing-off--the two principal faults of books for children. All the authors seem to me to be simple and single-minded: they wished above all to be interesting.--Introduction.

Written in accordance with modern views of science, and calculated to give children a good idea of prehistoric man and his ways. What is more, the story is sufficiently interesting to attract them.--The Athenæum.

Little (p. 91) freckled Toby runs away and joins a circus, where he makes a friend of Mr. Stubbs, an old monkey. Before long, however, he is glad to be welcomed home again by old Uncle Daniel. The tawdry life of the ring is well drawn.

Louise de la Ramé wrote these stories in a way that charms alike grown people and children. Little August and his beloved Hirschvogel the great Nürnberg stove, Florentine Lolo and his faithful Moufflou, Raphael the child of old Urbino, and others, are vividly pictured.

Ten Years of Age (p. 92)

Amusements And Handicraft

"But Margaret said, 'I don't want to wait till I'm big; I want to cook now; and I don't want to do cooking-school cooking, but little girl cooking, all by myself.'"

So they gave her this simple cook-book on her birthday, and she learned to make all the different dishes before another birthday came.

Margaret loved housekeeping, and the big people taught her on Saturday mornings how to take care of the house and its contents, how to launder, to market, et cetera. The directions, given in story form, are very clear and simple, and girls greatly enjoy the book. In fact, work becomes as joyful as play.

The Boy Craftsman has been undertaken with a view of helping boys with their problems of earning money, as well as furnishing recreative and entertaining work, and to this end the first portion has been devoted to suggestions for the carrying on of a number of small business enterprises, and the second and third parts to outdoor and indoor pastimes for all seasons of the year.--Preface.

The handling and care of tools, simple carpentry, printing, photography, the making of an outdoor gymnasium and a miniature theatre, are among the topics included. There are many illustrations.

Biography, History, And Government

"Here may we sit and converse hold
With those whose names in ages old
Were in the book of fame enrolled."

Columbus ... left a record of persistence in spite of discouragement and of triumph over all obstacles, that has been the inspiration and guide for Americans ever since his day.--Preface.

The life of the great admiral is described in a simple and interesting manner. Many pictures are given.

One of the best of modern Americans, James Russell Lowell, who was born on the same day of the month as Washington, February twenty-second, wrote, shortly before his death, to a school-girl whose class proposed noticing his own birthday: "Whatever else you do on the twenty-second of February, recollect, first of all, that on that day a really great man was born, and do not fail to warm your hearts with the memory of his service, and to brace your minds with the contemplation of his character. The rest of us must wait uncovered till he be served."

This is a good text for those boys and girls who may be led to read this true story of George Washington.--Preface.

The French discovery and settlement of this country to the time of Pontiac, and the coming of the English. A vivid, carefully drawn picture of those adventurous days. Marquette, Joliet, La Salle, and Tonty, are sketched for us.

A companion to The Young Folks' Cyclopædia of Common Things, which tells, in the same simple way, of well-known persons and places. It is, as is the former, most satisfactory. There are many illustrations.

This volume, like The Discovery and Exploration of America, of which it is a continuation, is a study of the best authorities. It is intended to present to young readers the salient points in the story of the colonization of the United States.--Preface.

By this series of talks about the make-up and workings of different civic departments and institutions Miss Hill arouses the attention and holds the interest of our children. The police, fire, and street departments, are described, and among other subjects, juvenile courts, the school system, and the village improvement association, are pleasantly discussed.

A good account of the exploring expeditions of Coronado, Lewis and Clark, Fremont, Powell, Parkman, and others. The book contains maps and illustrations.

The child is to put this volume, not at the lesson-book end of the shelf, but with Robinson Crusoe and the like. So the preface suggests, and rightly. It is eminently (p. 96) readable, a success, we should say, in what looks much easier than it is, telling a story in simple words.--The Spectator.

A history of the Mother Country, from earliest legendary times delightfully related. The thirty full-page illustrations in color add to its attraction.

The Swiss national hero is told of in a series of thrilling narratives, teaching children what brave men will dare and do for freedom. There are eight pictures in color.

Geography, Travel, And Description

The author relates in his informal way, among many other experiences, his encounters with the little people of Herodotus; their tiny houses, curious customs, and uncommon shyness. This trip to Africa was begun in 1863.

The hunting of hippopotami and gorillas is most interestingly narrated by the great explorer who also tells about the method employed in catching elephants, about snake-charming, and so forth.

These small books--the Peeps at Many Lands Series--"are intended to give children a glimpse at the scenes, people, and characteristics, of foreign countries.... A strong feature is made of the work and play of children in the land described." The illustrations, though as a rule somewhat highly colored, are very attractive. There are many titles in the series, but only the most important are included in this list. Besides descriptions of beautiful lakes and great mountains, this volume includes tales of the struggle for Swiss freedom, accounts of mountain-climbing, sports, and chamois-hunting. There are twelve colored plates, among which are a number of fine snow scenes.

Frederick Schwatka says: To describe these Arctic babies is the main object of this book--to (p. 98) tell the boys and girls what kind of toys and pleasures and picnics and all sorts of fun may be had where you would hardly think any could be had at all; also, some of the discomforts of living in this most uncomfortable country.

Experiences in the lives of five boys, whose respective homes were Sweden, Egypt, Iceland, Germany, and Russia.

The purpose of the author, of course, was to give a glimpse of the habits and customs of these countries.

Mythology, Folk-lore, Legends, And Fairy Tales

Mrs. Lucas is well fitted for her office of translator, although there are a number of tales in this selection which, in the opinion of the compiler of this List, might well have been omitted because of their horrible character. The pictures are so remarkable that in them the stories live again.

Mr. Baldwin's object, as he tells us, has been to pave the way to the enjoyable reading of Homer. He has depicted for us the boyhood and youth of Odysseus, taking the various legends relating to the causes of the Trojan War, and weaving them into one continuous narrative, ending where Homer begins.

A little volume intended for the use of children who may be taken to hear the operas of Richard Wagner. It gives briefly, in an interesting manner, the great myth upon which Wagner based his famous production, the Ring of the Nibelungs, following the lines of the operas. The musical motifs accompany the text.

This companion to The Story of the Rhinegold relates the legends of the Flying Dutchman, Tannhäuser, Lohengrin, Tristan and Isolde, and the Mastersingers of Nuremberg. The musical motifs accompany the text.

In Europe they were not known till 1704, when a learned Frenchman, Antoine Galland, who had travelled widely in the East, put them skillfully, if not too accurately, into the language of his own people.... Within a comparatively few years, an ancient manuscript in the Louvre at Paris has been found to remove from Galland the long-standing reproach that he introduced into his Arabian Nights stories which really did not belong to the collection, but were taken from other Eastern sources.... It will not be easy to change the form of the names which, through Galland's agency, have become classic words.--Introduction to Stories from the Arabian Nights.

Mr. Dixon presents these famous Oriental stories most acceptably, and Mr. Batten's remarkable illustrations are all that can be desired. His genii are genii indeed, and his fairy princesses creatures of grace and beauty.

I have endeavored to give to the whole a genuine flavor of the old plantation. Each legend has its variants, but in every instance I have retained that particular version which seemed to me to be the most characteristic, and have given it without embellishment and without exaggeration.--Introduction.

All children should have the opportunity to know and to love Uncle Remus, as they cannot fail to do if they are familiar with his narratives. The Negro dialect often makes it desirable to have these read aloud.

In this second Wonder Book Hawthorne again tells us in simple language of great heroes of Greek mythical days. The Minotaur, the Pygmies, The Dragon's Teeth, Circe's Palace, The Pomegranate Seeds, and The Golden Fleece, comprise the contents of the volume.

In fine and picturesque language, retained from the Indian original, Geraldine Hodgson has given us this adaptation from the Ramayana. We learn, with delight, to know the monkey hosts: "Hanuman, that strong, forgiving, wise, brave, (p. 102) and humble Ape," and "Sugriva, that best of Monkeys."

Telling of Mowgli, the child of the jungle, and his brethren, the wild creatures of the forest; together with other marvellous animal stories.

This, the third of the colored fairy books, contains, as do the others, tales from many sources, among them The Half-Chick, The Magic Swan, and King Kojata.

Mr. Pyle has related these great legends right worthily. The illustrations are full of interest, and while the text is suited to a narrative of this early period, it is well within childish comprehension.

There have been written in our English language a few tales bearing a rich moral lesson that are an unfailing source of delight, alike to childhood and to youth, and that are at the same time not without interest to the adult. The King of the Golden River is one of these.... Its lessons are not obtruded; the reader is really not explicitly conscious of them at all.--Introduction.

Mr. Stockton had a wise, humorous style of his own. In this small volume, which contains some of his best writing for children, will be found Old Pipes and the Dryad, The Bee-Man of Orn, and The Clocks of Rondaine.

From centuries and peoples almost as different from those we know as the North and the South Poles are far apart, through the overthrows of dynasties and the movements of whole races of men, by the work of Arabian scholars when printing was unknown, and by the labors of Europeans almost in our own day, these stories have survived to transport us into a world of splendor and magic.--Introduction.

A carefully edited selection of thirteen of these famous tales, with which, of course, every child should be familiar.

This fairy extravaganza--Thackeray's only production for children--was written for a little sick girl.

Poetry, Collections Of Poetry And Prose, And Stories Adapted From Great Authors

Poems illustrative of the history and national spirit of England, Scotland, Ireland, and America.--Title-Page.

The (p. 105) compilers have given us a volume of verse chosen from that which is "most simple, most hearty, most truly characteristic of the people, their tradition, history, and spirit; ... poetry sometimes by, and sometimes not, but always for, the people; poems that were household words with our fathers and mothers, and lay close to the heart because of the heart."

Mrs. Haweis begins with an account of Chaucer's life and the London of his day. Portions of a number of the Tales follow, the original and the modern text being given in parallel columns, with prose abridgments connecting the selections. There are eight full-page colored pictures and a number of small woodcuts. Though possibly only an exceptional child will enjoy the book, it helps to bring the youthful reader closer to the time of Chaucer than any other version for children.

"Some travellers are apt to advance more than is strictly true; if any of the company entertain a doubt of my veracity, I shall only say to such, I pity their want of faith."

Raspé (p. 106) was scholar enough to mix up with the real Munchausen's amusing burlesques, exaggerations and fancies which are centuries older, and which can be cited now from the crabbed language of the Middle Ages.--Note.

His voyage to Lilliput, his stay with the little people, and his adventures later among the giants of Brobdingnag, are classic. Written as a political satire, the narrative has served a gentler purpose than its original one. The littleness of the Lilliputians and the greatness of the giants appeal strongly to children.

Science, Out-of-door Books, And Stories Of Animals

The (p. 107) old gardener teaches Mary how to prepare and tend her garden through the year. Much practical information is given in a charming way with a thread of story.

A clear account of the geological story, interestingly told. Many of the illustrations are taken from Lyell, and Winchell.

Children, while they do not like spiders, are invariably curious about them. This description of various species, with its good illustrations, will turn childish curiosity into genuine interest.

In moderate compass this book gives us much information about the living creatures of the world. Mr. Wood is an authority. There are twelve colored and over three hundred black-and-white illustrations.

Although as a rule story-telling and science are best kept separate, their combination in this pleasant tale, written in the interest of bird-protection, can have only our hearty commendation. It arouses the interest of children not only by its style, but because there is such a fund of information about our birds. The volume contains twelve colored plates and thirty-six full-page illustrations in half-tone.

Stories

The story tells how little Ben and good Sancho, his wonderful trained poodle, ran away from the circus, and found refuge and happiness with Bab and Betty in the old home under the lilacs.

This account of the capture of Juan and Juanita by Comanches is founded on fact. A number of years ago two Mexican children were discovered by Indians on the other side of the Rio Grande, and carried away to the Llanos Estacados. After four years of captivity they made their escape, walking back three hundred miles through a wild country, and finally reaching their mother. The tale gives an interesting picture of hacienda life.

The author originally related these narratives of life and sport in the Norseland to his own children.

"For my Vikings love song and saga,
Like their conquering fathers of old;
And these are some of the stories
To the three little tyrants I told."

An altogether charming description of a little girl's happy year spent with her German uncle in the old family castle. Peep-in-the-World's friendship with Knut the dwarf, who lives in the forest surrounded by the animals he loves and cares for, and the founding of an Order of Knights by the children, are sweet and natural incidents.

Written by William Henry during the two years he was away at school. One of the best books for boys, and they love it. It has high standards, abounds in homely common-sense, and is very funny.

Austin Dobson, in his introduction, gives us a sketch of Maria Edgeworth's upbringing and of the conditions which helped to produce the famous Parent's Assistant, from which twelve of the sixteen stories are here reprinted, accompanied by Mr. Thomson's delightful pictures.

"Fairies were not much in her line," says Mrs. Richmond Ritchie, Thackeray's daughter, "but philanthropic manufacturers, (p. 111) liberal noblemen, and benevolent ladies in travelling carriages, do as well and appear in the nick of time to distribute rewards or to point a moral."--Introduction.

"Mr. Peterkin, Agamemnon, and Solomon John, took the postal card to the post-office early one morning.... It must have been read along its way: for by each mail came piles of postals and letters from town after town, in answer to the question, and all in the same tone: 'Yes, yes; publish the adventures of the Peterkin family.'"

The trials and troubles of the Peterkins and the helpful suggestions of the resourceful lady from Philadelphia will long be a source of amusement to folks both old and young.

This (p. 112) mysterious tale of Ji-shib the Chippewa, and A-mi-kons the little beaver, his totem, follows Indian life from birth to early manhood. Dr. Jenks has prepared many small accompanying sketches.

Narratives of the early days of some little school-girls of long ago, related by themselves. Charmingly illustrated in color; the costumes those of the period.

Childhood days on a farm near old Deerfield, fifty or sixty years ago. The story has a fresh, wholesome atmosphere, and children of to-day love the simple happenings.

A (p. 113) continuation of the farm life of the children we learned to know in Jolly Good Times, telling of school-days and winter fun.

This delightful book is generally accepted as giving the best picture of child-life in the Swiss Alps.

The exploit by which a young Nez Percé won his name, and his further prowess, are related. The adventures of a mining party and the pursuit of rebellious Apaches by a company of United States cavalry are just what boys will enjoy reading about.

The experiences of this shipwrecked family are thus happily characterized by the Spectator: They did sail in the tubs, and train zebras and ostriches for riding, and grow apples and pines in the same garden; and why shouldn't they?

An account of the boyhood days of Richard the Fearless, Duke of Normandy, vassal of Louis IV, one of the last of the degenerate line of Charlemagne.

Eleven Years of Age (p. 114)

Amusements And Handicraft

This very comprehensive volume gives information about tools, different kinds of woods, and the fitting up of workshops; with full directions for the building of simple houses, boats, toboggans, and numerous small articles. There are many working diagrams.

Biography, History, And Government

Issued under the auspices of the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, this (p. 115) volume gives an account of the visit of a party of young people to Washington, where they learned much of interest regarding our government and the workings of its different departments. There are many illustrations.

This companion to The Century Book for Young Americans, issued under the auspices of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution, gives a description of the pilgrimage of the same young people to historic homes. It is fully illustrated.

As one who had a hand in shaping the destinies and securing the independence of his native land, by word (p. 116) and pen, by brain and hand, it is most fitting that the story of his life should be retold for young Americans.--Preface.

Being ignorant is not so much a shame as being unwilling to learn.--Poor Richard's Almanac.

The whole life of Lafayette was a long struggle for constitutional liberty, the freedom he had seen America secure and which he so ardently desired for France.--Preface.

Mr. Brooks's account emphasizes the great Frenchman's disinterested services to our country at a time of dire need. Many illustrations add to the book's value.

"And as those of us who are men and women look with reverent and smiling interest upon the outgrown garments, and books, and toys, of our childhood, even so I think must Christendom ever look upon these outgrown beliefs of an earlier day. There is not one of the stories we can yet afford to lose. For we find, as we arrange the allegory and romance, and the real, historic bits, in a way to suit our wiser time, that the lessons they hold are as true for us as they were for the childlike people who cherished them a thousand years ago."

The lives and legends of Saint George, Saint Denis, Saint Nicholas, Saint Elizabeth, and others less well known in the great brotherhood of (p. 117) all lands, are told with dignity and simplicity. The illustrations are taken from old pictures.

In this volume an attempt has been made to give a concise, plain, and authentic narrative of the principal battles of the Revolution as witnessed by those who took part in them.--Preface.

Mr. Coffin's writings are full of reliable historical information, interestingly told. This, the first of a series, takes us from the discovery of San Salvador to the surrender of Montreal to General Amherst, in 1760. There are maps and many illustrations.

There is no reason why history should not be made delightful, though it so often fails in this respect. This little book of Mrs. Mandell Creighton's, with its good maps, and illustrations, many of them from old prints, is truly interesting to children.

The (p. 118) term Making of the American Nation, as used in the title of the present volume, is intended to mean the process by which the loosely connected American communities outgrew their colonial condition of social and political life, and developed into a nation.--Preface.

This is the first of four readers which portray the life and conditions of our country at different periods by means of extracts from contemporary sources, freely edited. Many illustrations are given.

The stories are the same in substance as when they were first told, two and three centuries ago; but their garb has been changed without adding a detail or altering a statement of fact.--Introduction.

In writing this ponderous tome, the author's desire has been to describe the eminent characters and remarkable events of our annals in such a form and style that the YOUNG may make acquaintance with them of their own accord. For this purpose, while ostensibly relating the adventures of a chair, he has endeavored to keep a distinct and unbroken thread of authentic history.... The author, it is true, has sometimes assumed the license of filling up the outline of history with details for which he has none but imaginative authority, but which, he hopes, do not violate nor give a false coloring to the truth.--Preface.

Grandfather's (p. 119) Chair records, in narrative form, New England chronicles from 1620 to the War for Independence. Biographical Stories are tales of West, Newton, Johnson, Cromwell, Franklin, and Queen Christina, told to a little boy with defective sight. The book has a biographical sketch, notes, and illustrations.

Here the history of New York City is told as a story, in few words. The effort has been to make it accurate and interesting. The illustrations are largely from old prints and wood engravings. Few dates are used. Instead, a Table of Events has been added which can readily be referred to. The Index to Chapters also gives the years in which the story of each chapter occurs.--Preface.

An interesting account of the methods used in extinguishing fires and the thrilling experiences of the firemen in the city of New York, which will enthrall boys.

This book has been written in the belief that a primary history of the United States should be short, as interesting as possible, and well illustrated.... The illustrations are historically authentic.--Preface.

The deeds of great men belonging to different nomadic peoples are recounted. We are told about Abraham, Moses, Prince Siddartha, Clovis, Attila, Godwin, and Knut.

As stated in the preface, this narrative of the life of the famous king is the result of a thoughtful study of his character and an earnest effort to be as accurate as the scantiness of material and the thousand years' interval would permit.

Of all the sovereigns that have worn the crown of England, Queen Elizabeth is the most puzzling, the most fascinating, the most blindly praised, and the most unjustly blamed.... At a distance of three hundred years it is not easy to balance these claims to censure and to admiration, but at least no one should forget that the little white hand of which she was so vain guided the ship of state with most consummate skill in its perilous passage through the troubled waters of the latter half of the sixteenth century.--Preface.

The story of William the Conqueror is the story of the man who for more than a quarter of a century was the most prominent personage of Western Europe.... Whatever in the character of the Conqueror the twentieth century may find worthy of blame or of praise, no student of his life will deny that his faults were those of his time, that his virtues were his own.--Preface.

Geography, Travel, And Description

London Town is described, there are two chapters on Father Thames, and we are led through old Wessex, Warwickshire, the Broads and Fen-country, and the beautiful Lakeland. Twelve plates in color are given.

This account of peasant homes and the life of the people throughout the year makes many allusions in the Gospel story easily understood. There (p. 122) are chapters on Jerusalem and Bethlehem, and one entitled From Nazareth to Galilee. The volume contains twelve colored plates.

Although from its nature and size this book can give only a glimpse of each country, yet it does seem to convey, in moderate compass, a general view of the world, and quite a vivid impression of the different lands is absorbed from the colored pictures, which children always enjoy. The plates are thirty-seven in number.

A pleasant account of the manners and customs, the costumes and feast-days, of Water land. The twelve colored plates add to the book's attraction.

Charming accounts of the legends, stories, and customs, of the Flowery Kingdom, related by a little Japanese boy to his child friends in America.

This small volume contains a series of brief articles, by different persons, on Mexico and South (p. 123) America. Some of the subjects touched on are A Venezuelan Railway, The Land of the Llama, and The Argentine Capital.

This companion volume to Strange Lands Near Home tells us of life in China, Japan, Korea, Borneo, and other Eastern countries. There is an interesting chapter on Housekeeping in East India, by Sara Jeannette Duncan.

Hygiene

A clear statement of facts concerning the body and the attention that should be given to it. There are chapters on fresh air, eyesight, the ear, the care of the nails, hair, and teeth, and valuable information about tobacco and alcohol, and their effects on animals as well as people.

Mythology, Folk-lore, Legends, And Fairy Tales

This romance tells of the great Charlemagne, and of his warriors, Roland and Oliver and Ogier the Dane, all companions in arms. As James Baldwin states, Roland is unknown to history, yet he is the typical knight, the greatest hero of the Middle Ages. The story is culled from the song-writers and poets of five centuries and of as many languages.

From the many versions, Elder and Younger Edda, Volsunga Saga, and Nibelungen Lied, including modern sources, Mr. Baldwin has reshaped this ancient tale. Though he sometimes draws material from his own imagination, the essential parts of the myth remain unaltered.

The famous wanderings are retold from Virgil in simple language. Twelve illustrations in color accompany the text.

In a straightforward manner Mr. Church relates the incidents of the great siege. The volume contains twelve colored illustrations.

This second book of folk-lore is supplementary to Uncle Remus; His Songs and His Sayings, and gives a large number of additional myths and legends of the South.

In adding one more to the innumerable collections of stories from the Greek, I have hoped to break fresh ground by reproducing the myths of Pindar's Odes, as far as possible in a free translation, and with such additions only as were needed to form a framework. Some of these legends are already wholly or partly familiar, but several will be new, I think, to English readers.--Preface.

These old tales are rendered in exquisite language. They include, among others, the stories of (p. 126) Tantalus, the Heavenly Twins, Jason, and the Pansy Baby. The poet was bidden to prepare the Ode, from which this last story is taken, in honor of a friend's victory in the Olympic Games. The illustrations are in terra-cotta and black.

Telling more of Mowgli, the child of the jungle, and his brethren the wild creatures of the forest; together with other marvellous animal stories.

"Now these are the Laws of the Jungle, and many and mighty
are they;
But the head and the hoof of the Law and the haunch and
the hump is--Obey!"

It has been our aim in this book to reproduce the substance of Homer's Odyssey in simple modern English. We have not hesitated to omit and compress where we thought fit, but we have done our best to make a faithful translation within our limits, and to keep what we could of the Homeric spirit.--Preface.

Henry (p. 127) II and Queen Eleanor, the Lord Bishop of Hereford, the Sheriff of Nottingham, and Richard of the Lion's Heart, come forth from the land of mingled fact and fancy, with Robin Hood and his merry train, and live for us. While the text of this luxurious volume is dignified and somewhat archaic, children delight in reading it, nevertheless. There are many full-page illustrations.

Poetry, Collections Of Poetry And Prose, And Stories Adapted From Great Authors

Let it be understood that all I have attempted to do is to tell a well-known story in print, as one who loves it would seek to tell it in words to those around his own fireside; in the hope that some may gather from this story that there is a vast storehouse of humour and wisdom awaiting them in the book itself.--Preface.

"You see, of course, if you're not a dunce,
How it went to pieces all at once--
All at once, and nothing first--
Just as bubbles do when they burst."

Do we not most of us belong to the group "who at present know nothing or next to nothing of what is certainly one of the masterpieces of English literature"?

The imagination is the supreme intellectual faculty, and yet it is of all the one which receives least attention in our common systems of education.--Preface.

Religion And Ethics (p. 129)

This small volume presents a general view of the early history of the Jews, in accordance with the results of the best Biblical and historical criticism. In addition to the maps and illustrations, there are six full-page plates from famous paintings.

Science, Out-of-door Books, And Stories Of Animals

The Royal Institution of Great Britain each year provides at Christmas-time a course of lectures for children. In 1881 and 1887 Sir R.S. Ball (p. 130) gave talks on astronomy, and on them the present volume is founded.

Mr. Burroughs states that this book, which describes one hundred and fifty of our more common birds, is reliable, and is written in a vivacious strain by a real bird-lover, and should prove helpful and stimulating to any one who seeks by the aid of its pages to become better acquainted with our songsters. There are forty-eight plates in color.

Mrs. Doubleday has classified over five hundred flowers according to color, months of blooming, their preferred localities or habitats, and finally according to their proper families--by the classification adopted by the International Botanical Congress. Special attention has been given to the (p. 131) flowers' insect visitors. This large volume contains thirty-two pages of color plates, and forty-eight in black and white. Children learn so much from association with a book of this sort that it has been placed, because of the pictures, under a younger heading than the text alone would warrant.

Mr. Dugmore's very beautiful photographs in color from the living flowers, and the no less exquisite portraits from life in black and white by Mr. Troth, cannot but prove the most attractive, as they are the most useful, feature of this book.--Preface.

This wise old nature-lover tells us in his delightful way of the fox, mink, skunk, weasel, porcupine, muskrat, and other wild creatures. There are fifteen colored illustrations reduced from Audubon's large pictures.

A boy of eleven once asked me, in the midst of a schoolroom talk on the uses of participles, where a grasshopper's ears were.... I did not wonder that he found grasshoppers more interesting than participles--I do myself--and so, I am sure, do the young people for whom, most of all, this book has been written..--Preface.

Butterflies, moths, and insects, are described, and full directions for collecting, preserving, and studying (p. 132) them, given in this satisfactory volume, which contains many illustrations. A list of popular and scientific names is included.

Creatures mythical and real, extinct monsters and animals of to-day, dwell at peace within this book of many tales. Adventures of famous men, experiences of animal trainers, and stories of a quieter nature, are included.

To learn so easily and pleasantly about the wasp from an authority may keep boys from destroying their nests and wantonly annoying them.

A plain and easy guide to the knowledge of the constellations, showing, in twelve maps, the position for the United States of the principal star groups night after night throughout the year, with introduction and a separate explanation of each map.--Title-page.

Stories

Four boys cruise in a large rowboat up the Hudson River and on some of the Adirondack Lakes, camping out, and having many funny and exciting experiences.

This volume is given because of the first of these two stories, which is not published separately. It tells of the fishing experiences of four Scotch brothers, and shows how much plucky lads can accomplish. In An Adventure in Thule two boys (p. 134) discover a young Frenchwoman stranded on an island, and succeed in rescuing her.

An abundance of information about Greek life and customs is woven interestingly into the fabric of this tale. The battles of Marathon and Salamis are fought anew for the children by old men who were participants therein, and the Isthmian games are also described.

To Five

Six of us once, my darlings, played together
Beneath green boughs, which faded long ago,
Made merry in the golden summer weather,
Pelted each other with new-fallen snow.
* * * * *
So, darlings, take this little childish story,
In which some gleams of the old sunshine play,
And, as with careless hands you turn the pages,
Look back and smile, as here I smile to-day.

This account of the lively doings of the six little Carrs is full of action and interest. In the midst of her happy life poor Katy has to stop and learn, through the invalidism which comes as the result of an accident, the great lessons of patience, cheerfulness, and living for others. Happily, in the end, after her battle has been won, full health returns to her.

The illustrations are the result of a special trip to the island of Tobago, the scene of the great narrative, and are from sketches made on the island.

First published in 1865, and since translated into many languages, this book still stands as the picture of life in Holland to give to boys and girls.

School life in town and village of the Middle West, in 1850. First published in 1883, the story has retained popularity.

Rob and Nelly leave their New England home and journey with their parents to Colorado. There they have many interesting experiences in (p. 136) the silver mining country, which are told in Mrs. Jackson's charming natural style.

Fifteen-year-old Betty spends a happy and satisfactory summer at Tideshead with her two aged aunts, bringing brightness and pleasure into their quiet lives.

Phaeton was so inventive that he was always in hot water. Boys love to read of his pranks and pleasures.

The atmosphere of these eleven tales is decidedly English, but they are so unusually good that our children will read them with enjoyment notwithstanding the unfamiliar setting. The Thousand Threepenny Bits, The Anti-Burglars, and the uncommonly funny one called The Monkey's Revenge, are among the number.

As (p. 137) children we parents learned to love old Masterman, the faithful and resourceful friend of the good Seagraves. Even now our eyes grow a little misty as we think of his brave death.

Marryat began a continuation of The Swiss Family Robinson for his children, at their request, but its geographical anachronisms were too much for him, and he decided to write this story instead. No one will find fault with the change of plan.

This account of pioneer days is essentially true, having been gathered from family records which tell how, in 1811, "Parson Craig," with his wife, six children, and a number of friends, made the four-hundred-mile journey from North Carolina into Tennessee.

While this description of the life of two boys on a Southern plantation during the Civil War is dramatic and full of pathos, it is hardly necessary to say that Mr. Page, with his unerring touch, has not overdrawn a single detail of those days, happily long gone.

Every (p. 138) girl will love impulsive, careless Gypsy with her many faults and the many more winning qualities of her warm-hearted nature.

Wherever there is mischief, there is Gypsy. Yet, wherever there is fun, and health, and hope, and happiness--and I think, wherever there is truthfulness and generosity--there is Gypsy, too.--Preface.

Gypsy didn't want Joy to come and live with them at all, neither did she care for her at first, but through forbearance, gentleness, and Joy's great sorrow, they grew to love each other warmly.

The hero, midshipman on the Constellation, in the fight between that ship and the French frigate Vengeance, gave his life with notable bravery in the service of his country.

A faithful description of farm life among the hills of Western Massachusetts seventy-five years ago.

Before these times become wholly traditional, it seems good to picture them, as vividly as may be, for the benefit of the young folks who will grow up under influences differing so widely from those that shaped the (p. 139) youth of their ancestors.... They, and such as they, made the old New England the New England of glorious history and memories.--Preface.

Little girls of our own country will enjoy reading these three sketches which tell of faithful Gypsy Mairi of Scotland, English Molly of Sussex, and Irish Maureen. Each one of the three is natural, lovable, and worth knowing.

This old-fashioned story of the country mouse and the city mouse possesses charm, and abounds in homely common-sense. Mothers, fortunately, no longer bring up their daughters in the foolish way in which Emily Proudie was reared. The second story is included only because there is no other edition of Pussy Willow.

An account of seven lads, who, after their father's death, help their brave little mother to keep the family together. Simply told; full of sterling common-sense and unselfish precept. The colored illustrations are delightful.

The (p. 140) staunch widow and her seven sons are an admirable object-lesson in faithfulness to the claims of small things. Quite inimitable is Mrs. O'Callaghan's Irish way of putting things, which furnishes the salt to the solid nutriment of the story.--The Nation.

Twelve Years of Age (p. 141)

Amusements And Handicraft

In the course of this camping story directions are given for making tents and other appurtenances of camp-life, bridges, windmills, ice-boats, sledges, et cetera. There are many illustrations.

Most of this very practical volume is devoted to the mistakes so familiar to those of us who have attempted photography. The short chapters are accompanied by pictures illustrating the failures described. Examples of twelve successful photographs and information with each about the plate and time of exposure will give encouragement to the beginner.

A fully illustrated little book which contains clear directions for weaving many sorts of baskets, mats, bags, and other small articles.

The use of dyes is taught, and information given about raffia, rattan, and other necessary materials. There is a chapter on caning chairs, and one by Neltje Blanchan on What the Basket Means to the Indian.

Biography, History, And Government

An exceedingly interesting scholarly account of the ancient Orientals--Egyptians, Hittites, Medes and Persians, Chinese, and others. Descriptions of their methods of writing and translations from manuscripts and tablets are given.

The brilliant career of Oliver Hazard Perry is simply presented. There is a detailed description of (p. 143) the Battle of Lake Erie, accompanied by diagrams, and illustrations from contemporary engravings.

Mrs. Waters speaks with authority, and this fully illustrated volume, prepared with her own little daughter in mind, will be enjoyed by art-loving children. Many anecdotes are related. The first part is devoted to Ancient Art, including Sculpture.

The story of our country from the Revolution to the beginning of the Civil War. Like the others of this series, it has maps and many illustrations.

Mrs. Custer gives us a picture, drawn from her own experiences, of garrison and camp life on the frontier. The book ends with brief mention of the battle of the Little Big Horn, of Sunday, June twenty-fifth, 1876, in which General Custer lost his life.

Its (p. 144)adaptation to the needs of children lies in its lively narrative form, and the picturesqueness of many of the scenes which it presents.--Introduction.

This volume, written with Dickens' own eight children in mind, now more than fifty years ago, holds the interest of the boys and girls of to-day as keenly as when it first appeared. The many excellent illustrations add to its attraction and value.

Permeated by the spirit of a broad and noble patriotism, and written in the interests of national peace, law, and good government, in regard to which it gives, very simply, much information. There are also chapters on voting, the proper use of the people's money, the ideal city and town, policemen and their duties, et cetera; all quite within the comprehension of a child. The book contains many illustrations.

Children will enjoy reading of the childhood days of Napoleon and his brothers and sisters, and of the school-boy life of this remarkable lad who grew up from poverty to become the most wonderful man of his time. Napoleon's experiences as a "king's scholar" in Paris, and as lieutenant of an artillery regiment, are also described. (p. 145) Madame Foa's work is historically accurate, and her style very interesting.

The second volume of Source Readers is, like the first, wholly made up of pieces written at the time of the events and incidents here described. The language is modernized wherever necessary.--Preface.

The character, as well as the deeds, of this remarkable man, whose life stands for faith, courage, and charity, is interestingly drawn. There are eight pictures in color.

Events in the early annals of this old city recounted in pleasant familiar fashion by a grandfather who visits the famous spots with the boys. Many illustrations help to make real the happenings described.

Although this story is professedly and confessedly a romance, history has been consulted at every point. Log-books, journals, and biographies, have been searched, especially the logs, journals, and letters, of Paul Jones himself. Much relating to him has been left out, but nothing of consequence has been put in that is not historically true. The language ascribed to him is, whenever possible, that used by him at the time, or afterward, in his letters and journals.--Introduction.

Brief accounts of the lives of some famous American commanders, many of them of the period from 1798 to 1815. Preble, Decatur, Somers, and Lawrence, are among the number. The book contains portraits.

"Flavius Josephus was born at Jerusalem A.D. 37.... His history of The Jewish War, which was finished A.D. 75, was undertaken at the command of Vespasian, and is a noble and pathetic narrative of events that had been witnessed by himself. His other important work, The Antiquities of the Jews, was finished about A.D. 93, and was an attempt to familiarize the Roman people with the early history of the Jews as it is recorded in the Scripture."

The (p. 147) following pages are ... a simplification of the story of the Jews as related by Josephus.... Josephus wrote his histories for the Romans, and we need not therefore wonder ... at his modifying and toning down the historical statements of the Mosaic records to recommend them to the prejudices of his readers.--Preface.

"When I was a boy I strongly desired to be a pirate.... In fact, I had a great desire to become what might be called a marine Robin Hood."

All boys will sympathize with this point of view, and will enjoy reading of Morgan, Blackbeard, Kidd, and many less famous or infamous men who sailed our coasts.

Fine Arts

This volume seems to the compiler of this List one of the few books on art which children will read (p. 148) with real enjoyment. It is not included with a view to having it take the place of a history of art, but to give a part of the information which old Vasari has handed down to us with such charm. The language is delightful, and we carry away some of the atmosphere of that sunny Italian period. It is a pity that we are not given illustrations photographed from the originals, instead of more or less modified drawings.

Geography, Travel, And Description

The manner of the return of the Polos long after they had been given up for dead, the subsequent adventures of Marco Polo, the incredulity with which his book of travels was received, the gradual and slow confirmation of the truth of his reports as later explorations penetrated the mysterious Orient, and the fact that he may be justly regarded as the founder of the geography of Asia, have all combined to give to his narrative a certain fascination, with which no other story of travel has been invested.--Preface.

This highly interesting account of the great explorer, his crossing of Greenland, and his Polar expedition, will enthrall young people as Farthest North did their elders.

In this good geographical reader the children are taken "upon a personally conducted tour through the most characteristic parts of the South American continent.... The book has the merit of being written from original sources of information. It comprises the observations of the author gathered in a trip of more than twenty-five thousand miles along the routes herein described. Most of the descriptions were written on the ground, and a very large number of the photographs were made by the author especially for this book."

Du Chaillu visited the Northern lands in winter, traveling overland to Nordkyn, living among the Lapps, and later going in a fishing-boat off the coast of Finmarken for cod.

Three (p. 150) chapters are devoted to the Loire country, and we are told of Normandy and Brittany, as well as other parts of France, including Paris. There is a sketch of boy and girl life which will make our young people glad of their freer environment. The twelve colored pictures add to the book's interest.

This account of Arctic exploration consists of a series of sketches of different Polar expeditions, from the days of Sir John Franklin to the Ziegler-Baldwin and other undertakings of 1902. Here children may read consecutively of Kane, Nordenskjöld, Greely, Nansen, and others, and acquire a general view of Polar discovery.

An interesting picture of this most interesting country. The Nile is fully described, and there are chapters on the people, the desert, and the monuments. The volume contains twelve plates in color.

To give a sailor's impressions of a sailor's life ... has been the aim. Neither exaggerating its hardships--they do not need it--nor highly coloring its delights, whatever those may be, the very plainest truth has been thought sufficient for the purpose in view.--Original Preface.

Many (p. 151) changes and improvements have come about since 1854, when this volume was written, but it is republished without alteration of the text, so as to give a picture of sailor days before the introduction of steam.

A series of brief accounts of some of the many peoples of the world, accompanied by authentic illustrations. The author is Professor of Anthropology in the University of Chicago.

Mythology, Folk-lore, Legends, And Fairy Tales

Hawthorne, (p. 152) in his Wonder Book, has described the beautiful Greek myths and traditions, but no one has yet made similar use of the wondrous tales that gathered for more than a thousand years about the islands of the Atlantic deep.... The order of the tales in the present work follows roughly the order of development, giving first the legends which kept near the European shore, and then those which, like St. Brandan's or Antillia, were assigned to the open sea or, like Norumbega or the Isle of Demons, to the very coast of America.... Every tale in this book bears reference to some actual legend, followed more or less closely.--Preface.

This children's classic, with its pure and forceful English, is presented in an attractive manner. The full-page illustrations are in black and buff.

The Mabinogion, or Welsh legends of King Arthur, belong to a much earlier period than Malory. In this edition the original text is scrupulously preserved, except for necessary excision, and occasional condensation which is always placed in brackets.

"Thus lived and died the great Cid Campeador of Spain, most wonderful of heroes, who was never defeated, and who became the ancestor of kings."

Poetry, Collections Of Poetry And Prose, And Stories Adapted From Great Authors

Mr. Darton has so delightfully made real the times of Richard II, and has so well adapted the tales told by the immortal pilgrims, that we owe him a debt of thanks. I say we, for certainly we older people will enjoy them as much as our children. In retelling the tales in prose the editor has introduced material from Lydgate and others. Dr. Furnivall contributes an illuminating introduction, and Hugh Thomson's illustrations are, as usual, very satisfactory.

The following Tales are meant to be submitted to the young reader as an introduction to the study of Shakspeare, for which purpose his words are used whenever it seemed possible to bring them in; ... words introduced into our language since his time have been as far as possible avoided.... What these Tales shall have been to the young readers, that and much more it is the writers' wish that the true Plays of Shakspeare may prove to them in older years--enrichers of the fancy, strengtheners of virtue, a withdrawing from all selfish and mercenary thoughts, a lesson of all sweet and honourable thoughts and actions, to teach courtesy, benignity, generosity, humanity: for of examples, teaching these virtues, his pages are full.--Preface.

This edition of an English classic contains engraved portraits of Charles and Mary Lamb, after those in the National Portrait Gallery, and twenty full-page illustrations in color.

This (p. 155) attractive edition of Macaulay's famous poems contains, in addition, Ivry and The Armada.

To make good reading more attractive than bad, to give right direction to the choice, the growing intelligence of the child should be nourished with selected portions of the best literature, the virtue of which has been approved by long consent.--Preface.

Mrs. Wiggin tells us that she and her sister have searched the pages of the great English-speaking poets to find verses that children will love. The quest has been successful, for the collection gives us full measure of that which is among the best in English poetry. The selections are arranged under headings, such as The World Beautiful, For Home and Country, and In Merry Mood. One division is devoted to Christmas songs and carols.

Religion And Ethics

An exceptionally good book, describing as a connected narrative the events of Christ's life. The language is simple and dignified, and the words of the Gospel, whenever used, are given without variation. Fully illustrated from photographs of famous paintings.

Under three divisions, Kite Talks, Random Talks, and The Life I Ought to Live, Mr. Strong gives us practical, interesting, and helpful suggestions for leading broad spiritual lives of love and usefulness. Many anecdotes enliven the text.

Science, Out-of-door Books, And Stories Of Animals

These accounts of the wonders of modern science tell of liquid air, wireless telegraphy, X-Ray photography, and other marvels. There are many illustrations.

A careful observer and nature-lover gives us a familiar account of the wonderful lives of the little brook creatures. The insects mentioned in these pages are those of Alameda County, California, but members of the same families will be found in or beside almost any brook, East or West.

This book ...is an attempt, in the absence of any kindred elementary work, to narrate, in as simple language as the subject will permit, the story of man's progress from the unknown time of his early appearance upon the earth to the period from which writers of history ordinarily begin.... The First Part of this book describes the progress of man in material things, (p. 158) while the Second Part seeks to explain his mode of advance from lower to higher stages of religious belief.--Preface.

The subject of this volume seems a little appalling for children, but it is treated in so remarkable a manner and with such simplicity that the book should be in the hands of all young people. It is not surprising to learn that it has been translated into many languages.

Children of inquiring minds will find in this tiny volume expert answers to their questions about the earth and its wonders.

Dr. Holland, Director of the Carnegie Museum, Pittsburgh, has given us an authoritative account of (p. 159) the butterfly-life of North America north of Mexico, and at the same time has kept this book entirely within the comprehension of the unscientific nature-lover. Directions are given for the capture, preparation, and preservation, of specimens. There are forty-eight pages of color plates, reproducing more than a thousand North American butterflies, and several hundred black and white text illustrations.

Waves, tides, and currents, early exploration, war-ships and naval battles, merchantmen, yachts and yachting, marine industries, and the animal life of the ocean, are all discussed in this good-sized, fully illustrated volume.

A simple treatise on electricity and its uses in connection with the telephone, telegraph, electric light, et cetera.

How few thoughtful parents have not been perplexed by the question of when and how best to tell their children the great truths of the beginning (p. 160) and development of life in the world of nature. Miss Morley is well qualified to treat this most difficult subject, which she does delicately and reverently, from a scientific standpoint. As there is so great a difference of opinion as to the advisability of giving books of this nature to adolescent boys and girls, it is strongly recommended that this one be carefully read beforehand by the parent.

Directions for making simple electrical appliances, such as batteries and electric bells.

The illustrations which accompany these descriptions of the mammals of North America north of Mexico comprise six plates in color from paintings (p. 161) by A.B. Dugmore, and ninety-four half-tones from remarkable photographs from life by Messrs. Dugmore, Carlin, Beebe, and other expert nature-photographers. Some of the photographs were taken in the New York and Washington Zoölogical Parks, and some in the open.

Stories

Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy, are as great favorites with the girls of this generation as they were with their mothers. The book gives a picture drawn from the youthful days of Miss Alcott and her sisters, and its sweet natural home atmosphere and high standards make it one that should be read by every little woman of to-day.

"This is the story of a bad boy. Well, not such a very bad, but a pretty bad boy; and I ought to know, for I am, or rather I was, that boy myself."

This (p. 162) much loved volume should be put in the hands of every American lad. Mr. Frost's illustrations are delightfully sympathetic.

A sweet fresh tale of the days when Will Shakspere trod the boards. Little Nicholas Attwood joins a company of actors, and the head player, dubbing him Master Skylark because of his wonderful voice, takes him with them to London against his will. Good Master Shakspere, however, helps him in time of need, and little Nick gets safely home again to his mother in Stratford town.

This eighteenth-century Colonial narrative gives a vivid description of Roger's Rangers. The (p. 163) Rangers were for the most part New Hampshire frontiersmen.

The sequel to What Katy Did tells of the boarding-school days of Katy and Clover Carr. While the story is interesting and amusing, it is at the same time an advantage to any girl to make the acquaintance of these two delightful sisters, with their simple honorable standards.

"The incidents of this tale occurred between the years 1740 and 1745. ...Broad belts of the virgin wilderness ...affording forest covers to the noiseless moccasin of the native warrior, as he trod the secret and bloody war-path."

Cooper's style is, according to present-day standards, somewhat pompous and stilted, but all boys should read this account of the New York settlers' warfare against the Iroquois and know Deerslayer, the picturesque frontiersman.

The adventures of five boys on a trip down the Mississippi at the time of a great flood. The tone of the book is manly.

Elizabeth's aunt brings home from Europe various tiny symbols relating to different famous places, buildings, and paintings. The legends connected with them are told to a group of eager girls.

This Arab tale of a Bedouin boy of many years ago is so instinct with splendid patriotism that it is difficult to characterize it as sad, though in the end Kanana gives up his life for Allah and Arabia. A graphic picture of Oriental life, full of exciting experiences.

The one great story of school-boy life, telling of days at Rugby under the famous Dr. Arnold, and revealing the spiritual influence of a great master.

The scene of these stirring adventures is laid in Mexico of the present day, and the heroes, a little band of plucky men, penetrate to the heart of an unknown Aztec city. The well-written narrative is so full of exciting happenings that it is a favorable substitute for the ordinary sensational volume in which many boys find delight.

An indulged lad, the son of rich parents, falls overboard from a transatlantic steamer and is rescued by the crew of a fishing-smack off the Banks of Newfoundland. The boy has to stay with the men and make himself useful until the fishing season is over. The hardy life of the sea makes a man of him by the time he is restored to his parents.

"Now Aprile is over and melted the snow,
And outer Noo Bedford we shortly must tow;
Yes, out o' Noo Bedford we shortly must clear,
We're the whalers that never see wheat in the ear."

A vivid picture of Norwegian life of the eighteenth century. Full of action and interest, and conveying much information as to Northern ways and customs in such a manner that it becomes a part of the story.

The description of a successful, yet unsuccessful, search for buried treasure in the streets of New York will satisfy in a harmless way the desire which all normal boys have for books of this character.

The exciting experiences of a French lad during the settlement of Florida by France in the sixteenth century. Many incidents hinge on the faithful friendship existing between a young Indian and the hero.

A historical story of the time of Henry IV, giving an account of the training and knighting of Myles Falworth, and of his struggle as champion for his old blind father in the ordeal by battle; of Prince Hal, and the wild hard days that bred fighting men.

This charming picture of child-life on an Irish estate was highly commended by Ruskin in these words: There is a quite lovely little book just come out about children, Castle Blair!... The book is good, and lovely, and true, having the best description of a noble child in it (Winnie) that I ever read; and nearly the best description of the next best thing--a noble dog.

A further account of farm life in Western Massachusetts begun in Jolly Good Times at Hackmatack.

To fear God, do your duty, tell the truth, and be industrious--this was the New England ideal; and until we can replace it by a better, we can hardly afford to belittle it.--Preface.

This simply-told story presents in a charming way a sketch of French life in the reign of Louis XII. It tells of how little Gabriel helped Brother Stephen to illuminate a wonderful Book of Hours for the King to give as a wedding gift to Anne of Brittany, (p. 169) and of the happiness that came to the faithful workers therefrom.

A tale of two French lads, the sons of the Countess of Viteau, who lived in the rude days of Louis IX. Many of the duties and pleasures of mediæval life are incidentally described.

These adventures of two New England boys in Alaska and the Northwest Territory are based on real happenings. The scenery of the region is described, and useful information given about the Klondike, and its flora and fauna.

The iron star was a meteor, whose story is that of the ages from the days of the Cavemen to the time of Miles Standish.

This never-was-but-might-have-been story is truly one "for young people of all ages." It tells of the exchange of station which occurred between young Edward Prince of Wales and Tom Canty the (p. 170) beggar's son. Tom grows to like the stately life, but the noble young prince learns many a bitter truth about his realm. We are glad for both boys when the latter, now King Edward VI, comes to his own again. The author follows closely the life and customs of the day.

In spite of the main incident and its consequences being historically factitious, the tale presents a vivid picture of the young King and his people, and the London of that time.

Thirteen Years of Age (p. 171)

Amusements And Handicraft

A comprehensive little book on a subject about which all boys are anxious to know something. There are many illustrations.

Uncle Robert explains arithmetical puzzles, and card and other tricks. There are suggestions for celebrating the different holidays, and two children's plays are given.

Biography, History, And Government (p. 172)

The achievements of nineteen women of note are briefly recounted. Among the number are Harriet Beecher Stowe, Maria Mitchell, Madame de Stael, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, and Florence Nightingale. An encouraging book for ambitious girls.

The Father of History tells us of Croesus, his war with and defeat by the Persians; of Cyrus and his triumphs; of certain kings of Egypt and the manners of the people; of Cambyses and the Persian conquest; of the False Smerdis; and of Darius, lord of all Asia.

This (p. 173) standard work gives a general account of the North American Indian, and of our various wars with the different tribes to recent times. There are maps and many illustrations.

Every American should know the history of the Netherlands, the fatherland of millions of Americans and the storehouse of precedents in federal government from which those who made our nation borrowed most freely. Nowhere in Europe, except in England, can one find the origin of so much that is deepest and best in our national life--including the highest jewel of civilization, religious liberty--as in Holland, as John Adams and Benjamin Franklin long ago confessed.--Preface.

The satisfactory illustrations to this excellent book are taken from old prints.

This volume relates chiefly to the first half of the nineteenth century. Our grandfathers and even our fathers passed lives full of interest and of unusual incidents: the school, the field, the forest, the hunt, the stagecoach, and the steamboat, are already remote from our present generation.... Special pains have been taken to illustrate the remarkable life of the Western frontier, now fast becoming a tradition.--Preface.

Girls will enjoy the informal letters, describing the customs and costumes at the English Court, as well as those of our own land.

There are many histories of our country to choose from, but none is more satisfactory for young people than this, with its choice language and interesting style. It contains maps and numerous illustrations.

It will be noticed that less space than usual is given, in these pages, to the events of war, and more to the affairs of peace. This course has been deliberately pursued.... Times of peace, the proverb says, have few historians; but this may be more the fault of the historians than of the times.--Preface.

These tales, which retain to a considerable extent the archaic style of the original, will interest only the exceptional boy or girl.

The (p. 175) careers of successful business men who had aims beyond mere money-getting. Among those told of are Elihu Burritt, Henry Bessemer, Sir William Phips, and Ezra Cornell.

This well-known book gives the history of Scotland from the earliest period to the close of the reign of James V.

The present work has been slightly abridged by the omission of detailed descriptions of some of the more barbarous cruelties of those times and other unimportant matter. The story unimpaired has been given in Scott's own language.--Preface.

A reliable conservative biography. It is not only a historical portrait, but a picture of eighteenth-century colonial life in Virginia.

Twelve articles describing the life and duties of the servants of the nation. Among the subjects included are The Presidency, by Roosevelt; The Life of a Senator, by Lodge; How Jack Lives, by Long; Good Manners and Diplomacy, by Day; The American Post Office, by Wilson.

White, J.S. (Editor).

The Boys' and Girls' Plutarch.
Putnam. 1.75

Plutarch wrote a hundred books and was never dull. Most of these have been lost, but the portions which remain have found, with the exception of Holy Writ, more readers through eighteen centuries than the works of any other writer of ancient times.--Introduction.

If any substitute for a full translation is desired, this abridgment will serve. It is illustrated.

Wright, H.C.

Children's Stories of the Great Scientists.
Scribner. 1.25

Miss Wright's language is picturesque and interesting. These sixteen chapters on the famous scientists from Galileo to Darwin and Huxley will fascinate intelligent children.

Zimmern, Alice.

Greek History for Young Readers.
Longmans. 1.00

A (p. 177) simple, scholarly history; the English excellent. There are maps and many uncommonly good illustrations.

Fine Arts

Where gripinge grefes the hart would wounde,
And dolefulle dumps the mynde oppresse,
There musicke with her silver-sound<
With spede is wont to send redresse.

Attributed to Richard Edwards.

Champlin, J.D.

The Young Folks' Cyclopædia of Literature and Art.
Holt. 3.00

In this an attempt has been made to give a brief account of the acknowledged masterpieces in literature and in art, the latter term being understood to include architecture, sculpture, painting, and music.--Preface.

Short descriptions of great books, popular fairy tales, notable characters and objects in fiction, celebrated buildings, statues, pictures, and operas, are included in this fully illustrated volume.

Geography, Travel, And Description

When all the world is young, lad,
And all the trees are green;
And every goose a swan, lad,
And every lass a queen:
Then hey for boot and horse, lad,
And round the world away;
Young blood must have its course, lad,
And every dog his day.

Kingsley.

Dana, R.H. (p. 178)

Two Years Before the Mast.
Houghton. 1.00

It does not often happen that a young man of twenty-five writes a book which becomes a classic in the language.... Yet this is the history of Dana's Two Years before the Mast.--Biographical Sketch.

The author, a boy of nineteen, left Harvard College in 1834 and shipped as a sailor, hoping by this open-air life to cure a serious weakness of the eyes. He sailed around Cape Horn, coasted along the California shore, and returned home by the same route.

Eastman, C.A.

Indian Boyhood.
Illustrated by E. L. Blumenschein.
Doubleday. 1.60

Dr. Eastman is himself a Sioux, and this account is the record of his own youth among this wild people when their warriors went on the warpath against the "Big Knives," and his highest ambition was to join them.

Finnemore, John.

India.
Illustrated by Mortimer Menpes.
Macmillan. .75

We journey to the court of a native prince, travel through the bazaars, and visit village, jungle, and even the great Himalayas themselves. The book is particularly interesting, because India is less well known to young people than many other lands. Of the twelve colored pictures, two (p. 179) are specially good,--a tailor at work, and a Sikh warrior.

Finnemore, John.

Japan.
Illustrated by Ella du Cane.
Macmillan. .75

The volume is devoted rather to the habits, manners, and customs, of this wonderful people than to a description of the country itself. Boy and girl life, games, feast-days, the occupations of a Japanese day, the police, and the soldier, are told about in an entertaining manner. There are eight plates in color.

Jenks, Tudor.

The Boy's Book of Explorations.
Doubleday. 2.00

A satisfactory introduction to exploration in general, and a comprehensive account of the travel and discovery of recent times in Africa, Asia, and Australia. The journeys of Livingstone, Stanley, and many other well-known African explorers, are related; Rockhill's adventures in Tibet; the experiences of Hedin and Landor; and the opening up of Australia. The beauty of Livingstone's character is dwelt upon. Maps and many illustrations add to the book's value.

Lang, John.

The Story of Captain Cook.
Dutton. .50

A brief life of England's great explorer, giving details of his three famous voyages and his tragic end. There are eight pictures in color.

Lee, Yan Phou. (p. 180)

When I was a Boy in China.
Lothrop. .75

This informing sketch of Chinese boyhood is by a native who left home at the age of twelve years to be educated in the United States.

Parkman, Francis.

The Oregon Trail.
Illustrated by Frederic Remington.
Little. 2.00

Valuable not only as literature, but in that it gives the personal experiences of an intelligent observer in crossing the plains, long before the building of a trans-continental railway. Parkman made this trip in 1846.

The Wild West is tamed, and its savage charms have withered. If this book can help to keep their memory alive, it will have done its part. It has found a powerful helper in the pencil of Mr. Remington, whose pictures are as full of truth as of spirit, for they are the work of one who knew the prairies and the mountains before irresistible commonplace had subdued them.--Preface to the Illustrated Edition.

Plummer, M.W.

Roy and Ray in Canada.
Holt. 1.75

"This companion volume to Roy and Ray in Mexico embodies much that is interesting concerning Canadian history, manners, and customs.... The book will be useful as a travel guide, but it is primarily intended to cover a hitherto neglected field for children." Illustrated from photographs, with map, and words and music of Canadian national songs.

Our (p. 181) old friends Roy and Ray enjoyed their trip through Eastern Canada, and so will the boys and girls who join them on their travels.

Starr, Frederick.

American Indians.
Heath. .45

Mr. Starr, an acknowledged authority, tells us of many different Indian tribes; their language, customs, picture-writing, dances, and ceremonies. The author has himself had acquaintance with some thirty tribes. The book is very fully and satisfactorily illustrated.

Mythology, Folk-lore, Legends, And Fairy Tales

Those that Hobgoblin call you and sweet Puck,
You do their work, and they shall have good luck.

Shakspere.

Kipling, Rudyard.

Puck of Pook's Hill.
Illustrated by Arthur Rackham.
Doubleday. 1.50

To Dan and Una, sitting, on Midsummer's Eve, in the old fairy ring, appears Puck. By his magic power on this and succeeding visits incidents based on events in Old England's history are told to the children by those who shared in them. A series of remarkable stories, alternating with even more remarkable poems. The average child will better enjoy hearing them read aloud, as (p. 182) they presuppose a fuller knowledge of English history than most American children are likely to possess. Mr. Rackham's pictures in color are fine work.

Poetry, Collections Of Poetry And Prose, And Stories Adapted From Great Authors

Olympian bards who sung
Divine ideas below,
Which always find us young
And always keep us so.

Emerson.

Lang, Andrew.

The Blue Poetry Book.
Longmans. 2.00

The Editor trusts that this book may be a guide into romance and fairy-land to many children.... By way of lending no aid to what is called Education, very few notes have been added. The child does not want everything to be explained; in the unexplained is great pleasure. Nothing, perhaps, crushes the love of poetry more surely and swiftly than the use of poems as schoolbooks.--Introduction.

This excellent collection, for the most part British verse, contains a large proportion of Scotch songs and ballads. The productions of contemporary poets are not included.

Lanier, Sidney.

The Boy's Percy.
Scribner. 2.00

Old (p. 183) Ballads of War, Adventure, and Love, from Bishop Thomas Percy's Reliques of Ancient English Poetry.--Title-page.

But, passing far beyond the plans of these small antiquarian pleasures, Percy's book immediately enriched our whole ordinary existence by making common property of those golden figures which the undying ballad-maker had enameled into the solid tissue of English life.... Each ballad is given here exactly as it stands in the original except that the spelling has been modernized and such parts cut away as cleanliness required.--Introduction.

Norton, C. E. (Editor).

Heart of Oak Books. Volume VI.
Masterpieces of Literature.
Heath. .55

The worth of the masterpieces of any art increases with use and familiarity of association. They grow fresher by custom; and the love of them deepens in proportion to the time we have known them, and to the memories with which they have become invested.--Preface.

Repplier, Agnes (Editor).

A Book of Famous Verse.
Houghton. 1.25

In selecting these few poems I have had no other motive than to give pleasure to the children who may read them; and I have tried to study their tastes, and feelings, and desires.--Introduction.

Though issued in 1892, Miss Repplier's excellent collection still holds its own among the very best, because of the high quality and interest of the poems chosen. The little book is of a most convenient size to carry about with one.

Religion And Ethics(p. 184)

Who is the happy Warrior? Who is he
That every man in arms should wish to be?
--It is the generous Spirit, who, when brought
Among the tasks of real life, hath wrought
Upon the plan that pleased his boyish thought:
Whose high endeavors are an inward light
That makes the path before him always bright.

Wordsworth.

Carruth, W. H.

Letters to American Boys.
American Unitarian Association. .80

Uncle William (who in real life is Vice Chancellor of the University of Kansas) has a series of clear-headed talks with the boys on reading, sports, manners, various professions, and politics. He is never patronizing, and always has the boy's point of view in mind.

Gillie, R. C.

The Kinsfolk and Friends of Jesus.
Macmillan. 2.25

This sequel to The Story of Stories, is told in simple language. The illustrations, part of them in color, are from famous paintings.

Science, Out-of-door Books, And Stories Of Animals (p. 185)

Science is, like virtue, its own exceeding great reward.

Kingsley.

Baker, R. S.

Boy's Second Book of Inventions.
Doubleday. 1.60

This second volume is like unto the first in giving accounts of recent marvellous discoveries and inventions, such as radium, flying machines, and the seismograph, used in the measurement of earthquakes. It is fully illustrated.

Blanchan, Neltje (Pseudonym of Mrs. N.B. (DEG.) Doubleday).

Birds That Hunt and Are Hunted.
Doubleday. 2.00

Illustrated with full-page color plates. Non-technical. Birds grouped according to size and color; no specific color key. Rather full biographies. There are chapters giving the characteristics of the families, the habitats, and the seasons of occurrence.

Audubon Society.

One hundred and seventy birds of prey, game birds, and water-fowls, are described. The color plates are forty-eight in number.

Dickerson, M.C.

The Frog Book.
Doubleday. 4.00

"The (p. 186) original manuscript for this book concerned Toads and Frogs of Northeastern North America only.... Brief accounts of the species of other parts of North America were added later."

There are sixteen pages of color plates and nearly three hundred half-tones from photographs from life by the author. The wonderful transformation of the tadpole is fully described.

Good, Arthur.

Magical Experiments.
McKay. 1.25

Some of the wonders here described are intended merely for amusement, others are of a scientific character and designed to act as an introduction to the study of Physics. No apparatus is needed beyond the simple articles, such as knives, forks, and plates, which every household possesses. The book is instructive and entertaining alike to experimenter and observer.

Heilprin, Angelo.

The Animal Life of Our Sea-shore.
Lippincott. 1.25

An authoritative manual, prepared with special reference to the New Jersey coast and the Southern shore of Long Island. It is fully illustrated.

Howard, L.O.

The Insect Book.
Doubleday. 3.00

Dr. Howard, Chief of the Division of Entomology, United States Department of Agriculture, (p. 187) and the foremost authority in this country, gives us full life-histories of the bees, wasps, ants, grasshoppers, flies, and other North American insects--exclusive of the butterflies, moths, and beetles. A separate section is devoted to the subject of collecting and preserving the different specimens. There are sixteen pages of color plates, thirty-two pages of half-tones, and about three hundred black and white text illustrations.

Moffett, Cleveland.

Careers of Danger and Daring.
Century. 1.50

Vivid accounts of the courage and achievements of steeple-climbers, deep-sea divers, balloonists, ocean and river pilots, bridge-builders, firemen, acrobats, wild-beast trainers, locomotive engineers, and the men who handle dynamite.

Carnegie Library Of Pittsburgh.

Morley, M. W.

Grasshopper Land.
McClurg. 1.25

Not only the grasshoppers but other family members of the Orthoptera are here described, including mantes, walking-sticks, katydids, and crickets. There is a long and interesting account of locusts and their migrations. The text illustrations are many and satisfactory.

The poetry of earth is never dead:
When all the birds are faint with the hot sun,
And hide in cooling trees, a voice will run
From hedge to hedge about the new-mown mead.
That (p. 188) is the grasshopper's--he takes the lead
In summer luxury--he has never done
With his delights, for when tired out with fun,
He rests at ease beneath some pleasant weed.

Keats.

Parsons, F.T. (S.) (formerly Mrs. W.S. Dana).

How to Know the Wild Flowers.
Scribner. 2.00

Every flower-lover who has spent weary hours puzzling over a botanical key in the efforts to name unknown plants will welcome this satisfactory book, which stands ready to lead him to the desired knowledge by a royal road. The book is well fitted to the need of many who have no botanical knowledge and yet are interested in wild flowers.--The Nation.

The primary characteristic of this guide to the names, haunts, and habits, of our common wild flowers is that, in moderate compass, it groups and describes them under their different colors. This arrangement was suggested by a passage in one of John Burroughs's Talks about Flowers. There are indices to the Latin and English names and to technical terms. The forty-eight full-page colored and one hundred and ten black and white illustrations are of value.

St. John, T.M.

Real Electric Toy-Making for Boys.
St. John. 1.00

Sufficient directions for making and using many simple electric toys.

Shaler, N.S. (p. 189)

A First Book in Geology.
Heath. .60

It is difficult to see how this subject could be made more interesting to beginners. The fully illustrated volume is of a handy size to be carried on geological tramps.

Stories

The first time I read an excellent book, it is to me just as if I had gained a new friend. When I read over a book I have perused before, it resembles the meeting with an old one.

Goldsmith.

Alcott, L.M.

Little Men.
Illustrated by R.B. Birch.
Little. 2.00

This sequel to Little Women tells of the home school which Jo and her husband loved and worked for, and from which they sent out into the world, as men, the boys who had sorely needed their loving care.

Barbour, R.H.

For the Honor of the School.
Appleton. 1.50

A satisfactory account of modern boarding-school life. Its standards are good and its tone healthy and sound. There are descriptions of a cross-country race, a foot-ball game, a base-ball match, and interscholastic track athletics. Lads, however, enjoy the writings of this author to such an (p. 190) extent that many, doubtless, read them to the exclusion of more worthy books.

Barbour, R.H.

Four in Camp.
Appleton. 1.50

The compiler of this List believes that young people as well as old occasionally wish for light literature. This story of vacation days spent in a summer camp for boys in the New Hampshire woods is pleasantly diverting. Its standards make for self-control, courage, honesty, and good-fellowship.

Church, A.J.

A Young Macedonian in the Army of Alexander the Great.
Putnam. 1.25

Young folks of today will like to read of the lad who took part in the great struggle between Macedonia and Persia. Alexander's visit to Jerusalem, recorded by Josephus, is related, and mention is made of Demosthenes and Diogenes.

Cooper, J.F.

The Pilot.
Houghton. 1.00

From the boy's point of view, any legitimate need for concealment gives an added charm to a narrative, and this account of the secret expedition of John Paul Jones to the English coast is no exception.

Cooper, J.F. (p. 191)

The Spy.
Houghton. 1.00

Story of the Revolution and the "neutral grounds" around White Plains. The hero, the spy, is a cool, shrewd, fearless man, who is employed by General Washington in service which involves great personal hazard.

Carnegie Library Of Pittsburgh.

Cotes, S.J. (D.).

The Story of Sonny Sahib.
Appleton. 1.00

The experiences of a little English boy saved, when a baby, by his ayah, at the time of the Cawnpore Massacre, and brought up at the court of the Maharajah of Lalpore. Learning that the English are about to attack the city, Sonny seeks his countrymen, refusing however to give any information in regard to the Maharajah's defenses. In the camp he finds his father, Colonel Starr.

Dix, B.M.

Merrylips.
Macmillan. 1.50

The adventures of a little Cavalier maiden during the civil wars that led to the establishment of Cromwell. Merrylips, who had always wished to be a lad, is obliged to wander in the disguise of boy's clothing, and through her experiences learns to prefer to be herself, Mistress Sybil Venner. In all her vicissitudes she proves herself a steadfast servant of the King. While the book pictures the rude times of war, the charm of womanliness is emphasized throughout.

Dix, B. M. (p. 192)

Soldier Rigdale.
Macmillan. 1.50

An account of Mayflower days and the founding of the Plymouth colony. Miles Rigdale and little Dolly lose both mother and father. Dolly is brought up by Mistress Brewster, while Miles finally goes to live with Captain Standish. This faithful relation of the privations our ancestors endured ends with the arrival of the ship Fortune with reinforcements for the colony.

Ewing, J. H.

Jackanapes.
Daddy Darwin's Dovecot.
The Story of a Short Life.
With a sketch of her life by her sister, H.K.F. Gatty.
Little. .50

°Jackanapes.

We love the golden-haired army baby who lived to fight and die with glory for Old England. The atmosphere of the tale is most charming.

Daddy Darwin's Dovecot.

In the beautiful English country dwell old Daddy Darwin and Jack March, the little workhouse boy. A delightful anecdote is told about the pigeons, of whom Jack says, "I love them tumblers as if they was my own."

°The Story Of A Short Life.

The inspiring story of the life of a boy--a short life filled with glorious bravery. This English army sketch is so sad that it should be read by the parent before deciding to give it to a child.

French, Allen. (p. 193)

Heroes of Iceland.
Little. 1.50

Iceland in the tenth century is pictured for us in this adaptation from Sir George Webbe Dasent's translation of The Story of Burnt Njal--the Njal's Saga. It was this century that saw the change of faith of a brave heathen people.

But at the same time, during their long winters, the Icelanders wrote the tales of their own early times, which are still too little known. This book contains the greatest of them, a saga or story which is to be compared, in interest and beauty, with the great epics of the earlier races.--Preface.

The affectionate fellowship of two boys, the son of the owner of a mill and the son of one of the workmen. A mill strike is the principal incident of this wholesome story.

The incidents of the book are real ones, drawn in part from the writer's personal experiences and observations, as a soldier of the Union, during that war. He is also indebted, to many comrades for reminiscences of battle and prison life.--Preface.

The simple bravery of this boy-soldier will stimulate the latent courage and patriotism of the boys of our day. They will like the scene where Dick and Jed join the army as drummer-boys, taking (p. 194) with them Mink, Jed's "awful nice dog," who could do all sorts of cunning tricks.

A narrative of the experiences of two little boys in the Pennsylvania coal mines. The sketch, which treats of an unusual subject and is full of stirring interest, took the first prize, offered by The Youth's Companion.

The story of Philip Nolan was written in the darkest period of the Civil War, to show what love of country is.--Introduction.

Nolan cursed his native land and wished that he might never hear of her again, and for fifty years his wish was fulfilled.

An account of Colorado sheep-raising which will interest boys greatly, especially as there is a tale of hidden gold interwoven with that of Western life.

This (p. 195) description of a Georgia boy's adventures during the Civil War gives an unexaggerated picture of plantation life.

Polly was a staunch little Maine girl of the long-ago days. She held an important trust sacred for many years, proving herself of sterling worth.

This exciting narrative of Colonial days tells of the notorious pirate Blackbeard and also of the kidnapping and transporting from England to the Southern colonies which was so common during the first half of the eighteenth century. A thread of romance runs through the story.

Stevenson's fascinating tale of adventure is already a classic. Nothing of the sort, perhaps, since Robinson Crusoe, has so appealed to both old boys and young ones.

A good picture of boy and girl life on an Arkansas plantation. An absurd Ku-klux incident and an exciting experience with counterfeiters add to the volume's interest.

With photographic illustrations of great interest. There is just enough story to hold together the very entertaining chapters of adventure--"based in part upon the experiences of that unfortunate expedition which, on board the steamer Miranda, came to grief off the coast of Greenland in the Summer of 1894." Manners and customs, flora and fauna, Eskimos and cameras, icebergs and polar bears, make this a capital book for boys and boys' sisters.--The Nation.

Most of the adventures recorded in this book really occurred; one or two were experiences of my own, the rest those of boys who were schoolmates of mine. Huck Finn is drawn from life; Tom Sawyer also, but not from an individual--he is a combination of the characteristics of three boys whom I knew, and therefore belongs to the composite order of architecture. The odd superstitions touched upon were all prevalent among children and slaves in the West at the period of this story.--Preface.

Boys love it, and broad-minded parents will put the volume in their children's hands before they borrow it.

Two sisters--ambitious in the best sense--by means of exertion manage, by boarding themselves, to attend Merton Academy for one term. A (p. 197) good picture of this phase of New England life of long ago. The tale is said to have a foundation of fact.

Polly bravely takes care of her invalid mother, and later when left alone helps to support herself by her beautiful gift for story-telling. The book has a bright and helpful influence.

Rebecca is a quaint and lovable girl whose nature, full of enthusiasm, originality, and imagination, charms all who encounter her. Mrs. Wiggin's delightful sense of humor pervades the sketch.

Little five-year-old Ann is made the bound girl of Samuel Wales, of Braintree. After some hard experiences Ann tries to run away, but in time she learns to love the really kind-hearted people to whose care she has fallen, and in the end becomes the adopted daughter of Mrs. Polly Wales. The Squire's Sixpence is a simple school story of long-ago days.

Fourteen Years of Age(p. 198)

"God gives thee youth but once. Keep thou
The Childlike heart that will His kingdom be;
The soul pure-eyed that, wisdom-led, e'en now
His blessed face shall see."

Amusements And Handicraft

This volume contains directions for work much of which is beyond the capacity of a boy of fourteen, but it is well for him to have something to which he can look forward. Instructions are given in wood-carving, metal-work, clay-modelling, bookbinding, and other occupations. The making of simple household articles and the use of paints are taught. There are many working diagrams.

An excellent handybook which provides the necessary information for making many worthwhile articles (p. 199) in which boys delight, such as windmills, water-wheels, aeroplanes, boats, rafts, toboggans, and snow-shoes; illustrated with working diagrams. There are also directions for camping out. The compiler of this List hopes that the article on trapping small animals may be passed over, as the little creatures so often suffer in boyish attempts to catch them.

This book is addressed particularly to those amateurs who, while they acquire their chief pleasure from the pictures as pictures, have sufficient respect for the study and a strong enough purpose toward good work to seek real knowledge of the elements of photography.--Preface.

Mr. Black gives a brief history of the development of the art, and much thorough information for those ambitious to learn. The text is perhaps somewhat advanced for young people of fourteen.

Biography, History, And Government

While not intended primarily for children, this book will be both enjoyed and appreciated by many boys and girls of fourteen. The illustrations are taken, to a great extent, from old sources.

The (p. 201) careers of eighteen well-known men of letters are described. Among the number are Emerson, Prescott, Hawthorne, Higginson, Gilder, and Clemens.

It is, in short, a well-written and entertaining history of the War of the Rebellion, very fair and impartial in tone.--The Nation.

A mature boy or girl of fourteen will find this reliable work useful. The larger part of the illustrations are taken from contemporary drawings, and there are many maps.

Twenty famous musicians are very interestingly characterized; among them Palestrina, Mozart, Rossini, Mendelssohn-Bartholdy, and Wagner.

The War Diary of a Union Woman in the South, edited by G. W. Cable, relates experiences of the Siege of Vicksburg. Among other accounts there is a description of Mosby's guerillas, and the tunnel escape from Libby Prison is told by one of the Union officers who got away and was retaken.

Notwithstanding its brevity, this autobiography has doubtless been a greater incentive to ambitious boys than any other. It is perhaps worth noting that a prominent Japanese merchant of Boston, when a boy in his native land, after reading the book, determined to seek his fortune in Franklin's country, and testifies to it as one of the chief factors in his successful career. This useful edition contains a sketch of the great man's life from the point where his own writing ends, drawn chiefly from his letters. There are notes and a chronological historical table.

This fourth volume of Source Readers attempts to put before teachers and children the actualities of the Civil War period. It contains something of the spirit of North and South at the beginning of the war, and much about the life of the soldier and the citizen while it was going on, with some of the battle smoke and dust.... In this book the fathers are speaking to their children.--Preface.

An account of Miss Larcom's youth up to the age of twenty-nine, which includes her experiences as a Lowell mill-hand. It is not only a record of the (p. 203) efforts of an aspiring young woman, but a picture of one phase of New England life.

This little work was prepared at the suggestion of Captain S. B. Luce, U. S. N., the commander of the training-ship Minnesota. Desirous of having it correct in every particular, I submitted the manuscript to the Navy Department. It was returned to me with a letter from Commodore Earl English, U. S. N., Chief of the Bureau of Equipment and Recruiting, to whom it was referred, in which he wrote: I am much pleased with your beautiful and instructive Story of the Navy, and I congratulate you on having performed a labor which will contribute so much to the pleasure and instruction of the youth of our country. Such a bright-spirited work will refresh the memory of the noble deeds of our departed naval heroes in the minds of the people.--Preface.

In the present issue the book contains several fresh chapters, an entirely new series of colored maps, many new illustrations, and carefully selected lists of books for further reading at the end of each chapter, together with suggested topics for special study. The new text brings the narration of events down to the Peace of Portsmouth and the elections to the first Russian Parliament, and aims to include all the latest important results of discovery and scholarly research in the different historical fields and periods.--Preface.

This biography, condensed from Nicolay and Hay's Short Life of Lincoln, in part rewritten, is the best of the many prepared for young readers.

The compiler knows of no altogether satisfactory history of this country for young people. The present volume, prepared for school use, is very informing and will serve. It ends with the humiliation of a great people, and the Treaty of Peace made at Portsmouth in 1905. There are maps and illustrations.

Drama

The (p. 205) Tragedie of Julius Cæsar was first published in the Folio of 1623.... The date at which the drama was written has been variously fixed by the critics....Halliwell has shown that it was written "in or before the year 1601." ... The only source from which Shakespeare appears to have derived his materials was Sir Thomas North's version of Plutarch's Lives.... Shakespeare has in this play and elsewhere shown the same penetration into political character and the springs of public events as into those of every-day life.--Introduction.

Macbeth was first printed in the folio of 1623.... It was written between 1604 and 1610.... Dr. Simon Forman ... saw the play performed "at the Globe, 1610, the 20th of April, Saturday." It may then have been a new play, but it is more probable, as nearly all the critics agree, that it was written in 1605 or 1606. The accession of James made Scottish subjects popular in England, and the tale of Macbeth and Banquo would be one of the first to be brought forward, as Banquo was held to be an ancestor of the new king. Shakespeare drew the materials for the plot of Macbeth from Holinshed's Chronicles of Englande, Scotlande, and Ireland.... The story of the drama is almost wholly apocryphal. The more authentic history is thus summarized by Sir Walter Scott: ... As a king, the tyrant so much exclaimed against was, in reality, a firm, just, and equitable prince.--Introduction.

The plot of The Merchant of Venice is composed of two distinct stories: that of the bond, and that of the caskets. Both these fables are found in the Gesta Romanorum, a Latin compilation of allegorical tales, which had been translated into English as early as the time of Henry VI.... The Merchant of Venice is one of Shakespeare's most perfect works: popular to an extraordinary degree.... Shylock the Jew is one of the inimitable masterpieces of characterization which are to be found only in Shakespeare.--Introduction.

Some people feel sure that it is a mistake to interfere with the play of a child's imagination by (p. 207) giving him illustrated editions of great works. This opinion would be shaken by seeing these wonderful pictures, by means of which we are indeed wafted to dreamland. There are forty plates in color, and other illustrations.

Fine Arts

The Riverside Art Series contains twelve small volumes on Ancient and Modern Art, of which four only are included in this limited list. The very satisfactory illustrations are taken from photographs, and the major part of each book is devoted to interpretations of the pictures. This volume contains sixteen examples of Greek marbles, with an introduction, which includes other information, on some characteristics of Greek sculpture.

Greek sculpture can be sympathetically understood only by catching something of the spirit which produced it. One must shake off the centuries and regard life with the childlike simplicity of the young world: one must give imagination free rein.--Introduction.

We (p. 208) are given fifteen pictures by this great man, and his portrait. There is an introduction on Michelangelo's character as an artist, an outline table of the principal events in his life, and a list of some of his famous Italian contemporaries, with other information.

This volume contains a collection of fifteen pictures and a portrait of himself by the master, an introduction on Raphael's character as an artist, an outline table of the principal events in his life, and a list of some of his famous contemporaries, as well as other information.

This book comprises sixteen examples of fifteenth-century work, with an introduction, also containing other information, on some characteristics of Tuscan sculpture of this period.

Geography, Travel, And Description

This abridgment of the original book tells in pleasant narrative style of the Sunbeam's voyage around the world, which lasted from July first, 1876, to May twenty-sixth, 1877.

We travel over the Alps, and through the country to Naples and Sicily. The wonderful cities of this historic land are described, and a brief account given of its many poor but happy people. There are twelve illustrations in color.

It has always seemed to me that the narratives of the early discoverers and explorers of the American coast were as interesting as Robinson Crusoe, and were, indeed, very much like it. This has led me to make a series of extracts from these narratives, selecting what appeared to me the most interesting parts, and altering only the spelling.... One great thing which I have wished my readers to learn is the charm of an original narrative.... The explorers of various nations are represented in this book. There are Northmen, Italians, Englishmen, Frenchmen, Spaniards, and Dutchmen.--Preface.

These original accounts cover the field of American exploration from the discovery of the country by the Northmen in 985 to the settlement of the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1629.

This very fully illustrated volume gives a conversational account of a trip through Great Britain, (p. 211) Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Russia. It is an excellent book for children to use while travelling. Mr. King has also prepared several about our own country.

Mr. Lummis describes the wonders of the Southwest,--the Grand Canon, the Petrified Forest of Arizona, and the Desert. He tells of the Moquis in their seven seldom visited Pueblo cities, of the Navajos and other Indian tribes, with their strange customs, dances, and magic.

Hygiene

The author in this volume has united metaphor with scientific facts.... She has laid under contribution the latest scientific authorities, and believes that this book will be found abreast of the science of to-day, holding ever to truth as it now presents itself, and never sacrificing facts to the allegory.--Preface.

Dr. Wood-Allen uses the simile of a house in explaining in a clear and interesting manner much about our body and its functions. Part Second (p. 212) is devoted to the articles we make use of: those which are beneficial, and especially those which are more or less harmful; as tea, coffee, tobacco, and alcohol.

Mythology, Folk-lore, Legends, And Fairy Tales

"I, Phœbus, sang those songs that gained so much renown,
I, Phœbus, sang them; Homer only wrote them down."

This book is an enlarged and revised edition of a book published, with the same title, by the late Thomas Bulfinch, of Boston, in the year 1855.... What Mr. Bulfinch wanted to do, and succeeded in doing, was to connect the old stories with modern literature. His book, therefore, not only interests young people in the classical authors, but it turns their attention to many of the best authors of their own language and of our time.--Preface.

In the revision the list of poets cited has been increased from forty to sixty-three, and the portion treating of Northern, Oriental, and Egyptian mythologies, rewritten. The illustrations are from classical sources.

(p. 213)Poetry, Collections Of Poetry And Prose, And Stories Adapted From Great Authors

The youth who shall become acquainted with the contents of these volumes will share in the common stock of the intellectual life of the race to which he belongs; and will have the door opened to him of all the vast and noble resources of that life.--Preface.

The ancient manners, the habits and customs of the aboriginal race by whom the Highlands of Scotland were inhabited, had always appeared to me peculiarly adapted to poetry. The change in their manners, too, had taken place almost within my own time, or at least I had learned many particulars concerning the ancient state of the Highlands from the old men of the last generation. I had always thought the old Scottish Gael highly adapted for poetical composition.... I had also read a great deal, seen much, and heard more, of that romantic country where I was in the habit of spending (p. 214) some time every Autumn; and the scenery of Loch Katrine was connected with the recollection of many a dear friend and merry expedition of former days. This poem, the action of which lay among scenes so beautiful and so deeply imprinted on my recollections, was a labor of love, and it was no less so to recall the manners and incidents introduced. The frequent custom of James IV, and particularly of James V, to walk through their kingdom in disguise, afforded me the hint of an incident which never fails to be interesting if managed with the slightest address or dexterity.--Introduction to the Edition of 1830.

The Lady of the Lake was first published in 1810. This edition has many notes by Mr. Rolfe.

The Poem, now offered to the Public, is intended to illustrate the customs and manners which anciently prevailed on the Borders of England and Scotland.... The date of the Tale itself is about the middle of the sixteenth century, when most of the personages actually flourished. The time occupied by the action is Three Nights and Three Days.--Original Preface.

The Lay of the Last Minstrel was first published in 1805. This edition has many notes by Mr. Rolfe.

The present story turns upon the private adventures of a fictitious character, but is called a Tale of Flodden Field, because the hero's fate is connected with that memorable (p. 215) defeat and the causes which led to it.... The poem opens about the commencement of August, and concludes with the defeat of Flodden, 9th September, 1513.--Original Preface.

Longfellow, Whittier, Bryant, Holmes, Lowell, and Emerson, are represented in this collection by poems with which every American boy and girl should be familiar. The volume, which has biographical sketches and notes by Mr. Scudder, was prepared in the interests of young people, to encourage in them a taste for the best literature. Evangeline, Snow-Bound, Sella, Grandmother's Story, The Vision of Sir Launfal, and The Adirondacks, are included in the contents.

Religion And Ethics

Hearing thy Master, or likewise the Preacher, wriggle not thyself, as seeming unable to contain thyself within thy skin.--Youth's Behaviour. 1643.

Brimful of well-balanced advice on making life helpful and pleasant to those around us and to ourselves by the avoidance of common errors and the encouraging of agreeable virtues. The (p. 216) familiar friendly style renders this book, which could so easily be made dull, really delightful to young people. How to Talk, How to Go into Society, How to Travel, Life in Vacation, and Habits of Reading, are some of the chapter headings.

Science, Out-of-door Books, And Stories Of Animals

A large part of this volume is somewhat beyond the grasp of the average boy of fourteen, and parents should look it over carefully before letting their children carry out the instructions, though we are told that "there need be no concern whatever as to possible danger if the book is read with reasonable intelligence. Mr. Adams has taken pains to place danger-signals wherever special precautions are advisable, and, as a father of boys who are constantly working with electricity in his laboratory, he may be relied upon as a safe and sure counsellor and guide."

Directions are given for making, among other things, push-buttons, switches, annunciators, dynamos, simple telephones, and line and wireless (p. 217) telegraphs. There is a chapter on electroplating. At the end of the volume is an article explaining electric light, heat, power, and traction, by J. B. Baker, technical editor, United States Geological Survey; also a dictionary of electrical terms. Many working diagrams are included.

There are thirty-three full-page plates by Mr. Fuertes, and over six hundred small illustrations. For the use of beginners a brief field color key to genera of some of the common Passerine birds is given in an appendix.

This is mainly a book about the birds, or more properly an invitation to the study of Ornithology.... I have reaped my harvest more in the woods than in the study; what I offer, in fact, is a careful and conscientious record of actual observations and experiences, and is (p. 218) true as it stands written, every word of it.... A more specific title for the volume would have suited me better, but not being able to satisfy myself in this direction, I cast about for a word thoroughly in the atmosphere and spirit of the book, which I hope I have found in "Wake-Robin"--the common name of the white Trillium, which blooms in all our woods, and which marks the arrival of all the birds.--Preface.

The titles of some of the different articles are: In the Hemlocks, The Adirondacks, Spring at the Capital, and The Bluebird.

Mr. Ditmars, Curator of Reptiles in the New York Zoölogical Park, gives us a comprehensive treatise on the structure and habits of the turtles, tortoises, crocodilians, lizards, and snakes, of the United States and Northern Mexico. There are eight pages of plates in color and one hundred and twenty-eight (p. 219) in black and white, from photographs from life, taken (with six exceptions) by the Author.

In the present work the writer has sought to compile a popular review of a great fauna--the Reptiles of North America. He has excluded technical phraseology and tried to produce two results: 1. A popular book, that may be comprehended by the beginner and, 2. A book valuable in its details to the technical worker.--Preface.

This rambler's calendar of fifty-two weeks among insects, birds, and flowers, is made attractive to young children by the unusual quality of the many illustrations.

It has been the aim of the author to give reliable information free from minute details and technicalities. That information has been, for the most part, gathered through personal experience in the mines.--Preface.

The composition and formation of coal, its discovery and introduction, are dealt with, and a description of the mine and its dangers, and the life of the workers therein, is given in this thoroughly satisfactory little volume.

Treated (p. 220) from a broad scientific standpoint, much interesting information is conveyed about the laws which, discovered comparatively recently, have proved of vital importance and utility to mankind. The humidity and pressure of the air, the velocity of the wind, rain and snow, sleet and hail-storms, tornadoes and cyclones, are among the many topics discussed.

An intelligent boy or girl of fourteen, with a real interest in the subject, will enjoy this fine work on the moths of North America north of Mexico, though it is written more from the standpoint of the student than are most of the series to which it belongs. There are fifteen hundred figures in the forty-eight colored plates, and three hundred black and white text figures, illustrating a majority of the larger species.

These two distinguished scientists have given in this treatise on ichthyology a popular account of the species found in America north of the Equator, with keys for ready identification, life-histories, and methods of capture. There are ten lithographed plates in color, and sixty-four in (p. 221) black and white from photographs from life taken by Mr. Dugmore, these being the first really successful photographs of live fish ever secured.

A guide to the identification of the trees of the United States, with three hundred and forty illustrations, more than half of them from photographs. The book is the work of one who is a tree-lover as well as a botanist, and besides being scientifically accurate the book has a distinct literary flavor. Invaluable as an aid to firsthand acquaintance with the trees.--Prentice and Power.

The object of this book is to tell some of the interesting facts concerning a few of the better known or more remarkable of these extinct inhabitants of the ancient world.--Introduction.

"Mr. Knight ... is the one modern artist who can picture prehistoric animals with artistic charm of presentation as well as with full scientific accuracy."

While Mr. Lucas did not, in this instance, write for children, they greatly enjoy his descriptions, and are captivated by Mr. Knight's pictures of the strange creatures. There is a very interesting chapter on The Ancestry of the Horse.

"Said (p. 222) the little Eohippus
I am going to be a horse
And on my middle finger-nails
To run my earthly course."

When a work, by an authority as eminent as Professor Newcomb, is interesting to young people, and is to a sufficient degree within their comprehension, it should certainly be put into their hands, even if, as in the present case, it was not specially prepared for them.

This companion to How to Know the Wild Flowers gives in convenient form a great deal of pleasantly told information as to the names, haunts, and habits, of our common ferns. They are arranged in six groups, the classification being based on the frond differences. In almost all cases the nomenclature of Gray's Manual has been followed, and in parentheses, that used in the Illustrated Flora of Britton and Brown is given. Indices to the Latin and English names and to technical terms are included. The many illustrations are helpful.

Every (p. 223) person interested in shells has felt the need of a manual of the shell-bearing animals of sea and land, comparable to the comprehensive manuals provided for those who wish to study birds or insects or trees.... The plan and nomenclature of this book follow the accepted standard, The Manual of Conchology, by Tryon and Pilsbry.--Preface.

Miss Rogers has made an extensive study of conchology on the east and west coasts of North America. The result is this popular guide to a knowledge of the families of living mollusks, which is also an aid to the identification of shells native and foreign. There is a chapter on the maintenance of aquariums and snaileries. Eight of the plates are in color, and ninety-six in black and white for the most part from photographs by A.R. Dugmore.

Most of this volume is devoted to teaching us in an interesting manner how to know the trees of North America. There are, in addition, articles on Forestry, The Uses of Wood, and The Life of the Trees. Sixteen of the plates are in color and one hundred and sixty in black and white from photographs by Mr. Dugmore.

Theoretical and practical information, together with complete directions for performing numerous experiments on wireless telegraphy with simple home-made apparatus.--Title-page.

These talks about our small animal neighbors are full of descriptive interest, and the accompanying black and white illustrations are beautiful.

Mr. Burroughs says: Of all the nature books of recent years, I look upon Mr. Sharp's as the best.

While this large volume gives much information in regard to the habits, intelligence, and usefulness, of those animals which have helped man's civilization forward, the text is not nearly as interesting as it might have been made. The many illustrations, however, are very satisfactory.

Stories

This diary of Reformation days is fictitious, but it serves to bring most vividly before us Luther and the men of his time.

Mrs. (p. 226) Gaskell's masterpiece, which Lord Houghton described as "the finest piece of humoristic description that has been added to British literature since Charles Lamb."

Calm and composure breathe from every page of this picture of life in a small English town during the first half of the nineteenth century. Have we not all in imagination visited Miss Jenkyns and Miss Matty, played preference at Miss Betty Barker's, and helped the Honorable Mrs. Jamieson into her sedan chair? Many girls of fourteen are quite able to appreciate the book's charm.

It will be strange indeed if these fascinating and romantic tales fail to stir the imagination of any young person who reads them and to arouse in him the laudable ambition of some day seeing for himself the three palaces, the mosque, the chapel, and the halls, of the marvellous Alhambra.

"The reader, if he has perused the volume of the Sketch Book, will probably recollect something of the Bracebridge family, with which I once passed a Christmas. I am now on another visit at the Hall, having been invited to a wedding which is shortly to take place.... The family mansion is an old manor-house, standing in a retired and beautiful part of Yorkshire. Its inhabitants have been always regarded through the surrounding country as 'the great ones of the earth,' and the little village near the hall looks up to the squire with almost feudal homage.... While sojourning in this stronghold of old fashions, it is my intention to make occasional sketches of the scenes and characters before me."

The success of Old Christmas has suggested the republication of its sequel Bracebridge Hall, illustrated by the same able pencil, but condensed so as to bring it within reasonable size and price.--Preface.

No one could be better fitted to depict the old customs of an English Christmas than Mr. Caldecott, and his pictures are a perfect accompaniment to this portion of Washington Irving's Sketch Book.

Five dollars seems to most of us a large sum to pay for a child's book, but after seeing Mr. Rackham's remarkable work I think we shall all agree that there can be no better way of spending our book-money than in purchasing this fine edition of the famous tale, with its fifty full-page pictures in color.

Boys, (p. 229) especially those with military tendencies, will enjoy Captain King's description of life at West Point.

A glorious tale of the voyages and adventures of Sir Amyas Leigh, a Devon knight of Elizabethan days.

Scott's masterpiece contains, within the compass of a single volume, sufficient material for five or six books of romance. Incident follows upon incident, and holds the reader, young or old, with entranced attention. The period is that of King Richard I.

The tragic Elizabethan story of Leicester and Amy Robsart. It is not beyond the comprehension of most young people of fourteen.

Being Memoirs of the Adventures of David Balfour in the Year 1751: How he was Kidnapped and Cast away; his Sufferings in a Desert Isle; his Journey in the Wild Highlands; his acquaintance with Alan Breck Stewart and other notorious Highland Jacobites; with all that he Suffered at the hands of his Uncle, Ebenezer Balfour of Shaws, falsely so-called.--Title-page.

In this sequel to The Orcutt Girls Sue continues her education, doing a little literary work meanwhile. Instead of writing, however, as she had planned, her happy marriage opens the way for home occupations. The thread of pleasant romance will, of course, add to the book's attraction for girl readers.

The thrilling adventures of a young trapper in the Labrador and Ungava regions. Incidentally much (p. 231) information is given in an interesting way. Mr. Wallace is well qualified from personal experience to write of this Northern country.

It is only partially true to call this story a sad one, for it is filled from cover to cover with the Christ-like spirit of love and helpfulness. It tells of little Carol Bird, a patient crippled child, who brought sunshine to all those about her, and who touches every heart. The account of the Christmas dinner which Carol herself gave for the nine little Ruggles children is very amusing. After the happy day, while Christmas hymns were sounding, the dear little girl slipped away to her "ain countree."

Life in the rude days of the Emperor Maximilian I, with scenes in burgh and castle. Under a woman's influence, Schloss Adlerstein is changed from a robber stronghold to an abode of peace.

Author and Title Index (p. 233)

May this volume continue in motion,
And its pages each day be unfurl'd,
Till an ant has drunk up the ocean,
Or a tortoise has crawl'd round the world.